Kalutara is famous for its colourful, soft basketry. At the Basket Centre in the middle of the village, the local weavers tame the unyielding palm fronds, turning them into purses, coasters, hats and other items. The unyielding and stubborn thorny Watekeiyya palm leaves are skillfully transformed into patterned mats, purses, lampshades and linen baskets. Many other wares are woven from coconut fibre.