Joanna James
As one of the island's top beach hotspots, Bentota welcomes visitors from around the world. Here are some interesting factoids regarding the breathtaking honeymooner's paradise.
Ranked among Sri Lanka's best loved beach holiday destinations, Bentota is located within easy reach of the nation's capital Colombo. A mere 65km from the bustling metropolis, the beach haven is even more accessible thanks to the Southern Expressway which was declared open in recent years. Less than 40km away from the southern capital of Galle, Bentota also proves to be a strategic base from which to explore the southern coastline of Sri Lanka.
Although Bentota is considered a year round holiday hotspot, those who wish to make the most of the experience should time their visit to coincide with the best weather conditions in the area. The months from November to April are considered the ideal time to holiday in the area as it is the peak tourist season in Bentota. This is also the most expensive time to visit the region as countless locals and tourists flock to the convenient beach Mecca during the period.
One of the main advantages of holidaying in Bentota is that holidaymakers will have access to several pristine beaches instead of just one patch of paradise. In addition to the town's namesake Bentota Beach, other hot pick beaches in the area include captivating Ventura Beach and the decidedly tranquil Moragalla Beach. The latter is the perfect hideaway for honeymooners while Ventura Beach and Moragalla Beach also offer visitors the chance to engage in a host of water bound activities.
Bentota is a popular vacation location for water sports lovers and active travellers. The sunny weather conditions as well as the area's wind and water conditions make Bentota a prime spot for snorkelling excursions. Windsurfers will also find Bentota the perfect backdrop for their favourite water bases sporting activity. Those who are based at Cinnamon Bentota Beach or any similar 5 star hotels in Bentota will find that water sports packages are available through resorts as well as local tour operators.
The iconic Galapata Vihara is among Bentota's most coveted cultural highlights. Dating back to the 12th century, the resplendent temple was the brainchild of King Parakramabahu the Great. A series of tunnels run beneath the temple while the full moon poya days are some of the red letter days in the temple's calendar as many religious festivities and processions take place during the period.
The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Project is a conservation hub and tourist attraction synonymous with Bentota. Set up with the aim of safeguarding the island's endangered sea turtle population, the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Project premises provides shelter for countless hatchlings until they are old enough to return to the ocean. Tourists can sign up for a plethora of conservation activities at the centre if they so wish and some of these activities include collecting sea turtle eggs from the beach or taking part in releasing the hatchlings into the sea.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
