Sanjula Ransinghe

5.0

Richmond Castle is one of the most beautiful and historically rich places I’ve visited in Sri Lanka. The architecture, inspired by an Indian mansion, is stunning with its intricate woodwork, large windows, and elegant design. The entire property feels peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery and a calm atmosphere. The tour inside the mansion is well-organized, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. They share fascinating stories about the history of the castle and its original owner, Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. It truly feels like stepping back in time. The gardens are well maintained, making it a perfect spot for photography and a relaxing walk. The entrance fee is reasonable, and the experience is absolutely worth it. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Kalutara—whether you love history, architecture, or simply want a quiet, scenic place to explore.

K.G.R Thilina Buddhika Kahagalla

5.0

Richmond Castle in Kalutara, Sri Lanka, is a magnificent colonial-era mansion built in the early 1900s by Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena, a wealthy landowner and philanthropist. Inspired by the palace of an Indian Maharaja yet resembling an English manor, the castle is a rare blend of British, Dutch, and Indian architectural styles. The mansion is famous for its 99 doors and 34 windows, with beautifully designed glass panels depicting vines, and its interiors include a grand dance hall with a stage, ornate sculptures, and intricate carvings that reflect the opulence of the time. Two shiploads of teak imported from Burma were used in its construction, and the woodwork remains remarkably fresh even today. The castle is surrounded by 42 acres of lush gardens, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and scenic views. As a symbol of Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage, Richmond Castle provides a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of the early 20th century, making it a cultural treasure and a popular tourist attraction. Its, historical significance, and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect destination for those interested in history, photography, and a serene escape from the bustle of Kalutara town.

Maduka

5.0

visited Richmond Castle in Kalutara around mid-morning, which turned out to be the perfect time. The grounds were peaceful, with soft sunlight filtering through the trees, enhancing the beauty of the colonial architecture. This early 1900s mansion, once the home of a wealthy Sri Lankan philanthropist, is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic design, with intricately carved woodwork, stained glass windows from Scotland, and a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences

Vikasitha Ranasinghe

5.0

As of April 2026 Once a beautiful castle, now worn down by time and neglect. Visitors now can't enter the second floor of the castle due to the unstable situation of the ceiling of the castle. It's very sad to see this beautiful architectural work deteriorating day by day due to negligence. Authorities should step in and maintain this place before it collapses down. Great service provided by the staff of the castle, they explain the complete history of the castle and its importance while showing all around the castle. Need to purchase a ticket at the entrance. As of April 2026, it's 100 LKR per local adult.

Yasangi Ruhunage

5.0

We visited Richmond Castle over the weekend, and it was a really interesting experience. You have to buy tickets at the entrance, and once you step inside, the architecture immediately catches your eye. The place has a unique charm and a lot of history behind it. If you enjoy old buildings and stories from the past, you’ll definitely find it worth the visit. The castle is quite old and a bit fragile, so you need to be careful when walking around. Overall, it’s a spot I’d say everyone should check out at least once.