Located along the west coast of Sri Lanka is the popular island destination of Bentota. The resort town boasts of stretches of golden sandy beaches, filled with palm trees for shade. Travelers often stay at Bentota’s luxurious resorts after exploring sights like Paradise Island, Galapota Temple, and more. Check out the handy travel guide below for an exciting list of things to do in Bentota!
A must visit when in Bentota, travelers would surely enjoy a day spent in the clear crystal blue waters and white sands of Ventura Beach. Considered to be one of Bentota’s popular beaches, it’s the perfect spot for those gearing up to enjoy exciting water activities. Ride the waves of the vast Indian Ocean with exciting surfing or jet-skiing experiences or discover the underwater world as you snorkel and scuba dive. Those looking to wind down and relax can head to the many nearby beach-front resorts available.
Discover the life and stories of one of Sri Lanka’s acclaimed architects, Geoffrey Bawa, with a tour of his personal residence, Lunuganga. This top tourist attraction in Bentota, boasts of a breathtaking landscape mixed with design elements of Italian Renaissance gardens, English landscaping, Japanese garden art, and ancient Sri Lanka’s water gardens scattered around. During your visit, marvel at a beautiful view of Dedduwa Lake as you explore the architect’s country house.
Considered to be one of the major Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, Kande Viharaya Temple is surely on travelers list of places to go when in Bentota. The famed monument honoring Buddha and his life has a history dating as far back as 1734. The hilltop temple is also the home one of the world’s tallest statue of the sitting Buddha, with a height of 160ft. Devotees often flock to Kande Viharaya to pray for blessings and comfort from everyday troubles.
One of the sure must do in Bentota, explore the serene and beautiful green grounds of Brief Garden. Designed by the elder brother of Sri Lankan landscape architect Geoffrey Bawa, Bevis, the famed garden was said to have been an inspiration to Geoffrey’s future works and also Bevis’ residence. Located 8km from Bentota’s main area, travelers will be able to enjoy narrow pathways, colorful landscapes of tropical plants, and beautiful sculpture art as they explore the Japanese-style garden.
The home of Sri Lanka’s pioneering sea turtle conservation efforts, travelers will be able to discover how these animals are protected at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project. With Kosgoda being a prime turtle nesting site, the area became a dedicated venue to support the group’s mission. Visitors will be able to learn more on the life of sea turtles and conservation efforts, as they explore the onsite hatchery, info center, and tanks available for viewing.
Located between the town’s coast and the main city lie the peaceful waters of Bentota Lake. A popular recreational area, locals and tourists come to the lakeside to relax and take in the beautiful scenic views. Keep your eyes peeled and you might even spot colorful birds fly by or see fish swim alongside your stroll. After your visit, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the various nearby restaurants.
Less crowded than Bentota and Beruwala Beach, Morgalia Beach allows visitors to enjoy a day in the sun and water in a more serene atmosphere. Morgalia is known as a good spot for snorkeling and diving activities, since the coral reef lies not too far away from the coastline. Those who choose not to go diving can enjoy a swim in the beach’s shallow waters or lay out and sunbathe at its yellow sandy landscape.
Figuring out what to take home to remember your trip to Bentota? A stop at Sunflower Arts & Crafts is a must for those looking for souvenirs! Sunflower Arts & Crafts offers visitors a wide range of beautiful local products to choose from. Get a chance to shop for handmade batik, masks, furniture, and jewelry made by local artisans. While you look around, enjoy a closer look at impressive handcrafted art, such as wood carved elephants, and more.
One of Bentota’s Budhist temples, Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya shares a rich history, dating the era of King Devanampiyatissa, from 250-210 BC. The temple is one of the 5 ancient Buddhist temples along the Circular Road. Historians believe that the 5 temples once belonged to one large temple complex, and were discovered to be connected through underground tunnels. Visitors will be able to take a peek at Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya tunnel, as it has been excavated and restored to a certain extent.
Thrillseekers and those looking for adrenaline pumping experiences in Bentota will enjoy a day at Malu Banna Water Sports Centre! The riverside water sports centre offers a range of exciting water activities to try. Hop on high speed jet skis, tube rides, speed boats or gain a new skill like windsurfing and wakeboarding during your visit. Cap off your day with refreshments at the cafe and juice bar or enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
The scenic Sri Lanka resort town is often flocked to by travelers for its serene sandy beaches, lagoons, and coral-rich diving spots. Those looking for a break from the concrete jungle will surely enjoy an escape to Bentota’s breathtaking island scenery.
With tropical climate all year-round, travelers often visit Bentota from February to April, to make the most out of the good weather conditions for scuba diving, sunbathing, and exciting water activities. Plan your visit in December and get a chance to experience the rich culture of the town during the Bentota Perhera, a Buddhist festival that includes a parade of elephants, fire jugglers, and more.
Those planning to stay multiple days in Bentota can choose a variety of luxurious resorts or accommodations in the small resort town. Stay close to the water and scenic island sights with any of the beach-front resorts along Ventura Beach.