Richmond Castle in Kalutara

What?
This is a grand Edwardian mansion built in the early 20th century, featuring intricate architecture and lush gardens.

Where?
It is located in the Kalutara district and approximately 40 km from Colombo.

When?
It can be visited all year long, though mornings offer a quieter experience.

The castle is a hybrid of Indian and British architecture. Originally, it was a spice plantation mansion, built for a wealthy governor, Padikara Mudaliyar, who copied the plans of an Indian Maharaja’s palace that was designed by a British architect. The house was left to a local school after his death, but now the gardens are open to the public. The grounds offer a good canoeing or a bike trek.