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    Our favourites in and around Bentota

    A curated guide of the 10 best experiences for couples
    This charming town boasts a unique landscape with pristine beaches, a tranquil lagoon and a calm river, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic chapter of your Sri Lankan love story. Often top-of-mind for seaside resorts, Bentota offers so much more. A vibrant culture, acres of manicured gardens, spa sanctuaries and a top-notch restaurant scene with a focus on seafood are all pleasures this coastal town offers.

    Madu Ganga River Safari

    Madu-Ganga-River-Safari

    Madu Ganga River Safari

    Bentota offers two riverboat experiences, one on the Bentota River and the other a short drive of 19 kilometres away in Balapitiya, Madu Ganga. A serene wetland teeming with life, a riverboat safari lets you experience the diverse ecosystem from the comfort of a motor boat.

    The lush and dense mangrove forests that call this river home are a vital part of the ecosystem, providing nourishment and sanctuary to the local wildlife while protecting the land from erosion and decay. A vibrant habitat, the mangroves offer an exploration that feels like something out of a movie, with skilled boatmen gently navigating the dense jungle. Be prepared to encounter a variety of bird species, monkeys, water monitors and even the occasional crocodile. Kingfishers and butterflies flitting through the branches add a touch of colour to the whole scene.

    The Madu Ganga estuary has several islands, and your boat tour will take you to the most famous ones, including Cinnamon Island, where a few families live and cultivate the world-famous spice Ceylon Cinnamon. Engaged in this trade for generations, the families here will educate you about the age-old tradition of harvesting this fragrant spice.

    One of the larger islands, Koth Duwa, is famous for its ancient Buddhist temple. History tells that this temple was where one of the original 32 saplings of the sacred Bo Tree, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, was brought and planted during the reign of King Parakramabahu IV ( 1302-1326 A.D.).

    Brief Gardens by Bevis Bawa

    Brief Gardens by Bawa

    Brief Gardens by Bevis Bawa

    About 10 km from Bentota lies a beautifully manicured garden of flowers, shrubs, vines, and trees. This verdant, enchanting oasis was designed by Bevis Bawa, the brother of Sri Lanka's famed architect Geoffrey Bawa. Engage in a romantic escape amidst a captivating blend of nature and art.

    The gardens expertly showcase a fusion of Sri Lankan plant life with Italian and English influences. Over 100 varieties of trees and blooms combine to create a breathtaking tapestry of colours and fragrances. A talented artist, Bevis Bawa skillfully crafted many sculptures laid out in the garden and masterpieces from other renowned artists displayed throughout the sprawling garden.

    The Brief Garden is also steeped in history. This former home and estate of Bevis Bawa once hosted illustrious global figures like Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh.

    Choose a guided tour and learn the deeper secrets of this garden paradise. Unwind by a tranquil pond teeming with life or lose yourselves in the whimsical charm of the "vegetation-covered house," a testament to his artistic vision.

    Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project

    Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project

    Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project

    Turtle conservation is a vital project across the southern beach areas. Learn about endangered turtles, observe the eggs of various turtle species, and watch baby turtles flapping in the tanks, being protected and nurtured until they are released back into the ocean. While you may see many small conservation hatcheries along Bentota, we recommend visiting the more significant and engaging Kosgoda Hatchery, about 9 km away.

    This beach area is home to five of the seven species of sea turtles. Volunteers and generous donors run it. The volunteers patrol the beaches, observing the nesting places of the turtle mothers and bringing them back to the hatchery for protection from other animals and people. The project usually involves the participation of locals who live on the beach and fishermen who sell any eggs they encounter to the incubator for protection.

    Your visit isn't just about observation; the centre usually encourages visitors to join them on night patrol ( during the egg-laying season) to observe and collect turtle eggs. Inquire at the centre for the schedule and the price for this. The hatcheries are also a sanctuary for disabled and injured turtles, which are cared for in the centre.

    Kande Viharaya

    Kande Viharaya

    Kande Viharaya

    This historic 18th-century hilltop temple complex is a window into Bentota and Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Encounter the towering majesty of a 160-foot Buddha statue, believed to be one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in the world.

    An iconic temple of the south, Kande Viharaya isn't just about impressive statues. The sacred ground here is home to a 300-year-old Bodhi tree, a revered tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. The temple grounds also have an ancient relic chamber, the oldest structure on the site. The intricate architectural details of the Upulvan Devalaya and other smaller temples in the compound are also worth a visit.

    Tip: As a respected place of worship, dress appropriately with shoulders and knees covered.

    Bentota River Safari

    Bentota River Safari

    Bentota River Safari

    If time does not permit a visit to Madu River, the Bentota River Safari offers an equally captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka's diverse biodiversity and estuarine ecosystems. Best explored during the morning or evening, this pristine ecosystem is right in the heart of Bentota and promises an intimate and fascinating boat safari. Keep your eyes peeled for sunbathing crocodiles basking on the protruding rocks or beside the riverbank. A haven for birdlife, reptiles, and monkeys, the mangrove is integral to protecting this environment.

    One of the safari's highlights is winding through the shallow lagoons of the dense mangroves. In this enchanting and tranquil setting, the intricate mangrove roots create a captivating maze teeming with life.

    As you glide on the river, learn about the mangroves, their different varieties, and the resident wildlife. If you're lucky, a local boatman may bring over a baby crocodile for you to hold and take pictures.

