Things to do in Bentota – Sri Lanka Southern Coast
Bentota Beach
Spend a leisurely day soaking up the sun on Bentota Beach. The golden sands and clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and beach activities.
Water Sports
Engage in a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. Bentota’s calm waters make it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts of all levels. Head to a water sports center to rent equipment or book guided tours for activities like snorkeling, and diving.
Madu River Boat Safari
Embark on a scenic boat safari along the Madu River, a mangrove-lined estuary teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. Explore islands, visit cinnamon plantations, and experience fish spa therapies.
Turtle Hatchery and Conservation Centres
Visit a turtle hatchery and conservation center to learn about turtle conservation efforts in Sri Lanka. Witness baby turtles being released into the sea and gain insight into the challenges facing sea turtles.
Kande Viharaya Buddhist Temple
Kande Viharaya, also known as Aluthgama Kande Viharaya or Kande Viharaya Temple, is a prominent Buddhist temple located near Bentota in Sri Lanka.
Visit Brief Garden
Explore Brief Garden, the former home and garden of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Wander through lush tropical gardens adorned with sculptures, statues, and water features.
Lunuganga Estate
Take a guided tour of Lunuganga Estate, another creation of Geoffrey Bawa. This sprawling garden estate showcases Bawa’s architectural vision and landscaping skills amidst serene natural surroundings.
Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines
The Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines, located in the village of Meetiyagoda in Sri Lanka’s southern region, are renowned for their production of moonstones, a unique and iridescent gemstone. Traditional mining methods are employed at the Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines, with workers using hand tools and simple machinery to extract moonstones from the earth. Visitors can observe the mining process and learn about the techniques used by local miners.
Ambalangoda Ariyapala Mask Museum
Ambalangoda is famous for its traditional mask-making industry, which has been practiced for centuries. These intricately carved wooden masks are used in traditional Sri Lankan dance performances and rituals. Visitors can explore the Ariyapala Mask Museum to learn about the history and craftsmanship of Ambalangoda’s masks. The museum showcases a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary masks, along with demonstrations of maskmaking techniques.
