The Gangatilaka Vihara is a Buddhist temple at the northern entrance to Kalutara, immediately south of the bridge over the Kalu Ganga river. It is one of the few Buddhist monuments along this stretch of the coast and one of the most visited sights in the district.
The large white stupa — the Kalutara Chaitya — stands at the river's edge and can be seen from the bridge. What distinguishes it from most Sri Lankan stupas is that it is hollow: a chamber inside is open to visitors, who can enter to find a shrine with Buddha images and a space for meditation. The interior is cool and quiet despite the busy road outside.
Beside the stupa, a large Bodhi tree (the Kalutara Bodhiya) is venerated by Buddhists as a sacred fig with a lineage traceable to the original tree under which the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Both the stupa and the Bodhi tree are active places of worship; remove shoes before entering the temple compound and dress modestly.