The Dutch Canal, also known as Hamilton Canal, was built by the Portuguese in the 1700s to connect Puttalam and Colombo. This route was used by the Dutch administration to transport pearls, cinnamon and spices to Colombo, back in the day.
At present, the canal is widely popular among tourists for boat riding, which will provide you views of houses, old churches, and the authentic lifestyle of the people in these fishing villages.
The best time to visit is in the morning to witness the fishing boats bringing their harvest to the fish market.