Matara is a coastal town which is located in southern province of Sri Lanka. Although rich in history and culture, Matara has not been in the typical tourist route. That is why we take pride in being the first to showcase this historic gem to you. In the 16th century the Portuguese got opportunities to erect their construction under the permission of King Dharmapala. But Matara was not occupied by Portuguese until after the arrival of Dutch. In 1640 the Dutch captured Matara from the Portuguese and in 1645 they were responsible for the construction of the current fortification. This was one of the only colonial forts that was invaded and destroyed by the Kandyan Kingdom way back in 1761.
During the British occupation, the Courts Complex (including the Magistrate Court, Police Court, Minor Court and the High Court), Rest House, Mission School and Methodist Church were constructed as a part of refortifying the formerly destroyed fortress.
Your host will meet you at the entrance to the Matara Elephant Fort. Then we traverse by foot learning about the story of the Matara Fort and its importance in Sri Lankan history. We learn about how the Matara Fort is known as a peninsula fort which one side is bordering the ocean and on the other bordering the lake. We also understand how the Matara Fort was pivotal during the days of the Dutch and British for Cinnamon and Elephant trade. During the tour you will also get the rare privilege of visiting a few locals houses and understanding what it means to be living in an ancient fortress.
