Matara Fort
Explore Matara Fort, a unique star-shaped Dutch fortress offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past and architectural ingenuity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Matara Fort
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Matara Fort, a unique star-shaped Dutch fortress offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past and architectural ingenuity.
"A must-visit spot when in Matara for history lovers and photography enthusiasts!"
📸 Capture the Star Shape
Get an aerial view or find a vantage point to truly appreciate the fort's unique star design.
🚶♂️ Explore the Moat
Walk around the perimeter to see the moat and understand the fort's defensive strategy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Star-Shaped Architecture
Matara Fort
Explore the unique six-pointed star design, built for strategic defense. A true architectural marvel!
Dutch Colonial Heritage
Matara Fort
Step back in time within the well-preserved walls, imagining life during Dutch rule. A historical gem.
The Dutch Reformed Church
Inside Matara Fort
Discover one of Sri Lanka's oldest Protestant churches, a testament to colonial religious influence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Matara Fort
Exploring Matara's Star Fort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Star Shape
Get an aerial view or find a vantage point to truly appreciate the fort's unique star design.
🚶♂️ Explore the Moat
Walk around the perimeter to see the moat and understand the fort's defensive strategy.
☕️ Relax at a Nearby Cafe
Enjoy the charming atmosphere of cafes like The Dutchman's Street after your fort visit. 
📚 Visit the Museum
The fort houses a museum showcasing artifacts from its historical past.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Star Shape
Get an aerial view or find a vantage point to truly appreciate the fort's unique star design.
🚶♂️ Explore the Moat
Walk around the perimeter to see the moat and understand the fort's defensive strategy.
☕️ Relax at a Nearby Cafe
Enjoy the charming atmosphere of cafes like The Dutchman's Street after your fort visit.
📚 Visit the Museum
The fort houses a museum showcasing artifacts from its historical past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matara Fort is praised for its unique star-shaped architecture and well-preserved Dutch colonial heritage. Visitors appreciate the historical insights and the peaceful atmosphere. While it's a relatively quick visit, the fort offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.
"Tharaka Kotuwa, also known as the Star Fort, is a small Dutch-built fortress located on the eastern bank of the Nilwala River in Matara, Sri Lanka. It was constructed between 1763 and 1765 by the Dutch, soon after they regained control of Matara following the Matara Rebellion of 1761, when the local forces captured the main fort.
To strengthen the city’s inland defenses, the Dutch Governor Van Eck ordered the building of this new fort, which was named Redoute Van Eck in his honour. The fort has a six-pointed star shape, designed to fire cannons in all directions, and is surrounded by a moat. Its thick granite and coral walls, two prison cells, central well, and drainage system showcase excellent 18th-century military engineering.
When the British took over Ceylon in 1796, the fort lost its military importance and was used for administrative work. Later, it became a public library and was then taken over by the Department of Archaeology. Major restoration work was done in the 1980s, and today the fort is preserved as a historical monument and museum.
Standing as one of the last forts built by the Dutch in Sri Lanka, Tharaka Kotuwa remains a proud symbol of Matara’s colonial heritage and architectural beauty."
Michelle Jayasundera
"Tharaka Kotuwa in Matara is a fascinating historical site with unique star-shaped architecture. The fort is well-preserved and offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Walking around the fort, you can explore its moat, cannons, and old prison cells, all while enjoying peaceful surroundings. The site is perfect for history lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone interested in cultural heritage. A must-visit spot when in Matara!"
Ashen Jayasooriya
"Matara Fort, built by the Dutch is a 220-meter-long, 12-meter-thick, 54.6-meter-high rampart facing land side. On all other sides, it is unprotected apart from the natural barrier of the water. All the Dutch administrative buildings were inside the fort. The Dutch Reformed Church is of particular interest today."
Nishan Weerasooriya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matara Fort is easily accessible by road. If you're coming from Colombo, you can take a bus or a train to Matara. From the Matara bus stand, the fort is a short walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride away. Many travelers find it convenient to visit as part of a larger Southern Province tour.
Yes, Matara Fort is located in the heart of Matara city, near the Nilwala River. It's a prominent landmark, and locals are generally helpful if you need directions.
