Bentota, a stunning beach town located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the island nation. Situated approximately 64 kilometers south of Colombo, the commercial capital, Bentota is easily accessible and offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is renowned for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a wide range of activities that cater to all types of travelers, making it one of Sri Lanka’s top tourist attractions.
A Brief Overview of Bentota
Bentota is not just a beach destination; it is a place where history, culture, and nature converge. The town’s name is believed to have originated from a mythical story about a demon named ‘Bem’, who ruled over the river. Today, Bentota is far from being a place of demons; instead, it is a paradise that lures visitors with its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The town is also known for its luxurious resorts and hotels that line the coast, offering world-class amenities and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Bentota’s location, 101 kilometers south of Bandaranaike International Airport, makes it an ideal first stop for tourists arriving in Sri Lanka, as it offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty right after landing.
Bentota Beach and Paradise Island
Bentota’s main attraction is undoubtedly its beach, which stretches for miles along the coast. The beach is known for its soft, golden sand and gentle waves, making it a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. As you move north along the beach, you will come across a narrow strip of land known as Paradise Island. This picturesque stretch of sand is flanked by the Bentota Lagoon on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other, creating a unique and stunning landscape.
Paradise Island is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including exotic birds and fish, and is a popular spot for activities such as jet-skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The calm waters of the lagoon are also perfect for a leisurely boat ride, where you can take in the serene surroundings and perhaps even spot a few monkeys or monitor lizards along the shore.
Exploring Bentota’s Rich Cultural Heritage
While Bentota is primarily known for its beaches, it also has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. One of the must-visit cultural sites in the area is the Kande Viharaya Buddhist Temple. This ancient temple, located just a short drive from Bentota, is home to one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in Sri Lanka, standing at an impressive 48 meters. The temple is a place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists, but it is also open to visitors of all faiths who wish to learn more about Sri Lanka’s religious and cultural traditions.
Another cultural gem near Bentota is Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunuganga Estate. Geoffrey Bawa is considered one of Asia’s most influential architects, and Lunuganga was his country estate, which he transformed into a tropical paradise over a span of 50 years. Today, the estate is open to the public, offering a glimpse into Bawa’s life and work. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature a mix of Italian and Sri Lankan styles, and admire the stunning views of the Bentota River.
A Hub for Water Sports and Outdoor Adventures
Bentota is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all levels of experience. The calm waters of the Bentota Lagoon and the nearby rivers provide the perfect conditions for jet-skiing, windsurfing, and water skiing. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular options.
One of the most popular water-based activities in Bentota is the Madhu River Boat Safari. This excursion takes you on a journey through the lush mangrove forests that line the river, offering a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and even crocodiles. The safari also includes a visit to some of the small islands that dot the river, where you can see traditional Sri Lankan cinnamon cultivation and visit a small Buddhist temple.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Bentota is also a great base for exploring some of Sri Lanka’s national parks. The Udawalawe National Park, located about two hours from Bentota, is famous for its large population of elephants, while Yala National Park, located further south, is known for its leopards. Both parks offer safari tours that provide an unforgettable wildlife experience, where you can see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Diving and Snorkeling in Bentota
Bentota is also a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, thanks to its coral-rich waters and diverse marine life. One of the best dive sites in the area is Canoe Rock, located just off the coast. This underwater paradise is home to a variety of colorful corals, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, there are plenty of dive shops in Bentota that offer lessons and guided dives.
Snorkeling is another great way to explore the underwater world of Bentota. The calm, clear waters make it easy to spot a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea urchins, and coral formations. Many of the hotels and resorts in Bentota offer snorkeling equipment and guided tours, making it easy to get started.
A Taste of Sri Lanka: Culinary Delights in Bentota
No visit to Bentota would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The town is known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen and served in the many beachfront restaurants that line the coast. From grilled lobster and prawn curry to fried calamari and fish cutlets, there is something to satisfy every palate.
In addition to seafood, Bentota also offers a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dishes, such as rice and curry, hoppers (a type of pancake made from fermented rice flour), and kottu roti (a stir-fry made with chopped roti bread, vegetables, and meat). Many of the hotels in Bentota offer cooking classes, where you can learn how to prepare these dishes yourself and take a taste of Sri Lanka home with you.
Conservation Efforts: Protecting Sri Lanka’s Wildlife
Bentota is not only a place to enjoy nature but also a place to learn about the conservation efforts that are being made to protect Sri Lanka’s wildlife. One of the most important conservation projects in the area is the Sea Turtle Conservation Project, located just a short drive from Bentota. This project is dedicated to the protection of sea turtles, which are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and pollution.
The project operates a hatchery, where turtle eggs are collected from the beach and incubated until they hatch. The baby turtles are then released into the sea, giving them a better chance of survival. Visitors to the project can learn about the different species of turtles that are found in Sri Lanka, see the hatchery in action, and even participate in a turtle release.
Day Trips from Bentota: Exploring the Surrounding Area
Bentota’s central location on the southwest coast makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of Sri Lanka. One of the most popular day trips from Bentota is a visit to the historic city of Galle. Located about an hour’s drive south of Bentota, Galle is famous for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture and its UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. The fort is a maze of narrow streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and cafes, and it offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Another popular day trip from Bentota is a visit to Mirissa, a small coastal town that is famous for its whale-watching tours. Mirissa is one of the best places in the world to see blue whales, the largest animals on the planet, as well as sperm whales, dolphins, and other marine life. The whale-watching season in Mirissa runs from November to April, making it a perfect complement to a beach holiday in Bentota.
Why Bentota Should Be on Your Travel Itinerary
Bentota is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, indulge in water sports, or get up close and personal with wildlife, Bentota offers it all. Its convenient location, just a short drive from Colombo and the international airport, makes it an easy addition to any Sri Lankan travel itinerary.
So, if you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to include Bentota in your plans. Whether you spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring the nearby national parks, or learning about the local culture and cuisine, you are sure to leave with unforgettable memories of this tropical paradise.