    Geoffrey Bawa Garden Lunuganga

    Geoffrey Bawa Gardens Lunuganga

    Geoffrey Bawa Garden Lunuganga

    Discover an Eden-like paradise, about 10 km from the centre; Lunuganga. Once the private estate and home of the world-famous architect Geoffrey Bawa, this enchanting landscape features a captivating blend of nature, art, and history and is perfect for a romantic interlude.

    Lunuganga, meaning "Salt River" in Sinhalese, was Bawa's masterpiece a "garden within a larger garden." A former plantation, Bawa used all his creative energy to transform it into what it is today.

    With numerous pathways leading to a hidden corner, the spaces are perfect for relaxing, intimate strolls and quiet walks of admiration. The local flora nurtured by this genius comes into focus at every turn for a mesmerising experience.

    As a talented artist and architect, Lunuganga's magic extends beyond its verdant majesty. The estate boasts artistic pieces throughout the grounds as part of his creative vision.
    Today, the former estate bungalow inside the garden is a Boutique Hotel. The hotel’s open-plan restaurant is set amidst a beautiful lake for romantic dining with a delightful mix of culinary treats.

    Famous for its innovative Asian fusion and Sri Lankan classic, the restaurant caters to various palates and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

    Travel Tip: Combine the Brief Gardens visit with Lunuganga.
    If you wish to dine here, make a reservation in advance.

    Ambalangoda's Mask-Making Tradition

    Ambalangoda's Mask-Making Tradition

    Ambalangoda's Mask-Making Tradition

    Enjoy a fascinating day out exploring the fascinating craft of Sri Lankan mask making. Ambalangoda is the most famous town in the country for its skilled mask artisans, an art usually handed down from father to son, mother to daughter. Even today, most mask-making families in the city trace their art back to at least five generations of mask crafting!
    The town offers the opportunity to take a class and learn the secrets of mask-making, followed by the chance to carve your creation.

    The Mask styles fall into three main categories:

    Raksha: The striking "demon" masks on postcards and paintings. These masks feature bold and sometimes hideous features and vibrant colours for attention, often used in festivals and ceremonies.

    Sanni: Mostly used in island exorcism rituals as a healing tool, these masks depict various ailments.

    Kolam: Born during colonial times, these satirical masks lampooned society, especially the colonial masters, through the artistry of the masks.

    Take the class and create your masterpiece or buy a fascinating mask souvenir to adorn your home, something truly Sri Lankan and unique.

    Tip: The Ariyapala Mask Museum in Ambalangoda offers workshops, educational tours, and a mask souvenir shop.

    Water Sports

    Water Sports

    Water Sports

    Bentota's calm lagoon, river setting, and beach offer water sports adventures and thrills. With activities catering to all skill levels and tones of excitement, engage in your favourite adventure sport, choosing from options such as wakeboarding, doughnut rides, banana boats, jet skiing, water skiing, fly fishing, deep sea, and sport fishing off the coastal waters.

    Tip: Bentota has a host of adventure sports companies offering your favourite watersport activities. Check the weather and book in advance!

    Diving and Snorkeling

    Diving and Snorkeling in Bentota

    Diving and Snorkeling

    The waters off Bentota are teeming with corals and marine life for a captivating underwater adventure. Snorkel or go on a deep dive and discover the wonders of the Bentota underwater sanctuaries. The clear waters with excellent visibility for diving allow you to swim beside colourful reef fish in the warm southern waters.

    Tip: Bentota has several companies offering certified diving courses for novices and equipment and guides for snorkelling. Ensure to check certifications and safety protocols.

    Galapata Raja Maha Vihara

    Galapata Raja Maha Vihara

    Galapata Raja Maha Vihara

    This ancient Buddhist temple, dating back to the 12th century, is a captivating centre of Buddhist worship and culture.

    Featuring stone pathways, arched artistic doorways, paintings and statues, the temple has been subject to damage and reconstructed throughout its history yet remains a staunch reminder of the resilient Buddhist culture of the region.

    As you enter, notice a pathway built entirely of stone leading towards the temple entrance. The arched doorway is laden with carved monolith pillars carved with “Nari Latha” ( flowers in the shape of women) motifs.

    Inside the temple is a collection of magnificent wall paintings of Jataka stories, stories of the Buddha’s past lives before enlightenment. The main highlight is a 25-foot-long reclining Buddha statue.

    The temple's many architectural styles are due to damages sustained during the Dutch invasion. This led to its reconstruction, and artefacts from other temples nearby of different eras with distinctly different styles were placed in them.

    The temple has an intriguing and hidden past. Stories of a network of underground tunnels in the complex connect it to other sites. Archaeological findings here also include a fascinating stone water filter, a testament to the ingenuity of the island's ancestors.

    Conclusion

    Not just about the beach, Bentota beckons a deeper dive into its cultural, natural, and historical sites of the coastal town. With excellent facilities and easy access, Bentota has many fun and passion-sparking activities for honeymoon and romantic couples to enjoy, as laid out in this guide.

    Speak to Our Concierge
    Telephone
    +94 76 757 8865
    whatsapp
    +94 76 757 8865
    Address
    2D,
    Inner Bagatalle Road,
    Colombo 03,
    Sri Lanka.

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