Joanna James
The Bentota Beach stretches for miles with coral-rich reefs making this laid back resort town are a huge attraction for visitors. However, if you want to experience more, there are many other treasures in and around Bentota that can be uncovered to add those lasting memories of your holiday.
The third-largest river on the island, the Bentota River is home to a variety of flora and fauna due to it having several mangroves along the way. A trip down the river on a boat will make you enjoy the scenery, witness the abundant flora and fauna such as crocodiles, fruit bats, birds such as kingfishers, yellow birds, tree frogs, Tree snakes etc. A good two-hour trip will make you see so much and have a glimpse of the fishing communities too. Try visiting one of the many restaurants in Bentota to enjoy a good meal and quench your thirst after that exciting ride.
Twelve acres of enchanting garden space at Lunuganga Estate is a creation by one of Asia's most influential architects, Sri Lankan born late Geoffrey Bawa. Situated along the banks of Dedduwa Lake in Bentota, these lush gardens encompass exotic flora, massive trees, elements of Italian Rennaissance gardens, ancient Sri Lankan water gardens, quaint Japanese garden art. Along every different path or turn, one gets a deep insight into the keen and artistic mind of this amazing creator. This oasis of different hues of green is a must-visit site on your trip to Bentota as is often done by visitors from Avani Bentota.
Do a visit to the Bentota Bazaar, a bustling arena of people and loads of things such as fruits, vegetables, spices, handicraft items, souvenirs and vibrant cotton clothing. Most goods are cheaper than at other shops and most stall owners are happy to assist you hence a good place to buy gift items to take back home. Don't forget to do some photographs whilst you are there to recapture the atmosphere.
Established in 1981, the mission of this unique hatchery is to enhance the rate of hatching turtle eggs and nurturing the baby turtles during their initial stages. Of the 18 hatcheries along the Southern Coast of Sri Lanka, this one is well known due to all five of the species that visit the island also nest at this hatchery. This is done by having staff patrol the beaches to seek mother turtles coming out of the sea to lay eggs, securing the eggs by relocating them from the beach to the hatchery and having eggs mature and hatch in a protected area. A marvellous process to witness.
Take your pick from a plethora of water sports available in Bentota, snorkelling, diving, banana boat rides,
jet-skiing, deep-sea fishing and many more. Feel the rush of adrenalin in jet skiing or banana boat rides, be awed at the glorious colours of the wonderous marine life under the sea. With many reputed and safe operators to guide and assist you, make the most of your stay in Bentota.
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