Bentota is a gorgeous beautiful resort town in Sri Lanka. Located in Sri Lanka’s mesmerizing southwest and on its coastal belts, Bentota is a spectacular part of rural Sri Lanka with green environs in the background and tall coconut palm trees everywhere in the landscape.
The lagoons, the estuaries, and the calm weather will all scintillate you like never before. There are a great many places to visit in Bentota which charm tourists. Bentota is also famous for its dazzling marine life and you will love the atmosphere once you step in. A serene beauty, especially for the newly wedded couples, this place is speechless and its exquisiteness cannot be expressed in words but only felt.
20 Places To Visit In Bentota
Here’s your little guidebook to places to visit in Bentota, Sri Lanka. Take a look!
- Lunuganga Garden
- Bentota River
- Polgampola Waterfall
- Sunflower Arts and Crafts
- Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya
- Amal Villa Ayurvedic and Spa Center
- Anyone Can Cook
- Saman Villas
- Kande Vihara
- Dedduwa Lake
- Brief Garden
- Bentota Beach
- Bentota Turtle Hatchery
- Cinnamon Island
- Galapata Vihara
- Ambalangoda
- Moragalla
- Diyakawa Water Sports Centre
- Madu Ganga River Safari
- Explore the Galle Dutch Fort
1. Lunuganga Garden
Image Credit: Labeet for Wikimedia Commons
Lunuganga Estate was the home of Geoffrey Bawa, one of Asia’s most popular architects. The Garden tour at the estate is one of the most sought-after things to do in Bentota. Inspired by his brother Bevis Bawa’s Brief Gardens, Geoffrey built up this place. It is here thereafter that Bawa continued to experiment with other ideas in the field of architecture. On the tour, visitors can see Bawa’s Garden Room, the Red Terrace, the Butterfly Pool, one end of the Dedduwa Lake, and many other sections of the Garden. So, make it a point to include this garden in your travel itinerary.
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2. Bentota River
Image Credit: Balou46 for Wikimedia Commons
Bentota River is spread over a vast expanse and is experienced best through a River Safari. The safari moves through mangrove woods, where you can see many exotic bird species including Halcyons and White Herons. On the safari, you can also see baby crocodiles, and monitor lizards, and fruit bats. With coconut trees leaning over you on both sides, this destination feels like the Garden of Eden. The atmosphere is tranquil, and the scenery is like no other you’ve seen before. Thus, it’s a destination absolutely unmissable.
3. Polgampola Waterfall
Also known as the Thambadola Ella, the Polgampola is a natural waterfall that collects in a pool of water. The height of the waterfall is modest at only 3 meters, and yet the place is quite charming and quaint and surrounded by the natural beauty of the rocky terrain. The water from the waterfall is fresh and clean. Furthermore, around the fall season, you might find naturally occurring flora and fauna there, including local fish and birds.
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4. Sunflower Arts and Crafts
One of the very cool places to visit in Bentota, Sri Lanka, is the Sunflower Arts and Crafts workshop. You can find some authentic Srilankan woodwork pieces here. Anyone interested in art, especially whittling and wood sculptures, must visit the place, and take a look at the process, and witness the magic come alive. They craft intricately carved Buddha statues, animal sculptures, and religious icons. Moreover, tourists can buy and take home souvenirs from here.
5. Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya
Although Bentota is popular as a beachy destination, the city also houses many important temples of Buddhist tradition. Located on a hill 150 meters high, the Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya is one of 5 ancient temples all connected by tunnels. The temples are believed to have been established by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC. The temple also has an interesting history, and just like all other Buddhist temples, it was looted and partly demolished by Portuguese settlers. Today, the temple functions normally and offers a sacred and peaceful atmosphere to meditate in and offer prayers.
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6. Amal Villa Ayurvedic and Spa Center
The Amal Villa Ayurvedic and Spa Center is a one-stop destination for healing and relaxing. Tourists can stay at the villas, which offer beach views and have the best amenities. Right next to the villas is the spa center, built from clay and offering massages, herbal steam baths, sauna, manicures, pedicures, etc. Bentota is famous for its spas and health centers that specialize in Ayurveda. All in all, visiting this destination will surely add a restful time to your travel experience in Sri Lanka.
7. Anyone Can Cook
Anyone Can Cook is what happens when you merge a restaurant with a cooking class. The hosts are very gracious, patient, and incredible instructors. Visitors learn to cook various authentic Sri Lankan dishes under the tutelage of the chefs. Finally, they can sit in the restaurant and taste the fruit of their labors. If you’re traveling solo, then this is a must-do activity for you. Food can familiarize you with the culture of a place. So, make sure to include this place on your travel list besides sightseeing in Bentota.
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8. Saman Villas
Image Credit: Jithra Adikari for Wikimedia Commons
The Saman Villas are one of the best hotel resorts to stay at while sightseeing in Bentota. The resort is situated on the beachside and offers 27 ocean-facing suites. Folks can easily walk up to the shore for a stroll or a swim. There are also many water sports services nearby for adventurers and brave-hearts. The view of the coastline and the infinite oceans are mesmerizing, thus making this spot perfect for relaxing and winding down.
9. Kande Vihara
Image Credit: Balou46 for Wikimedia Commons
Step into the tranquil premises of the Kande Vihara temples! This Buddhist temple is called the mountain temple (Kande Vihara) as it is situated on the top of a hill. The temple is recognized as an archeological and heritage site by the Sri Lankan government. At the heart of the temple is a sacred Bodhi tree that is over 300 years old. The walls and ceilings of the temple have been decorated with scenes from the Jataka Tales, and moments from the life of Buddha. In this way, this place makes for a great historical and spiritual location to visit.
