Mathara

Matara historically belongs to the area that is called Ruhuna, which was one of the three kingdoms in Sri Lanka (Thun Sinhalaya තුන් සිංහලය). The temple in the middle of the town is also built by ancient kings, and now it is a very popular sacred place among the Buddhists in the area. In the 16th and 18th centuries, Matara was ruled by the Portuguese and the Dutch respectively. The culture and architecture can still be seen in the area. The popular light house in Point Dondra was built by the Dutch, and it is considered as one of the most beautiful and oldest light houses in Sri Lanka. The two fortresses that were built by the Portuguese and the Dutch can be found inside the city. Other important works by the Dutch are the St Marie's church and the market place in Nupe junction.

Polhena Beach

Polhena, Matara's beach area is 2 km away from the city center. There anybody can swim safely for it is naturally fenced with coral. The river Nilwala which runs through the city falls into the sea at Totamuna, which is also a part of the city. The Crow Island is a small island facing the beach and it is a spectacular sight with its greenery filled with trees.