Joanna James
Bentota is a small town in the island country Sri Lanka offering its visitors many activities and attractions. The place was also a former trade hub when the spice trade in the country was at large.
Bentota is a quaint village with the laid-back feel that makes you feel as if you are visiting Sri Lanka in 1990s. The setting of the place and the atmosphere make it a perfect spot if you want to go for a cycling tour. While roaming around you will be met with attractions like the mural painting in Mullegoda temple and the greenish blue waters of Dedduwa lake. A cycling tour is no doubt the best way to explore the town.
This is one other place where you can enjoy the beauty of the town. The garden takes up a land space of five acres and was designed by the skilled Sri Lankan artist Bevis Bawa. The place is a repository of trees and various sculptures. The entrance fee is Rs. 350 which of course is nothing and the experience is 100-fold your money's worth. If you are here hoping to get away from all that bustle in the capital, the Brief Garden is the first place you should visit.
Since you've come all the way here from Colombo, you might as well include Ambalangoda in your travel itinerary. Located just 24 km away from Bentota, Ambalangoda has a myriad of jewellery shops and antique shops. If you are curious about those devil masks you've seen in travel magazines, come over here for a first-hand experience.
Apart from culture, heritage and nature, Bentota is famous for its plethora of activities. If you are planning you stay at a Bentota Hotel the likes of AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa, you have the option using their fully equipped gym to continue your fitness routine. But if you want to replace your experience at a gym with something that makes you feel closer to nature, you can go hiking, trekking or walking. To sight exotic birds and mangrove trees, you should visit Madu River. As you cruise alongside the river, you have the chance of seeing one hundred and eleven species of indigenous bird varieties. Alternatively, you can head down to the beach for a leisurely stroll in the evening or pop in at Kosgoda Turtle hatchery to see sea turtles and tortoises.
This is one of the best things to do in Bentota. If you visit Saman Villas, you are in for a satisfying spa session that will revive your depleted energy. There's a range of therapeutic facilities like aromatherapy, reflexology, fish spa and hot stone therapy. The unique therapy sessions are unlike what you've experienced before and a must-do. It is always a good idea to book your place in advance. The popularity of the site is such, the spa tends to be full of foreigners and local residents.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
