The area’s history dates back to the arrival of Indian Prince Vijaya, some 2,500 years ago, when his vessel washed ashore north side of the Puttalam lagoon. The area has a tropical savanna climate, from which it experiences a short dry season from June to September and a second dry season from January to March. The wet season occurs mainly between October and December. Long off the tourist map, Puttalam is known to be a quieter and more secluded part of the island, with kind and hospitable people and is conveniently close to Wilpattu National Park and the stunning beaches and sand dunes of Kalpitiya. Its largest city is Anamaduwa. Rocky outcrops, ancient temples, large lakes for kayaking and endless paddy fields make up the landscape here.