Bentota is a paradise for holidaymakers, with its golden beaches fringing lush landscapes and calm aura… Bentota is in the Galle District of the Southern Province, 65 km (40 mi) south of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city. Check out what makes Bentota a one of a kind travel spot.
Unveiling Bentota’s Charm
The stunning beaches of Bentota are well regarded for their southern coast of Sri Lanka. Bentota Beach is the most unique feature of the town having soft, golden sand, and crystal clear water. Its sun soaks, waters soothe and a host of watersports nourish it a paradise for both sunseekers and adventure junkies.
Water Sports and Activities
Bentota is a haven for water sports. The town is located across the Bentota River, providing perfect places for those wanting to jet ski, windsurf and go on banana rides. There are also numerous dive sites from coral reefs with exotic fish and old wrecks which make good diving here so interesting for diving enthusiasts. Plus, in the November to April season Bentota offers calm waters ideal for snorkeling and diving.
We offer Ayurvedic Wellness and Spa Treatments.
Bentota is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments as Sri Lanka is. Many resorts and health centers provide authentic Ayurvedic wellness programs, which along with personalized treatments, yoga classes and herbal massages are an excellent introduction to the benefits of Ayurveda. They are formulated to rejuvenate both body and mind, and to enrich the full holiday experience.
Local Cuisine: A Taste of Sri Lanka
A visit to Bentota is exquisite culinary journey as well itself. The wide variety of dishes reflects a delightful fusion of these influences: Dutch, Portuguese and South Indian. Fresh seafoods will appeal to the seafood lover, and you will have to struggle to beat the local restaurants to dishes such as crab curry and ambul thiyal (sour fish curry). Visitors can also join cooking classes, to learn how to prepare those traditional dishes in a truly local experience.
Attractions and excursions, cultural.
Apart from being a naturally and culinarily attracting destination, Bentota is home to various cultural and historical spots, too. Next to the Kalawewa Reservoir is the Galapata Vihara, a Buddhist temple that bears what are thought to be the most complete murals in the country dating from the 12th century and a large reclining Buddha statue. Visitors can also visit the Brief Garden, designed by Bevis Bawa, the Sri Lankan landscape architect who is widely known. An exotic plant garden with imaginative sculptures, this garden is a work of art and fully manicured.
Eco-Tourism and Wildlife
Eco tourism too is something in which Bentota is an ideal spot. Bentota River Safari gives you an opportunity to explore mangrove forests and spy a variety of wildlife which includes water monitors and many varieties of birds. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery provides a learning experience on turtle conservation and for a small fee also to release hatchlings in to the sea.
We work with the attendees to ensure everyone is comfortable, whether they nap in a couch, a bathroom, a hotel room, or a bed. A conference is not for everyone, and it may not be for you.
Bentota does have a range of accommodation from the luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels which aim to please everyone’s tastes and budget. The Indian Ocean or the Bentota River-view most properties’ view is very peaceful. Bentota is accessible by road from Colombo – the scenic coastal railway from Colombo to Bentota is also very popular with anyone who wants to enjoy the stunning scenery en route.
This is The Best Places to Visit in Bentota, Sri Lanka.
A stunning resort town in Sri Lanka famed for its pristine beaches, lush greenery and plenty of attractions, Bentota is awed by its beaches and nightlife. Whether you want to simply chill on quiet sandy beaches, or get to know the rich cultural heritage, Bentota has a lot to offer for everyone. This post is about places to visit in Bentota and having a memorable travel trip from here.
1. Bentota Beach
The jewel in the town’s crown, at least as far as tourists are concerned, is the long swathe of soft, golden sand with azure waters and tall palm trees. Boasting a sunny sandy beach, it is well positioned for sunbathing, swimming and for the many water sports available from jet skiing to windsurfing to parasailing. Bentota Beach, is a perfect relaxing beach for both recreation and relaxation, its incredible sunsets will impress you.
2. Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa
The enchanting Brief Garden is created by Bevis Bawa, the older brother of Sri Lanka’s famous architect Geoffrey Bawa, and is just a short drive from Bentota. This fascinating collection of plants, sculptures and artworks makes a lush garden estate a hidden paradise. There are themed gardens and indoor spaces to wander through in which each nook and cranny is crafted to provide a different aesthetic.
3. Bentota River
Bentota River is suited for nature lovers as well as for those looking for adventure. There is a river safari, with the rich mangrove forest and a range of different wildlife to see, such as birds, monitor lizards and crocodiles on offer for visitors. These safaris are a safe place to retreat into nature away from everything and a great means by which to experience the ecological diversity of Sri Lanka.
4. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Bentota’s closest Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is to help save from extinction the endangered sea turtles. The sea turtle hatchery rescues, rehabilitates and releases disabled sea turtles back into the wild. Depending on the season, we invite visitors to learn about the efforts to protect these creatures and even participate with releasing baby turtles into the ocean.
5. Cinnamon Island
There is also a boat trip to Cinnamon Island, in the midstream of river Bentota for a unique cultural experience. Cinnamon is cultivated on the island. The traditional ways of harvesting and processing cinnamon are shown by local families. Freshly made cinnamon sticks are available for sale to visitors, who also make a great souvenir from Sri Lanka.
6. Galapata Vihara
The Buddhist temple of Galapata Vihara is an ancient temple which has a history back to 12th century. There are impressive stone carvings, murals as well as large reclining Buddha statue. The temple is an important Buddhist spiritual site because it features a purported relic of the Buddha.
7. Lunuganga Estate
Currently the Lunuganga Estate is open to the public as a country hotel and garden, the former country home of Sri Lanka’s most influential architect Geoffrey Bawa. This allows us a small glimpse into how Bawa incorporated architecture in combination with the natural environment. Guided tours are given of his life and design philosophy.
8. Wanawasala
Then, it’s a serene spot where for a touch of authentic Sri Lanka you can experience a traditional village first hand. It’s a fine place to see what life is really like for the locals, to eat a village meal prepared by families and absorb the local crafts and industries like coir making and basket weaving.
Conclusion
Bentota is indeed the jewel of the country when it comes for tourism since the irresistible charm and the series of activities to offer attracts local and foreign tourists. The best of Bentota starts from the natural characteristic of the beach, spa treatment, local cuisine to enjoying the natural and cultural sites. Bentota is a destination for each of us as there is a blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural immersion to explore the place.
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