Things to Do in Bentota – Entrancing Attractions for the Visitor

Taking an enjoyable safari on the Bentota River will be an experience that will appeal to many visitors. A safari will take you to the well-known local mangrove areas and provide you with the opportunity to observe the attractive natural scenery of the region. Your safari craft will serenely glide through inlets formed by the lianas and entangled tree roots, beneath the shady canopy formed by the lush foliage. You will have the opportunity to observe a host of water birds like kingfishers, herons and cormorants which dwell within the undergrowth. Visitors may even have the chance to spot one of the intriguing water monitors which can occasionally be seen in the area.

The renowned Kande Viharaya which can be found near the town of Bentota is famous for featuring the world's tallest Buddha figure in the seated position. This striking statue stands no less than 48 m in its height. Visitors will notice a steady stream of devotees arriving at the temple, flocking to Kande Viharaya in search of spiritual and mental solace from the worries and troubles of the everyday existence. You will notice the remarkable tranquility and serenity of this famous Buddhist temple which fills the visitor with an extraordinary sense of peace and calm.

This famous temple is another place of worship in the area that will appeal to the curious sightseer. This temple which is located on a riverbank is an ancient shrine which is renowned for containing a bodily relic of an eminent disciple of the Buddha. This temple was initially constructed in the 12th century; after being destroyed in later years it has been reconstructed giving it a fresh appearance. You will see that this temple features a number of interesting features including several vividly coloured images and statues. As you experience these attractions a choice of accommodation that you could consider would be one of the attractive hotels in Bentota Sri Lanka such as the Bentota Beach by Cinnamon.

This splendid garden that was at one time just a rubber estate is a masterpiece created by the well-known landscape specialist Bevis Bawa. The Brief Garden has become a popular tourist attraction with its attractive garden sculptures, nooks, alcoves and bowers. Visitors will notice that the garden is encircled by numerous bamboo sprouts and they will find a gate with a bell that must be rung in order to enter the property. You will see that the garden has been subdivided into numerous sections which have been landscaped in accordance with various themes such as a Japanese themed water garden. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit Bevis Bawa's former residence where you will find antique wooden furniture, sculptures, paintings and wall hangings.

Near Bentota, you will find a turtle hatchery that is sure to appeal to animal lovers. Turtle hatcheries such as this one have been established with the aim of protecting and nurturing endangered turtles by assisting them in their early life. The hatchery purchases the eggs of marine turtles from the local people and reburies them on the beach. After the eggs hatch the hatchlings are collected and kept within tanks for a few days, after which they are released into the seas. Visitors who come to the hatchery will have the opportunity to observe the various conservation activities and also view a couple of unusual albino marine turtles.