Joanna James
A town with a history of trade and culture, the once-strategically located town of Bentota was a spice and commerce hub in the past - with the charm and tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka coming through in a perfectly representative form of this resort town. Silent, picturesque, yet perfectly adorned with creature comforts and interesting escapades that make the country interesting.
The timeless and renowned Hindu sacred site known as the 'Katukoliha Temple,' coupled with the extensive paddy-fielded backdrop, offers a perfect location for immersing yourself in a cycling experience. As you bike along this route, you will encounter the breathtaking mural art adorning the walls of the Mullegoda Temple and the serene blue expanse of Dedduwa Lake - making it a perfect ride around town.
Conceived by the skilled and celebrated Sri Lankan artist, Bevis Bawa, the Brief Garden encompasses a vast expanse of five acres, showcasing a mesmerizing ensemble of tropical trees, sculptures, artwork, and grand, impressive edifices. A delightful and enchanting destination, it provides a serene escape from the urban commotion, and is reachable from the city easily, making hotels like Bentota No 1 a short ride away.
Once you've reached Bentota and familiarised yourself, consider making your way to Ambalangoda. Situated approximately twenty-four kilometres from Bentota, this nearby coastal town is renowned for its historic devil masks and devil dancers. Positioned at an elevation of around thirteen meters above sea level, the area hosts a variety of antique shops offering distinctive and exquisite jewellery pieces at great prices.
Feel like a trek? The breathtaking fields of the Aturuwella region await! Dutch-style architectural residences pepper the landscape, offering a glimpse into the past. This locale also presents a perfect vantage point for witnessing the sunset. Also a haven for numerous migratory birds, this place is beautiful in more ways of nature than one would expect, becoming a staple of the area for those interested in visual sights and things to experience.
Bentota town offers a plethora of tranquil and mesmerizing beaches, among which the aptly-named Bentota Beach stands out, welcoming visitors with its gently swaying coconut trees and picturesque scenery. It's unquestionably a haven for nature enthusiasts as well as beach lovers, providing opportunities for engaging in water-based leisure activities such as swimming, diving, and snorkelling. You'll be hard-pressed to find a boutique hotel in Sri Lanka with sights that match these!
Referred to as the Madu Ganga River Safari, this Balapitiya attraction is situated in the southern part of the Galle district. It's an escape for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike, boasting an abundance of lush mangrove trees and a diverse array of exotic bird species. Embark on a river cruise along the Madu waters, where visitors can encounter over one hundred and eleven bird species thriving in their natural surroundings. A great way to top off what has been an
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.
