Sightseeing tours and experiences around Bentota - Top Holiday Excursions and Encounters around Beach Hub Bentota

As the breathtaking garden and estate that served as the home of landscape guru Bevis Bawa the Brief Garden remains one of the top highlights in the area. Showcasing features of a Japanese water garden along with other captivating landscaping wonders the picturesque space is also home to the artist's former residence in which Dutch furnishings, fine paintings, sculptures and collector's items including antiques lie waiting.

Home to the highest seated posture Buddhist sculpture in the world the Kande Viharaya is a sacred Buddhist institution dating back to 1743. The brainchild of Dedduwa Dhammananda Thero the venue within its 160 foot high sculpture welcomes pilgrims from around the world who come to pray an seek blessings from this iconic temple in the coastal belt.

Often described as one of the most rewarding excursions one can experience in Bentota a river cruise on the third biggest river in the island is a once in a life time opportunity to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the seaside hamlet. Littered with mangrove forests visitors can tour an 800 year old forest dwelling Buddhist temple known as a Wanawasala and encounter local wildlife including river birds, crocodiles and water monitors. Visitors who wish to experience this and similar cruises around the island can consult Yathra by Jetwing a premier operator for river cruise Sri Lanka counts among its best boat tour organizers.

This hallowed space is believed to contain the tooth relics of Lord Buddha's 3rd disciple within its central stupa. Dating back to the 12th century this landmark temple is home to a 25 foot reclining pose Buddha statue as well as ancient pillars showcasing the classic Nari Latha motif in carving. Destroyed by invading foreign forces the beautifully restored religious space is a sacred temple visited by locals and tourists alike.

Easily accessible from the heart of Bentota town the Beruwela fishing harbor is a massive commercial seafood trading hub in the island. Drop by the busy marketplace in the wee hours of the morning to see fresh seafood arrive from the boats.

Conveniently located within 3km of the Bentota Bridge this renowned hatchery and conservation centre is one of the must-visit attractions in the coastal city. Set up to conserve and successfully hatch marine turtle eggs laid on the beaches of Beruwala the centre hopes to increase the declining numbers of turtles occupying Sri Lankan waters. Visitors can take part in the conservation effort or take part in releasing hatchlings back to the ocean.

Perched on a scenic island off the coast of Beruwala this towering edifice juts out of the surrounding landscape as a beacon of white emitting a guiding light to sea faring vessels. Boat rides to the Beruwala Lighthouse are popular among seasoned visitors to the area as the venue also affords panoramic views across the landscape from its unique vantage point.