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Bentota is a small quaint resort town strategically located towards the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The place was previously a major trading hub where spice trade was very prominent. The charm and beauty of this fascinating island entice visitors and local residents alike. Travelers can indulge in various Bentota activities such as diving and fishing while catching a glimpse of some of the exotic species of aquatic life. Some of the other things to do in Bentota include paragliding, parasailing, snorkelling and gazing dolphin dance etc. From all the activities to do, we have picked the best ones that travelers must try in Bentota. Scroll further to read the list!

12 Best Things To Do In Bentota

For those who are historically inclined, there are many places that are steeped in history. This destination is also best suited for an adventure enthusiast. So, take a look at this list of the top things to do in Bentota and choose your options.

  • Saman Villas: Try Different Therapies
  • Cycling: Explore The Gorgeous Town
  • Brief Garden: Spend Time With Your Loved Ones
  • Ambalangoda: Shop Your Heart Out
  • Trekking: Walk Through The Trails
  • Bentota Beach: Take A Stroll Here
  • Balapitiya: Nature Hike Near Madu River
  • Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: Pay A Visit
  • Kande Vihara: Take History Lessons
  • Cinnamon Island: Go For Surfing & Diving
  • Whale Watching Tour: Time To Meet These Marine Creatures
  • Water Activities: Get You Heart Pumping

1. Saman Villas: Try Different Therapies

a woman taking fish spa

Those tourists who are pondering over the question what to do in Bentota may proceed to Saman Villas. Saman Villas house spectacular spas where one can rejuvenate for a fresher and lively mind and soul. It is well equipped with diverse therapeutic facilities such as reflexology, aromatherapy, fish spa, and hot stone therapy. For a unique spa experience, check out this place during your visit to Bentota. Travelers need to book an appointment much in advance to avail the services of Saman Villas. They are required to carry a pair of clothes along with them.

Must Read: 11 Top Villas In Bentota To Experience Comfort And Luxury Amidst Serene Beach Vibes!


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2. Cycling: Explore The Gorgeous Town

a man cycling in an old town of Sri Lanka

The age-old prominent Hindu places of worship ‘Katukoliha temple’ and the panoramic paddy fields in an idyllic setting is an ideal spot to indulge in cycling. During the course of your journey,t you will come across the stunning mural painting inscribed on the walls of ‘Mullegoda temple’ and turquoise waters of ‘Dedduwa Lake’. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bentota.

Suggested Read: 10 Reasons Why Sri Lanka Should be Your Next Holiday Destination

3. Brief Garden: Spend Time With Your Loved Ones

a garden with structures

Among other best things to do in Bentota is to visit the Brief Garden. It is an enchanting garden, which was designed by a renowned and skilled Sri Lankan artist named ‘Bevis Bawa’. This place stretches over five acres of land and is an embodiment of swaying tropical trees, sculptures, art and magnificent imposing structures. It is a charming and lovely spot to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the city. The entry fee is 350 Sri Lankan rupees. The garden is opened to the public from 8 AM to 5 PM daily.

Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Bentota: Dive Along The Waters Of The Coastal Town

4. Ambalangoda: Shop Your Heart Out

wooden Sri Lanka traditional masks ss01052018

After you have arrived at Bentota and done scouting around for the top things to do in Bentota you might as well head to Ambalangoda. It is a coastal town, which is located at a distance of about twenty-four kilometres away from the city of Bentota. This town boasts of its ancient devil masks and devil dancers. It is located at an altitude of about thirteen meters above the sea level. The town has a plethora of antique shops who supply unique fancy jewellery items at unmatchable prices.

Suggested Read: 38 Soul Satisfying Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Travelers Of All Types

5. Trekking: Walk Through The Trails

a man standing near a waterfall

Take part in trekking/walking trail across the jaw-dropping paddy fields of Bentota-Aturuwella areas. It houses a shrine named ‘Katukoliha temple’, which is as old as one-hundred and twenty-five years. There is a multitude of residential buildings that were constructed in Dutch styles of architecture. It is also an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset. This place is a breeding ground for a vast number of migratory birds. Those visitors who are searching for suitable Bentota things to do should definitely pay a visit to this place during their trip to Bentota, Sri Lanka.

Suggested Read: 10 Bentota Resorts That Showcase The Town’s Tropical Beauty!

