Richmond Castle: Kalutara’s Colonial-Era Masterpiece

A 19th-Century Palace with a Tragic Love Story

Hidden amidst 42 acres of lush gardens along the Kalu Ganga, this 1890 mansion is:

• Sri Lanka’s finest Edwardian-style manor – Built with imported materials
• Surrounded by working plantations – Rubber, coconut, and spice trees
• Shrouded in legend – Built for a bride who never saw its completion

Why History & Architecture Lovers Visit

A Tale of Two Worlds

• Scottish castle inspiration meets tropical adaptation
• Original features: Stained glass, teak paneling, and a ballroom
• Mysterious past: Owner Arthur Silva died bankrupt after his fiancée abandoned him

Grounds & Gardens

• Century-old trees: Including a giant Java fig
• Riverfront pavilion: Perfect sunset views over Kalu Ganga
• Herb garden: With medicinal plants mentioned in colonial records

Visitor Experience

1. Must-See Interior Highlights

• Grand Staircase: Carved from single jackfruit trees
• Dining Room: Set with original Wedgwood china
• Secret Passage: Rumored to lead to the river

2. Outdoor Exploration

• Plantation Walk: See rubber-tapping demonstrations
• Birdwatching: Spot hornbills and paradise flycatchers

3. Nearby Attractions

• Kalutara Bodhiya (5-min drive) – Sacred hollow stupa
• Kalu Ganga Boat Tours (10-min walk)

Visitor Tips

Hours: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)

Entry Fee: ~LKR 500 (Guides available)

Photography: Permitted (No flash indoors)

Access: Turn left after Kalutara Bodhiya (clear signage)

Local Insights

Hidden Gem: The "Lovers’ Bench" where Silva allegedly waited for his bride

Best Time: December when the gardens bloom

Book a Kalutara Heritage Tour!

Combine with other colonial sites: srilankatourhelp.org

Did You Know? The castle’s 99 windows symbolize Silva’s unfinished love story—he died before installing the 100th.