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A charming resort town on the coast of Sri Lanka, there are many attractive places to visit in Bentota. It is truly a geographical wonder and a historical marvel, offering everything from pristine beaches, picturesque lagoons and estuaries, water sports and adventure activities to colonial estates, antique museums, sanctuaries and much more. Discover the enchanting allure of Bentota, where every moment is a testament to the island’s rich and diverse offerings. These beautiful places and the intriguing stories behind them will captivate you and leave you wanting more.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Bentota
Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Bentota that are a must-visit for a memorable experience on your trip:
1. Bentota Beach
Photo: Rambukwelladk / Wikimedia Commons
A stunning stretch of golden sand, Bentota Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka, known for its natural beauty. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, the beach also offers water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing. With the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caressing your feet, the warm sunlight kissing your skin, and a fresh coconut delicacy in your hand – a day spent on Bentota Beach is truly heavenly. It is one of the best places to visit in Bentota, easily accessible via cab or walking.
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Bentota Railway Station (0.5 Kms)
Suggested Read: Top Bentota Water Sports For Indulging In A Thrilling Experience
2. Brief Garden
Photo: icon0 com / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Brief garden narrates a tale of hard work, skill and love. Inherited by the famous Asian architect Bewis Bawa as a rubber plantation, this garden has been carved into an intricate maze-like structure, with each and every twisting turning path leading to the house. Spread across several acres, the garden provides a serene retreat for visitors to explore and unwind amidst nature’s beauty.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport (2 km)
3. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Photo: Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a one-of-a-kind place in Bentota, Sri Lanka. This sanctuary’s main aim is to conserve and protect the turtle species found here. The volunteers and workers here work with utmost care and love when handling these gentle animals, and all proceeds from tourism income go to the sanctuary’s development. It is one of the best places to visit in Bentota, where you can learn about sea turtles, their conservation, and even release baby turtles into the ocean.
Best Time To Visit: January – June
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Koggala (KCT) Airport, 11 kms
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Bentota
4. Ariyapala Mask Museum
Photo: Polina Kovaleva / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A top tourist attraction near Bentota, Ariyapala Mask Museum is located in Ambalangoda. The museum has an impressive collection of traditional Sri Lankan masks used in various cultural and religious ceremonies. These masks range from simple and colourful designs to intricate and elaborate creations, each telling a story. This place has a huge mask showroom, a museum, a puppet show and a workshop for traditional mask-making.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Koggala (KCT) Airport, 30 km
5. Kande Viharya
Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons
Kande Viharaya Temple is renowned for its stunning Buddha statue, beautiful architecture, and serene atmosphere. The premises consist of three separate buildings, devalas, and several small shops for souvenirs. Located on the main road to Galle, this temple is easy to spot, with the majestic Buddha statue towering above the buildings. It is an integral part of the local community, offering a space for worship and social interaction. A popular tourist destination in Bentota, this place provides insight into Sri Lankan culture and religion.
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Nearest Airport: Koggala (KCT) Airport, 15 km
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka
6. Cinnamon Island
Photo: Oleksandr P / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
As you land on the shores of this island, you are welcomed by the fragrance of fresh cinnamon, the primary plantation crop here. Nestled on the banks of the Medu River, this small island is dedicated to the cultivation and processing of cinnamon – a spice that has been integral to Sri Lanka’s history and economy for centuries. Visitors can purchase high-quality, freshly processed cinnamon products directly from the source, ensuring authenticity and supporting local farmers.
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: Bentota Railway Station (10 Kms)
7. Beruwalla Beach
Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the “Golden Mile,” this beach is in a remote part of Bentota, Sri Lanka. Adventure water sports, deep sea fishing, coral reef diving and picturesque views make it one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Bentota. The delicious cuisine offered at the restaurants here includes authentic dishes like perch fish curry and grilled jumbo prawn. Kechimalai Mosque, a famous local place of worship, also lies at a walking distance from the beach and is a must-visit. Make sure to dress modestly and follow the guidelines for tourists posted at these places.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timing: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Galle With Top Attractions And Experiences For Every Traveller
8. Madu River
Photo: Hugh Llewelyn / Wikimedia Commons
The Madu River, located in southern Sri Lanka near Bentota, is a biodiversity hotspot. This river meanders through a dense mangrove forest, creating a lush, serene environment rich in wildlife. A boat safari on the Madu River offers an immersive experience where visitors can spot various bird species, monitor lizards, and even the occasional crocodile. The river is dotted with small islands with unique attractions, such as ancient temples and cinnamon plantations.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timing: 24*7
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport
9. Galapatha Raja Maha Vihara
Photo: David Bartus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Galapatha Raja Maha Vihara is a historical Buddhist temple in Bentota, Sri Lanka. This temple is believed to date back to the reign of King Parakramabahu II. It is renowned for its ancient stone inscriptions, intricate carvings, and serene ambience and is one of the best places to visit in Bentota. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which include a beautifully preserved stupa and various small statues of Buddha along the periphery.
Best Time To Visit: October – April
Ideal Trip Duration: 6 AM – 8 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family
10. Lunuganga Estate
Photo: Labeet / Wikimedia Commons
Lunuganga Estate, the former country home of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, is a magnificent testament to his architectural genius and love for landscape design. Located near Bentota, this sprawling estate is an enchanting blend of art, architecture, and nature. Geoffery Bawa is the younger brother of Bevis Bawa, the architect behind Brief Garden. The house in the middle of the garden is available for tour and accommodation and has remarkable, colonial-style interiors that’ll captivate visitors.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM
Nearest Airport: Colombo International Airport
These places to visit in Bentota make it an enthralling destination. This coastal town in the pearl of the Indian Ocean offers insight into the rich heritage of the country. The city provides many experiences to cherish throughout, whether you are a culture enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious. Plan your next trip to Bentota with TripXL and bask in its warmth.
Cover Photo: Vincent van Zeijst / Wikimedia Commons
