Top 5 things to do in Bentota

Top 5 things to do in Bentota

The glistening beaches of the paradise island of Sri Lanka are loved by locals and tourists alike. There are many famous beaches on the island that one can visit to enjoy a glorious seaside vacation with loved ones. Of course, some of these beaches can be rather crowded and commercialized and so, not many tourists get to enjoy the idyllic vacations that they are so eager to experience. However, in the bustling southwest coast of Sri Lanka lies an enchanting haven which offers peace and tranquillity to all. The little resort town of Bentota is indeed one of the most beautiful places that you will visit in Sri Lanka. Of course, the area surrounding the town has a myriad of popular attractions so those who want to enjoy a well-rounded holiday will always find bliss. Read on and find out about 5 top attractions that you can visit when travelling in Bentota.

01. Ventura Beach

32889498 252974718783360 8127495055217786880 N 1

Featured photo credit: Sahan Perera.

Golden sands glistening in the glorious sunshine, brilliant blue waves crashing ceaselessly reflecting the splendour of the skies and emerald-hued palm trees swaying in the salty breeze is all there for you to enjoy at the magnificent Ventura Beach. It is a place that ocean and beach lovers seldom miss when travelling on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The breath-taking beauty of this beach can indeed enthral you.

There are many stylish hotels and resorts lining these charming shores so you will be able to indulge in supreme comforts during your visit. If you want to be pampered like royalty, do visit one of the leading spas in the region. You will be able to experiment with the tantalizing tastes of the land as you dine at the many quaint beach restaurants in the area too.

Adventure seekers will also not be disappointed with a visit to Ventura Beach as the area offers plenty of incredible water sports. Snorkelling, scuba diving, jet-skiing and windsurfing are offered here for adrenaline junkes.

02. Kande Viharaya Temple

Learn more about the incredible culture and history of Sri Lanka as you visit the beautiful Kande Viharaya Temple. The name Kande Viharaya which translates to ‘Temple on the Hill’ has been given to this sacred site of worship as it is perched atop a beautiful hill, overlooking the sea. The temple has been recognized as an archaeological site by the Government of Sri Lanka.

This beautiful temple was founded by the ven. Karapagala Dewamitta Thero back in the year 1734. The Bodhi tree of the temple is believed to be over 300 years old. There is a large stupa on site, which was built in the year 1935. This stupa encloses a smaller stupa which makes it quite special.

The highlight of a visit to this temple would be the witnessing of the majestic statue of Buddha which was built in the year 2007. The statue which depicts Buddha in a seated position has a height of 48.8 meters, which makes it one of the tallest seated statues of Buddha in the world.

32889498 252974718783360 8127495055217786880 N 1

Featured photo credit: Sahan Perera.

03. Lunuganga Country House

If you start yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of the chaotic city life, your very soul will find solace in the enchanting spaces of the Lunuganga Country House. This was the country estate of the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. It is located in a breath-taking spot, overlooking a lake, which heightens its appeal immensely. The lush greenery which engulfs this expansive estate is loved by all visitors.

The beautiful estate was used for the cultivation of Cinnamon during the Dutch era. The British used the site for rubber cultivation. In the year 1949, this enchanting piece of land was bought by a young Geffrey Bawa and the rest is history! The site received his love and attention until his death in the year 2003.

32889498 252974718783360 8127495055217786880 N 1

Featured photo credit: Sahan Perera.

04. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery

32889498 252974718783360 8127495055217786880 N 1

Featured photo credit: Sahan Perera.

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a site not to be missed when travelling in the southwest coast in Sri Lanka. This is one of the 18 turtle hatcheries operating in Sri Lanka. It is also, arguably the most popular one. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery was established back in the year 1981 with the noble intention of protecting endangered turtles in Sri Lanka. The establishment seeks to increase the rate of hatching and give a fighting chance for this species to survive.

05. Madu River

32889498 252974718783360 8127495055217786880 N 1

Featured photo credit: Sahan Perera.

Enjoy an idyllic boat ride in the glistening Madu River and create a memory to cherish for a lifetime! In the lush territories of this area, 111 species of birds, 50 species of butterflies and 31 species of reptiles have been discovered. There are lots of tour operators in the area offering boat rides so you will be able to enjoy this experience with great ease.