Explore the Beauty of Bentota, Sri Lanka
Bentota, a tropical paradise nestled on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Known for its golden sandy beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage, This area offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, what to do in Bentota, Sri Lanka will keep you captivated.
Things to Do in Bentota
Bentota Beach
- This area is famous for its beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
Boat Ride on the Bentota River
- The Bentota River is a beautiful waterway that flows through the town. Visitors can take a boat ride and enjoy the scenery, observe wildlife, and visit the nearby mangrove forests.
Brief Garden
- Brief Garden is a beautiful garden that was once the home of the renowned Sri Lankan landscape artist, Bevis Bawa. Visitors can explore the garden and admire its beautiful landscapes and sculptures.
Kande Vihara Temple
- The Kande Vihara Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Bentota. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Fishing
- Fishing is a popular activity in Bentota. Visitors can go fishing on the river or take a deep sea fishing tour to catch a variety of fish.
Lunuganga Estate
- The Lunuganga Estate is another beautiful garden that was once the home of Bevis Bawa. Visitors can take a tour of the estate and learn about its history and architecture.
Turtle Watching Tour
- Bentota is a popular spot for turtle watching. Visitors can take a tour and observe these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
A Day Trip to Galle
- Galle is a historic town located near Bentota. Visitors can take a day trip and explore its fort, museums, and other historic landmarks.
Ayurvedic Spa Treatments
- Bentota is known for its Ayurvedic spa treatments, which are a form of traditional medicine. Visitors can enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments to relax and rejuvenate.
Getting to Bentota
Bentota is easily accessible from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. The distance between Colombo and Bentota is approximately 65 kilometers, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car or taxi. If you’re flying into Sri Lanka, the nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), just over an hour’s drive away. You can also travel by train from Colombo, which offers scenic views along the way.
Weather
Bentota enjoys a tropical climate, with year-round sunshine and warm temperatures. The average temperature in Bentota ranges between 25°C to 30°C. The wet season typically runs from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April. During the dry season, you can enjoy clear skies, perfect for beach activities and water sports.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bentota is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers ideal weather for beach lovers, as the weather is warm and sunny. For those who enjoy water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, or diving, this is the perfect time to experience the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Folklores Associated with the Sites
According to legend, the Kande Viharaya Temple was built by a giant named Kandayama, who carried a boulder on his head to the site where the temple now stands. The boulder is still on display at the temple, and locals believe that it has healing powers.

Travel Tips
- Currency: The local currency is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Ensure to exchange your currency before you arrive or at local banks.
- Health & Safety: Tap water in Sri Lanka may not always be safe to drink; opt for bottled water. Also, keep sunscreen and insect repellent handy.
- Language: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Contact Us
For more information about what to do in bentota, Sri Lanka, or to plan your dream holiday, feel free to contact us!
Email: info@overatours.co.uk
Phone: +44 203 468 5996