Places To Visit In Bentota: Explore The Hidden Gems

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.

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Top 13 Places To Visit In Bentota

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Bentota offering a memorable and wonderful experience along the coastal shores and scenic beauty:

1. Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach in Sri Lanka with golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and a coastal.

Photo: Rambukwelladk / Wikimedia Commons

A stunning stretch of golden sand, Bentota Beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bentota, 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: Bentota Beaches

2. Brief Garden

Beautiful park with lush green grass, colourful flowers, and well-maintained paths.

Photo: icon0 com / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Next on our Bentota tourist places list is Brief garden. It 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

Turtle hatchery with baby turtles being released into the sea under the supervision.

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. Kande Viharya

Ancient temple with ornate architecture and lush greenery surrounding it -Places to visit in Bentota.

Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons

Kande Viharaya Temple is renowned for its stunning Buddha statue, beautiful architecture, and serene atmosphere. It is one of the top tourist places in Bentota featuring 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

5. Cinnamon Island

Serene view of green trees reflecting in calm water with a clear blue sky above.

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 one of the best places for Bentota trip. It 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)

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka

6. Madu River

Tranquil river scene with lush green vegetation and a wooden boat on the calm water.

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

7. 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: River Safari Bentota

8. Lunuganga Estate

Scenic garden with lush greenery, well-maintained pathways, and a tranquil pond.

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

9. Bentota Ayurveda Centre

Bentota Ayurveda Centre, among the top places to visit in Bentota for ayurvedic sessions.

Photo: Harpreet Singh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Bentota Ayurveda Centre is a tranquil wellness retreat offering authentic Ayurvedic treatments to promote relaxation and holistic healing. Nestled in a peaceful coastal setting, the centre provides Panchakarma therapies, herbal oil massages, acupuncture, and yoga sessions, each designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Skilled therapists use traditional Sri Lankan herbs and techniques to offer personalised treatments, catering to various health conditions, including stress relief, skin rejuvenation, and detoxification.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours, allowing enough time for a full wellness session.
Nearest Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport, 100 km

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family

10. Dedduwa Lake

Dedduwa Lake is one of the best places to visit in Bentota for relaxation and a picnic.

Photo: Jon Druker / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Dedduwa Lake is one of the hidden Bentota attractions, offering a peaceful escape into nature’s beauty. Surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and small islands, the lake is perfect for canoeing, boat rides, birdwatching, and photography. The calm waters reflect the sky, creating a mesmerising setting ideal for those looking for relaxation away from the bustling beaches. The lake’s proximity to Brief Garden adds to its appeal, making it an excellent place for visitors to experience both natural and artistic beauty.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (105 km)

11. La Luna Water Sports Centre

La Luna Water Sports Centre is one of the famous places to visit in Bentota among tourists.

Photo: Chris Rosiak / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

If you’re wondering what to see in Bentota Sri Lanka, La Luna Water Sports Centre is the premier destination. Enjoy thrilling aquatic adventures, catering to both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts. The centre offers a wide range of activities, including jet skiing, kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. The adrenaline-pumping skyboarding and parasailing allow guests to experience breathtaking aerial views of Bentota Beach, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers. For those who prefer something more relaxed, catamaran rides and sunset cruises are available, offering a serene and picturesque experience on the water.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Nearest Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (100 km)

12. Royal Palace Bentota

Royal Palace Bentota is a beach resort attracting tourists for fun and relaxation.

Photo: Chelsea Audibert / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Royal Palace Bentota is an exquisite luxury boutique hotel featuring a magnificent blend of traditional Sri Lankan architecture and modern comforts. Nestled in tropical gardens, this retreat offers elegant suites, fine dining, spa treatments, and a private beachfront, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and indulgence. Guests can enjoy personalised hospitality, with exclusive experiences such as Sri Lankan cultural performances, private beachfront dinners, and guided tours showcasing the local heritage. The ambience reflects a royal charm, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a lavish yet tranquil environment.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 nights
Nearest Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (100 km)

13. Sunflower Arts & Crafts

The Sunflower Arts & Crafts, a family-run business, is a famous tourist attraction.

Photo: Ryno Marais / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Sunflower Arts & Crafts is a delightful handicraft store and one of the famous Bentota tourist places that showcases the finest local artistry and craftsmanship in Bentota. The shop offers an extensive collection of handmade souvenirs, wooden carvings, paintings, batik textiles, traditional masks, and jewellery, each reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can interact with artisans and learn about Sri Lanka’s traditional crafting techniques, gaining insight into the intricate artistry behind the products. This spot is perfect for those who appreciate handmade goods and wish to take home a piece of Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (100 km)

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

Discover The Best Places To Visit In Bentota: Beaches, Attractions, And Scenic Spots Await