6. Bentota Beach: Take A Stroll Here

a lady wearing colourful clothes walking on a beach ss01052018

The town of Bentota has in store plenty of serene and stunning beaches. Out of which Bentota beach is one of them which greets the tourist with swaying coconut trees and picturesque landscapes. It is indisputably an ideal place for nature lovers where they can indulge in recreational water sports including swimming, diving and snorkelling. If you happen to be one of those travel enthusiasts pondering over the question ‘what to do in Bentota Sri Lanka’, a stroll on this lovely beach is the best bet.

Suggested Read: Top 15 Food Paradises of Sri Lanka To Visit On Your Next Trip

7. Balapitiya: Nature Hike Near Madu River

a black bird sitting on a branch

Another top bentota things to do is a visit to the Madu river. It is literally termed as the ‘Madu Ganga River Safari’ located towards the southern part of Galle district. This area is a paradise for both nature and bird enthusiasts since it consists of rich profusion of mangrove trees, exotic varieties of birds etc. Cruise along the rivers of Madu where the tourists would come across more than one hundred eleven species of birds in their natural habitat. There are approximately three hundred species which are indigenous to this region.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Bentota For Your Next Sri Lankan Getaway

8. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: Pay A Visit

a lady carrying a large turtle

One of the must include Bentota things to do is the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. It is a haven for sea turtles and tortoises where the eggs are gathered and preserved until they are hatched. A project named ‘Turtle Hatchery Project’ was introduced with the objective to conserve these species and enhance their survival. The total cost charged for an adult is one hundred whereas no fees are charged for a child.

Suggested Read: See The Best Of Sri Lanka: Ramayana Tour & Beyond

9. Kande Vihara: Take History Lessons

a giant statue of Buddha ss01052018

Other top things to do near Bentota Sri Lanka is checking out ‘Kande Vihara’ which is exclusively meant for those who are historically inclined. Those who wish to have a sneak peek into the history of Bentota and its surrounding areas should definitely pay a visit to this place. Perched atop the hill is owned and
operated by the Government of India.

10. Cinnamon Island: Go For Surfing & Diving

a man surfing on high tides ss01052018

For fun and gaiety, head straight to Cinnamon Island where you can relax in the sand and indulge in other recreational activities like surfing, scuba diving and much more. If you’re an adventurer looking for things to do in Bentota, you must visit the island. It is a charming and lovely small island where travellers can learn the techniques of producing and harvesting cinnamon.

11. Whale Watching Tour: Time To Meet These Marine Creatures

If you are an animal lover and wondering what to do in Bentota then you must opt for whale watching tour where you can see these huge creatures leaping out of blue waters. You can do this activity in club with visiting the fishing at Koggala. Opt for this tour in the afternoon and have a great time witnessing new things. You never know you might fall in love with this place and want to visit it again.

Suggested Read: Nightlife In Bentota: A Small Guide To Enjoy The Soothing Nights Of The Town

12. Water Activities: Get You Heart Pumping

Another one on the list of top things to do in Bentota is to opt for water activities if you are an adventurous person. You can rent a kayak and explore the waters on your own. If you are planning a vacation with your partner then you can opt for jet skiing and ride on the waters. These are some of the best Bentota beach activities that you must opt for.

Further Read: 43 Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka You Must Visit

Bentota is a great place to capture the spirit of the island life. From surfing to hiking, it gives you many opportunities to make your holiday special. Book your next trip to Sri Lanka with TravelTriangle and rejuvenate your senses on a splendid holiday by opting for these things to do in Bentota!

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Bentota

What is there to do in Bentota at night?

One could enjoy nightlife in Bentota at night. There are a lot of bars and clubs in Bentota where you can experience electric ambiance, snazzy music, and tipsy cocktails. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy nightlife in Bentota:
1. Ceysands
2. Golden Grill
3. Sunset Lounge & Bar

How far is Bentota from Colombo?

Bentota is 59 km from Colombo. You could take a bus from Colombo to Bentota as the cities are connected with a good network of buses.

Which are some of the best places to visit in Bentota?

Here are some of the best places to visit in Bentota on your vacation in Sri Lanka.
1. Venture beach
2. Kande Vihara
3. Brief Garden
4. Kosgoda Sea Turtle Project

What is the best time to visit Bentota?

November to April is the best time to visit Bentota as the sea remains calm during this time. You could enjoy water activities and sightseeing.


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