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10. Dedduwa Lake
Located in East Bentota, near the Lunuganga Gardens maintained by Geoffrey Bawa Trust, is the Dedduwa Lake. The lake is known for its beautiful waters and the marshy lands that surround it. Many a boathouse can be found roaming on the lake, a great way to sit back and relax amid the peaceful environment. Nature’s beauty is at its apogee here when the sun’s setting over the horizon. Therefore, travelers to Bentota must visit Dedduwa Lake if they intend to have a restful vacation.
11. Brief Garden
It is one of the calmest and most composed places to visit near Bentota. Situated eight kilometers from the resort town, this garden is crafted in a Japanese-style design and the feel will take you back to the colonial days, for sure. Have you heard of Bevis Bawa- no? - He is a well-known architect and this garden was his home earlier. You can go through most of his beautiful works during your visit.
Suggested Read: Brief Garden By Bevis Bawa
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12. Bentota Beach
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Even when you google and see the pictures of this placid Bentota sight-seeing destination, you will understand why this place is a must-visit. The beach is genuinely a place to relax and feel comfy in the lap of the mighty Indian Ocean. The pristine golden sands will surely take your breath away when you closely watch the vibrancy hidden in it. What adds to it is the beauty of high-end grassroots and palm trees that perfectly outline the beach.
13. Bentota Turtle Hatchery
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So, while you visit Bentota Beach, do not forget to experience the magic of this spellbinding attraction. You will get to see up to five endangered species of turtles hatching and crisscrossing each other. Especially for nature lovers, this spot is considered the most enchanting place to visit in Bentota. You can visit this place with your family as well, trust me, kids will love it.
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14. Cinnamon Island
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It is yet another enthralling spot for tourists and sight-seers. It is also included in the list of the most beautiful places to visit near Bentota Sri Lanka. This island is famous for its age-old cinnamon plantation wherein you can learn and explore every small detail about cinnamon, from how it is processed to how it is used. For generations, this place has been taken care by a single family and you must not miss this island to visit during your trip to Bentota. This is one of the best places to visit in Bentota.
15. Galapata Vihara
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This ancient beauty was constructed in the twelfth century. What's most stunning here is the maze of underground tunnels that beautifully connect various temples within the area. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Bentota. It houses a thirty-meter-high Buddha statue surrounded by eye-catching paintings. The temple has a very rich history absorbed in it which again makes it a great place to visit and explore for history lovers.
Suggested Read: Bentota Beaches
16. Ambalangoda
Image Credit: Gihan Viraj Thilakarathna for Wikimedia Commons
Another adorable town near Bentota, Ambalgoda is located twenty-four kilometers away from the town. It is widely known across Sri Lanka and outside for its appealing devil dancers who perform this activity wearing devil masks; this a must-watch activity, and it will totally flabbergast you. There are small shops nearby the area where you can bargain and buy these masks. I must say this is one of the superb tourist places in Bentota.
17. Moragalla
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A refreshing beach that is mostly calm and is not overstuffed with people. Situated on the south of Beruwala, Moragalla is not that famous, but if you are looking for a place to revive yourself after traveling for long hours, this is it. It has clear blue water and is a perfect place for sports activities such as windsurfing, diving, and snorkeling, among others. You will also see over twenty varieties of mangrove trees lined up at this beach; also, a perfect spot for boat trips.
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18. Diyakawa Water Sports Centre
This spot is bombarded with a slew of water sports activities and you will love experiencing each of them with your family or friends. Very friendly, safe, and cost-effective; don't miss the jet ski sport, it will take you to another level of fun. Equipped with all the modern stuff backed by professional and amazing staff, this place is a must-visit. The staff knows their waters, hell yeah!
19. Madu Ganga River Safari
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Hey all the nature lovers, this safari is a paradise coupled with rich wildlife experiences. There are over a hundred and eleven bird species to watch and click pictures. It is also a popular spot for ecologists as well as biologists. You will also see Captain Boathouse which offers amazing boat rides along the river and you can explore numerous things while spending time with the local guides.
Suggested Read: Bentota Resorts
20. Galle Dutch Fort
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For all the history lovers out there, explore more about Sri Lankan culture and tradition at this amazing fort. Located about fifty kilometers on the South of Bentota, this fort stretches across eighty-seven acres of land. It is home to a huge collection of antique museums and archaic churches. Many art and literary festivals are organized at this fort and you must visit it during one of these fests; it is an invigorating experience at this Bentota sightseeing.
Further Read: 5 Days In Sri Lanka
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bentota
What is Bentota famous for?
Bentota is famous for a variety of things including its beaches, ayurvedic wellness centers, and its turtle hatchery.
Is there much to do in Bentota?
There are some amazing places to explore in Bentota:
1. Cinnamon Island
2. Moragalla Beach
3. Ventura Beach
4. Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project
5. Dedduwa Lake
6. Bentota Beach
Which is better, Bentota or Galle?
For beach lovers, and water sports enjoyers, Bentota is a better vacation spot whereas Galle is more popular for its history, culture, and scenic views.
What is there to do in Bentota?
Here a few interesting things to in Bentota on your vacation:
1. Enjoy many therapies at Saman Villas
2. Take a cycle tour through the city
3. Enjoy some quiet time at the Brief Garden
4. Tred on walking and trekking trails in the outskirts of Bentota.
5. Surfing and diving at Cinnamon Island
How many days in Bentota?
A 3-day 2-night trip is perfect to explore Bentota.
Can you swim in Bentota Beach?
The water at the beach is clear and safe to swim in, however, one must be cautious of the waves and not stray too far in the sea.
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