Dreaming of a Sri Lankan coastal getaway? Imagine sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters and swaying coconut trees – sounds pretty dreamy, right?
If this is your idea of an ideal beach getaway, Bentota is calling your name!
Nestled between Colombo and Galle on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, Bentota is a charming coastal playground for relaxation and adventure.
Craving a hit of adrenaline? Bentota offers water sports galore - from jet skiing across clear waters to parasailing and diving to witness the vibrant marine life. If chilling is more your vibe, no problem! Bentota has you covered. Simply head to the beach, sink your toes into the soft sand and feel the warmth of the tropical sun kiss your skin as you lose yourself in a captivating book. Ah, pure bliss.
But wait, there’s more! Bentota’s charm extends beyond its beaches. Steeped in history and culture this town also offers a mix of architectural masterpieces, religious sites and natural wonders that will have you scrambling to fit everything into your itinerary.
Unveiling the History of Bentota
Bentota’s idyllic beaches and laid-back vibes are a far cry from the tales of its past. Back in the day, it was believed that a mythical demon named Bemrakusa haunted the Bentota River.
According to folklore, this demon preyed upon unsuspecting souls from ancient tribes like the Yakka, Naga, Devas and Raksha who dared to cross the waters. If you wanted to cross the river, seeking protection from the deities was important. Otherwise, you might just become another victim of the demon, or so the legend goes.
However, there’s more to Bentota than spooky folklore. Owing to its strategic location, the city fell from the hands of one empirical power to another. The Portuguese built a fort (Parangi Kotuwa), which got a makeover under Dutch rule. This fort then underwent transformation from a defensive structure to a comfy rest house for weary travellers with the British following suit. And here we are today – a tourist hotspot that’s a far cry from its demon-ridden past.
Top Things To Do in Bentota
From mythical beginnings to a popular tourist destination, Bentota promises a captivating blend of culture, history and natural beauty. When you visit Bentota, you’ll realise that the beaches are just the tip of the iceberg. With so many experiences, Bentota is a treat for every traveller.
Here are some top picks for an unforgettable Bentota adventure:
Bentota Beach
Adorned by broad, long and golden sandy beaches, Bentota is the ideal spot for relaxation and family adventure. It’s perfect for kids to build sandcastles or for you to simply sink your toes in the sand and soak up the sun. With its clear waters and gentle waves, swimming in the ocean is a refreshing experience. However, remember to stay closer to the shore, as the waves can get rough when you go too far out.
Since the beach boasts luxury resorts and villas, it can get crowded and lively. But don’t worry because there’s plenty of space for everyone to unwind or engage in endless water sports adventures.
Fancy speed boating, windsurfing or water skiing? It’s time for you to gear up. If a more leisurely pace is your thing, don’t worry, you’ve got options. You can opt for a leisurely ride in a banana boat, explore the Bentota River in a canoe or cruise along the river in an open boat. The choice is all yours!
Lunuganga Estate
Imagine a haven where nature and design intertwine in an intricate dance. Nestled amidst the lush landscape of Bentota lies Lunuganga Estate, a whimsical paradise envisioned by the legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Lunuganga, which translates to “Salt River” in Sinhala, boasts a rich history. Once a rubber plantation, it’s now a testament to Bawa’s vision, dedication and artistic spirit poured into the estate for decades.
Wandering through the estate, every turn unveils a hidden gem—a hidden pathway, a serene pond adorned with water lilies, classical sculptures, and courtyards bathed in sunlight. Indoor spaces seamlessly blend in with the outdoors, creating a sense of harmony and flow that starkly contrasts the usual disconnect we experience between the two.
Lunuganga isn’t just a visual treat, it’s a sanctuary for your soul. It’s an invitation to step back, reconnect with nature and immerse yourself in nature.
Today, this masterpiece continues working its magic. Lovingly restored and transformed into a boutique hotel, it now welcomes guests. Imagine booking a stay and experiencing the essence of Bawa’s genius firsthand.
Brief Garden
Bentota boasts not just stunning beaches but also treasure troves like Bevis Bawa’s Brief Garden.
Bevis Bawa is a soldier turned landscape architect who poured his love for land into this masterpiece. Much like Lunuganga Estate, Brief Garden is a testament to the Bawas' creative spirit.
When you step inside, you are surrounded by lush greenery. As you continue exploring, a symphony of flora unfolds before you, inviting you to linger and soak in this verdant spectacle. Each corner is an invitation to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty surrounding us.
Meticulously designed pathways guide you deeper into the heart of the garden where you’ll find Bevis Bawa’s residence. Stepping inside the main house, once Bevis’s haven, is like stepping into a whole new world where erotic sculptures and captivating artwork adorn the space
What began as a labour of love in the 1920s offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Brief Garden continues to thrive, a testament to his legacy. Even today, it’s a place to lose yourself in the beauty of nature and marvel at the creative spirit that brought it all together.
Madu River Boat Safari
Imagine a boat ride on the Madu Ganga River amidst a labyrinth of mangroves, sunlight dappling the water and diverse wildlife species peeking out from the lush foliage. This is what the Madu Ganga River safari has in store for you. If you are a nature and wildlife enthusiast, it’s a must-do!
Madu Ganga is a biodiversity hotspot that plays a crucial role in preserving the delicate balance of the environment. As you cruise along its tranquil waters, you’ll find a wide array of wildlife, from playful monkeys swinging through trees to water monitors gliding silently beneath the water and exotic birds filling the air with their songs.
In addition to the exotic wildlife, Madu Ganga also boasts a network of 64 islands, each with its unique charm. If you are a curious adventurer, you can visit Cinnamon Island, where you can experience firsthand the traditional process of Sri Lankan cinnamon production. This island has sprawling cinnamon plantations dating back to the 1900s blanketing acres of land.
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Bentota is a city that keeps surprising its visitors. One such surprise is the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a haven for endangered sea turtles.
With these creatures facing threats from predators and poachers, this hatchery works tirelessly to protect these turtles by providing a safe haven for them.
A visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is more than just sightseeing. It’s an opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures, learn about their life cycle, and contribute to the efforts to protect them. You may even be able to participate in releasing the hatchlings to the ocean – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s sure to leave an indelible mark.
Kande Viharaya
Nestled on a hilltop near Aluthgama, the Kande Viharaya beckons with its rich history and profound spiritual significance. This iconic Buddhist temple is a must-visit for any traveller seeking cultural immersion in Sri Lanka.
You’ll be awestruck as you approach the temple with the breathtaking sight that awaits you – a colossal seated Buddha statue that towers at an impressive 160 feet, claiming its place as one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in the world.
While this awe-inspiring statue steals the spotlight, Kande Viharaya offers more treasures, including a library, museum, and several shrines dedicated to Hindu deities waiting to be explored.
The coastal city of Bentota offers something for every traveller. From stunning beaches and thrilling water sports to historical and cultural gems, Bentota is sure to leave a lasting impression in your heart.
So, pack your bags and get ready to experience this paradise for yourself. At Fernando Travels, we’ll be your guide, helping you plan the perfect trip to Sri Lanka.
Bentota awaits!