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Bentota, which lies on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, is a veritable paradise for those who enjoy this fantastic island’s beach, outdoor activities, and diverse culture. Bentota is the ideal vacation spot for rest and renewal, with a dash of adventure thanks to its immaculate and beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, massive greenery and scenic surroundings. Here are some of the best things to do in Bentota to ensure your visit is memorable and filled with exciting experiences for your entire life.
10 Popular Things To Do In Bentota
Explore the captivating things to do in Bentota, which is perfect for an enriching retreat in this charming part of Sri Lanka.
1. Bentota Beach
Photo: Pavan Lulla / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bentota Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the nation that perfectly captures the splendour of Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Bentota Beach, renowned for its golden sand and glistening ocean, is a haven for sports enthusiasts and beachgoers. The warm, quiet waters are perfect for swimming and go well with other water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing for the more daring. Many resorts, cafes, and restaurants that provide delicious seafood and cool drinks line the area’s beachfront, making for the ideal beachside experience.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free entry
Suggested Read: Discover The Best Places To Visit In Bentota
2. Bentota River Safari
Photo: Ambient Vista / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Take an exciting Bentota River Safari to discover the mangrove woods that border the river, giving you a peek at this area’s abundant biodiversity. On a guided boat tour in the calm seas, you may witness various animals in their natural habitat. Look out for crocodiles sunning themselves along the banks, smoothly swimming water monitors, and different bird species perching in the treetops. The safari provides a great picture of the way of life of the people who live by the river.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3. Garden by Bevis Bawa
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The Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa is an overwhelming synthesis of art, design, and nature. This garden was the country estate of renowned Sri Lankan artist and landscape architect Bevis Bawa. Spread over this garden, with its rich exotic plants, colour-splashed flowering plants, and towering trees, the designs are laid out meticulously to deliver peace. The enchanting atmosphere of Brief Garden provides a unique insight into the creative mind of Bevis Bawa, making it one of the most enchanting things to see in Bentota.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Read: Top Bentota Water Sports For Indulging In A Thrilling Experience
4. Turtle Hatchery
Photo: Richard Segal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bentota Turtle Hatchery is one of the most important conservation initiatives to prevent the possible extinction of critically endangered sea turtles. Visitors now have the chance to observe the entire life cycle of turtles, from when they lay their eggs until the hatchlings are released into the water, thanks to this educational and fascinating location. Witnessing the release of the newborn turtles into the water after they hatch may be a moving experience. The Turtle Hatchery is an important stop for understanding the necessity of marine conservation and is a highly recommended activity for what to do in Bentota.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
5. Discover Lunuganga Estate
Photo: Labeet / Wikimedia Commons
The most stunning example of architectural and landscape design brilliance may be at Lunuganga Estate, the country home of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, located a short distance from Bentota on Sri Lanka’s west coast. Such cleverly created Italian and tropical gardens occupy several acres of the property. The exquisitely landscaped garden, with water features, sculptures, and pavilions blending into the surroundings, is open to tourists. The estate features a placid lake that is ideal for strolls. Geoffrey Bawa’s life and his aim of creating environments that harmonise architecture and nature are revealed through guided tours.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Read: Beaches In Sri Lanka Where The Golden Sandy Shores Await You
6. Bentota Ayurveda Centre
Photo: Andreea Ch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Bentota Ayurveda Centre is the source of regeneration and relaxation. To promote holistic health and well-being, their wellness centre offers a genuine experience of traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic treatment through therapeutic massages, herbal baths, and detoxification programs. The practitioners are adept at using natural oils and herbs in various treatments to address various conditions and promote overall wellness. Adding a trip to the Bentota Ayurveda Centre to your list of things to do in Bentota might be a great option.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
7. Kande Vihara Temple
Photo: Rahul / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the principal Buddhist temples in Bentota, the Kande Vihara Temple, houses the tallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape. The temple’s interior is breathtaking, with statues and frescoes depicting various scenes from Buddhist literature. A sacred Bo tree, thought to have sprung from a sapling of the original tree where the tree was at Lord Buddha’s Enlightenment, is also housed on the temple grounds. The Kande Vihara Temple is a must-see when visiting Bentota because it is a place of prayer and a cultural and historical landmark.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Colombo
8. Cinnamon Island
Photo: pics721 / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Situated in the middle of the Bentota River, Cinnamon Island provides a distinctive experience for growing cinnamon. On the island, there is a small, family-run plantation that has been producing cinnamon for many years. Taking a tour of this plantation will give you an understanding of how the cinnamon bark is chosen, peeled, and dried to create a wonderful scent. Additionally, visitors can purchase fresh cinnamon goods straight from the plantation. One of the lovely additions to the list of Bentota attractions is Cinnamon Island, which provides an interesting perspective on the spice trade in Sri Lanka.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
9. Snorkelling and Diving
Photo: Miles Hardacre / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bentota’s pristine seas and diverse array of marine life make it an ideal location for vacations involving sea sports. On snorkelling and diving excursions, guests can have the fantastic experience of viewing vibrant coral reefs home to large families of marine life, such as tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally even reef sharks. These activities are accessible to novice and expert divers due to the warm waters and decent visibility.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Your Next Getaway
10. Maduganga River Safari
Photo: Frans van Heerden / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Maduganga River Safari is another fascinating excursion highlighting the abundant biodiversity in Sri Lanka’s riverine environments. On the guided boat excursion, you will be transported deep into the Maduganga River’s mangrove woods, where you can see species like kingfishers and monkeys and, if you’re lucky, perhaps crocodiles. The tranquil settings and breathtaking scenery make the Maduganga River Safari thrilling and relaxing. One of the best suggestions for things to do in Bentota is this safari because it combines nature and culture.
Location: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bentota’s vast array of activities geared towards different interests will astound you. Each destination in Bentota offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and natural splendour, ensuring that your visit is as varied as it is memorable. There are plenty of things to do in Bentota, including beaches, gardens, animals, and historical sites. Use TripXL to discover Bentota’s gems and make your way into an unforgettable adventure.
Cover Photo: Pavan Lulla / Wikimedia Commons
