Matara is a colorful beach city having rich history of ancient inheritance and colonialism. Matara is said to possess a rich diversity of landscapes and old history, there are bustling markets, beautiful beaches and tranquil temples. The bustling city central business district has buildings that are modern and growing in the business sector but some buildings such as the Dutch Star Fort and Paravi Duwa Temple testify the historical and colonial background of the city. The cultural experience is the most fulfilling and the most valuable one in Matara, the historical sites of Weherahena Buddhist Temple and Kushta Raja Gala.

Matara does not merely concern its urban centers but it is a place where convention and real life have been merged in perfect blend. Other aspects of everyday life in the city include traditional festivals, warm hospitality and the local markets. Foods like rice and curry, hoppers and Ceylon tea are among the food available in the city that is very tasty and world favorites. Other economic contributors in the economic performance of Matara in southern Sri Lanka are agriculture, tourism and emerging technologies and services industries.

Matara is the name of the nature and tranquility. There are pretty beaches that are within the vicinity of the city, national parks and idyllic small beaches like Polhena Beach. Tourists have the option of visiting the Paravi Duwa Temple on its offshore island bridged in to it, relax in beaches such as the ones found in neighboring Mirissa and Unawatuna or to see foggy hills and falls in the area. Matara has complex traditions and inter-cultural unity and hence, colorful cultural and religious festivals are held throughout the year and thus, it is a fascinating tourist destination to the world.