Joanna James
Tucked away in the Southern province, Bentota is where you can experience island living at its best. With long stretches of sandy shores, crashing blue waves and sunshine all day long what more can you ask for. You can enjoy a cool drink at sunset or party it up at night, Bentota offers you both ends of the world.
If you are water sports fanatic Bentota is the best place for you. There are a number of activities to choose from which you can go solo or team up for. You could choose from jet skiing, wake boarding or wind surfing to fill your adventurous needs or even go on a banana boat. If you are staying over at a popular Bentota hotel such as Saman Villas, water sport activities are only just 5 kilometres away.
A river safari in the famous Madu river is a must when in Bentota. You can witness some out of the ordinary biodiversity while cruising through the mangroves. This is a perfect way to reconnect with nature and witness some natural beauty while you are on vacation. There are many places that offer boat tours in the Madu river that you can easily set up a tour with.
Visit the turtle hatchery in Kosgoda to witness and interact with turtles and learn about them. You can see how the eggs are hatched and see some baby turtles swimming about in the water. If you visit the turtle conservation project in Kosgoda you might even be lucky enough to see the turtles laying eggs in the sand.
Vising the brief garden is one of the top things to do in Bentota. This garden designed by Bevis Bawa brother of the most famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa is a charming stretch of greenery over five acres. You can witness some beautiful sculptures and magnificent art and structures here.
Who doesn't love some beach time! Bentota is home to some amazing beaches where you can get lost under the coconut trees and crashing waves. You can enjoy some water sports such as snorkelling or simply head to a beach in the evening to enjoy a golden sunset.
Kande Vihara is a great place to explore the religious and cultural influence of Sri Lanka and learn a little bit about its history. You can visit some ancient statues and sculptures here and witness a magnificent Buddha statue. Situated on top hill you will also be rewarded with some beautiful views once you reach the temple.
Bentota is famous for diving and if you are an adventure lover this is the perfect way to spend your time here. There are some diving schools around where you can get some assistance if you need it. Some of the best diving spots are Canoe Rock, South Reef or Hundirangala to see some beautiful corals.
You could take a trek down the paddy fields around the Aturuwella area in Bentota and get a true feel of nature. There is also an old temple 'Katukohila temple' around the area where you can see some old buildings with a touch of Dutch architecture.
A visit to the home of Geoffrey Bawa is one of the top things to do in Bentota. Here you can witness an example of the great work of the famous Sri Lankan architect to spearhead the industry.
Known for its cinnamon plantation this island will take you on a journey of how cinnamon is made and learn about its uses. Not only that you could also engage in diving or surfing activities at this amazing island.
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.
