Beruwala

An early Arab trading port turned beach resort.

What makes Beruwala.

Beruwala is one of the oldest Muslim settlements on the island, founded by Arab traders around the tenth century, and its hilltop Kechimalai Mosque still overlooks the harbour. Today it is a quiet beach-resort town just north of Bentota, with a long sandy bay, a busy working fishing harbour and a gem-trading heritage that gave the area its 'gem town' nickname. The calm shallow waters suit relaxed swimming, and the nearby Barberyn (Beruwala) lighthouse marks the reef offshore. It is an easy, less-trodden alternative to Bentota with the same quick access to Colombo and the south.

An early Arab trading port turned beach resort.

November – April (south-west dry season)Best time
6Spots to see
~200KVisitors / year

What to see

Where to explore in Beruwala.

The landmarks and corners worth carving out time for. Each one a reason this place earns its place on the route.

01
Kechimalai Mosque
A historic hilltop mosque above the harbour marking an early Arab trading settlement.
02
Beruwala Beach
A long, calm sandy bay popular for relaxed swimming and resort stays.
03
Beruwala fishing harbour
A busy working harbour where the colourful fleet lands the morning catch.
04
Barberyn Lighthouse
A picturesque island lighthouse marking the reef just off the bay.
05
Kande Vihara temple
A hilltop temple nearby crowned by one of the island's largest seated Buddhas.
06
Moonstone mines (Meetiyagoda)
Traditional moonstone pits and gem workshops a short drive down the coast.