There is limited parking available near the fort. It's advisable to check local conditions upon arrival, or consider parking a bit further away and walking.
Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient way to get around Matara, including to and from the fort. Negotiate your fare beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Matara Fort is generally free, though there might be a small fee for the museum section. It's always a good idea to check for any updated entry requirements upon arrival.
Matara Fort is typically open during daylight hours. The museum inside may have specific operating times, so it's best to visit during the day to explore fully.
While the fort grounds are usually free to access, there might be a nominal fee to enter the museum within the fort. This helps support the preservation efforts.
Matara Fort is generally accessible on public holidays, but it's advisable to confirm opening hours beforehand, as they can sometimes vary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring Matara Fort, including the museum. It's a relatively compact site, perfect for a quick historical immersion.
Inside Matara Fort, you can see the star-shaped ramparts, cannons, prison cells, a central well, and the Dutch Reformed Church. The museum offers historical artifacts.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the fort's grounds and learning about its history. The open spaces are good for them to run around.
While official guided tours might not always be available, you can often find local guides near the fort who can provide insights into its history.
Try to capture the star shape from different angles. The morning light is often best for photography. Don't forget to photograph the architectural details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several charming cafes and restaurants near Matara Fort, including 'The Dutchman's Street,' offering a pleasant dining experience with coastal views.
You can find a mix of local Sri Lankan cuisine and international dishes at the cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of the fort.
Dining options range from budget-friendly local eateries to more upscale cafes. 'The Dutchman's Street' offers a charming, mid-range experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts offer great views, and finding a higher vantage point can help showcase the fort's star shape. The Dutch Reformed Church also makes for beautiful shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Matara Fort. However, always be respectful of any signage or local customs.
The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer the best light for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities within the fort itself might be limited. The nearby cafes offer family-friendly dining options. Visiting in the morning can help avoid the hottest part of the day, making the experience more comfortable for younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing the textures of the old walls, the strategic placement of cannons, and the architectural details of the Dutch Reformed Church. The surrounding moat and the coastal light can add dramatic flair to your photos. Early morning or late afternoon light will offer the best results.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to explore the ramparts, prison cells, and the museum. Understanding the fort's strategic importance and its role in the colonial era will greatly enhance your visit. Reading up on the Dutch period in Sri Lanka beforehand can add depth to your experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Matara Fort (Tharaka Kotuwa)
After the British took over Ceylon in 1796, the fort's military importance waned, and it transitioned to administrative use. It later served as a public library before being taken over by the Department of Archaeology. Significant restoration efforts in the 1980s helped preserve its historical integrity. Today, Matara Fort stands as one of the last Dutch forts built in Sri Lanka, a proud symbol of Matara's colonial heritage and architectural prowess. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts keen to understand Sri Lanka's past.
Beyond its military past, the fort area has evolved. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore its historical sites and learn about the colonial history of the southern region. The fort area is also adjacent to charming cafes and shops, offering a blend of historical exploration and modern leisure.
+1Architectural Significance and Design
Inside the fort, remnants of its past are evident. You can explore the prison cells, imagine the strategic importance of the central well for water supply during sieges, and observe the drainage system, all indicative of sophisticated 18th-century engineering. The presence of the Dutch Reformed Church within the fort grounds further emphasizes its historical role, serving not only as a military outpost but also as a center for religious life during the colonial era.
While the fort's primary function was military, its architecture also reflects a blend of European design principles with the practicalities of the local environment. The preservation efforts have maintained much of its original character, making it a valuable site for understanding colonial-era fortifications in Sri Lanka. Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere and the tangible sense of history that permeates the site.
Exploring the Surroundings and Modern Attractions
+1These modern establishments often incorporate elements of the area's colonial charm into their decor, creating a cohesive experience for visitors. You can enjoy local Sri Lankan cuisine or international fare while soaking in the coastal atmosphere. This blend of historical exploration and contemporary leisure makes Matara Fort a well-rounded destination.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the fort, Matara itself is a vibrant coastal city with other attractions. Visitors can explore nearby beaches like Polhena Beach, visit the iconic Parey Dewa (Pigeon Island), or marvel at the impressive statue at Weherahena Temple, making Matara Fort a great starting point for a broader exploration of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit