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Updated by Joanna James on Mar 16, 2024
Headline for 6 Cool Things to do in Bentota – A Coastal Paradise
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Joanna James Joanna James
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6 Cool Things to do in Bentota – A Coastal Paradise

Bentota is a tranquil coastal town found in the South Western edge of Sri Lanka. Though it may be small in size, it is full of all kinds of adventure and excitement that's just waiting to be experienced. So, if you're vacationing at Bentota, here are 5 cool things for you to do.

1

Get Closer to Nature

There's a wealth of natural beauty to discover and marvel at here in Bentota. The Madu River is a highlight in this regard. You can take boat safaris along the river, cross into mangrove swamps and finally arrive at the lagoon bordering the coast. All along the way, you'll be able to catch sightings of fantastic water birds, fierce mugger crocodiles and a diverse cast of amphibians and butterflies. Cruising along the river enables you to watch these animals live in and interact with their environment – and you're sure to see scenes that rival moments you've seen in the best nature documentaries. You can also go trekking along with the trials of the Bentota-Aturuwella areas. Along the way, you'll be treated to the sights of picturesque waterfalls, lush paddy fields and ancient temples.

2

Cycle and Explore

Cycling can be a great way to explore the Bentota area, especially the Bentota town. The landscapes you'll encounter as you pedal along are as beautiful as they are varied. Picture green paddy fields ripe with the season's harvest, long stretches of pristine coastline and patches of verdant greenery that are alive with a serenade of bird calls. Around the town itself, you'll come across ancient Hindu temples such as the Katukoliha temple – these structures have stood by for centuries and offer a fantastic insight into Sri Lanka's multicultural past. You will also be able to admire the mural-covered walls of the Mullegoda Temple and gaze across the shimmering waters of Dedduwa Lake

3

Go Shopping

If you're itching to go on a bit of a shopping spree or want to nab yourself a trinket to remember Bentota by, there are plenty of vendors to peruse through in town. You might want to travel a bit away from Bentota and travel to Ambalangoda. Here you'll find an array of souvenir shops that sell authentic Sri Lankan arts and crafts. These include specially crafted devil masks and frills which play an important role in Sri Lankan history and culture.

4

Hit Up the Beach

The Bentota Beach is by far what the region is most well known for. This is evidenced by all the prominent 5-star hotels in Bentota that are based around the beach such as the Cinnamon Bentota Beach. The beach itself is surrounded by calm lagoons that are perfect for all manner of water sports. So, if you're in the mood for some jet skiing or kayaking, this is the place to be in Sri Lanka.

5

Visit a Turtle Hatchery

The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is one of the best attractions to visit in all of Bentota. Here, turtle eggs are collected and kept safe until they are ready to hatch – at which point the hatchlings are released into the ocean – and old and injured turtles are rehabilitated and given sanctuary. You can interact with these fascinating reptiles by feeding and petting them. You can also learn how you can help save these endangered animals from extinction.