Exploring Bentota’s Beach, River, Mangroves and Wildlife Tours

Have you been dreaming of exploring some beautiful seasides, rivers and lagoon in Sri Lanka? Bentota – a serene beach town in the Galle district – is just the place for it. The sun-kissed coast is filled with crystal clear waters, river lagoons and mangroves. On top of it all, Bentota can also be a great spot to embark on a wildlife tour.

To make the most of your trip to Bentota, in this guide you will find an overview of its best attractions, wildlife tours, and some handy tips on the best times to visit.

Beaches in Bentota

Beautiful palm-fringed beaches swing along the coast of Bentota, offering a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and recreational activities like yachting and angling. Popular sites for beach hoppers include Paradise Island, North Sea, and Bentota Beach.

The Paradise Island, connected to Bentota Beach by a bridge offers a range of activities for the whole family. Relax by the beach with a session of sunbathing and a meal from one of the nearby restaurants. Escape from the heat and cool off with a dip in the sea. For an adrenaline rush, book a canoe ride along the river lagoons and mangroves.

River and Mangroves in Bentota

The Bentota River is an important source of freshwater in the region. It is also considered an environmental hotspot, as it meets with the waters from the Indian Ocean. This thriving habitat is home to mangroves, fishes, crabs and birds.

Kayaking along Bentota River is one of the most popular activities for visitors to this area. You can observe fascinating birds, such as hawk-billed terns and zoological species like kingfishers like there is no tomorrow. You can even spot reptiles like Indian chameleons, whilst enjoying the rustles of its lagoons.

For an unforgettable experience, hire a traditional boat and explore the waters by sunset. During this time of the day, you can enjoy some breathtaking views of the sun setting over the horizon.

Wildlife Tours in Bentota

If you’re looking to explore more than just beaches and scenery on your stay in Bentota, then embarking on a wildlife tour is for you. Explore Turtle Hatchery – a conservation center for turtles and tortoises maintained by the Wild Life Department of Sri Lanka. The site offers protected nesting habitats for marine species such as Olive Ridley and Green Turtles, as well as opportunities to breed them and release them into the wild.

Another great site for wildlife tours is Madu River Safari Boat Safari, located at Balapitiya in Galle. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the mangroves of Madu River where you can see some of the animals in their habitat. Crocodiles and water monitors are among some of its main attractions. You will also have an opportunity to observe various bird species including herons and kingfishers that live in this area.

Best Time to Visit Bentota

A lot of factors can influence your plans during your stay in Bentota. To have the best experience possible, we recommend visiting during dry season, between January and April as these months tend to be less humid. During these months, rainfall is minimal, offering more comfort by the beach and during your tours. Another aspect to consider when visiting is avoiding dolphin season at Rekawa Beach. The best time to visit is between late October and April.

Conclusion

Bentota offers much more than beaches, rivers and mangrove forests for its visitors. When planning your trip here, it’s worth considering the best time to visit and be aware of some of its most interesting activities such as visiting Turtle Hatchery or Madu River Safari Boat Safari which both promise captivating sightings of local wildlife that this destination has to offer. Have you decided to visit Bentota? Don’t wait any longer! Book your perfect Sri Lanka adventure at GetYourGuide today.

An Insider’s Guide to Bentota: Explore the Beach, River, Mangroves, and Wildlife Tours

If you’re looking for a unique and undiscovered destination for your next vacation, you should add Bentota to your list of must-visit places. This small town in the coastal area of Sri Lanka has become increasingly popular with tourists who are looking for the perfect beach getaway. However, Bentota offers much more than just sun and sand; it also presents a rich blend of wildlife, culture, and local cuisine. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Bentota.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Bentota has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are a few hidden gems that only the locals know about. The first hidden gem is the Lunuganga Estate, the country home of the famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. This beautiful garden covers five hectares and is filled with lush plants and fascinating sculptures.

Another must-visit destination is a small oasis called the Brief Garden. This garden has a breathtaking collection of sculptures, including Buddha statues, with intricately carved designs and is perfect for architecture enthusiasts.

Lastly, Madu River is a stunning body of water that winds through the mangrove forests. This river is the perfect spot to see a diverse range of flora and fauna, including monkeys and water birds.

Exciting Dining Spots in Bentota

Besides the mesmerizing natural settings, Bentota offers a rich blend of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The town has plenty of restaurants and cafes serving delectable food made from freshly caught sea-food. For those with adventurous taste-buds, some of the must-try local dishes include Kottu Roti, a dish made from shredded roti and vegetables, and Pol Sambol, a traditional coconut condiment. You can find the best local food at Ambrosia Café and Kandoori and Samy’s Restaurant.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Local Traditions

Sri Lanka is renowned for its culture and traditional festivals, and Bentota is no exception. The town is home to several cultural festivals and events that visitors can experience to immerse themselves in the local traditions. One of the notable cultural events is the Kandy Esala Perahera, a ten-day festival held in July or August every year. This festival features traditional music, dance, and the colorful parade of decorated elephants. Bentota is also home to the Kosgoda Blowhole and Turtle Hatchery, where visitors can learn about the cultural significance of turtles in Sri Lankan culture.

Local History: Uncovering Bentota’s Rich Past

Bentota’s rich history can be traced back to the Dutch colonial period in Sri Lanka. Evidence of the Dutch East India Company’s influence can be seen in the town’s architecture and streetscape. Visitors can explore the historical site of the Dutch Fort, which dates back to the 17th century.

Another key site in Bentota is the Kachchimale Mosque, built-in 1309 AD, which is considered to be one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka. Visitors can witness a fusion of different cultures in this mosque, highlighting the importance of peaceful co-existence in Sri Lankan culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Get Adventurous

If you’re looking for an adventure, then Bentota has plenty of options for you. One of the most exciting things to do is a riverboat tour that takes you through the mangrove forests. You can spot a wide range of flora and fauna while listening to the sounds of the wilderness. For adrenaline junkies, a thrilling water-sports experience awaits at the Bentota Beach where you can go kite-surfing, windsurfing, and parasailing. If you’re interested in learning about Ayurveda, the ancient herbal healing system of Sri Lanka, there are several spas, including the Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Spa, which offer authentic Ayurveda wellness treatments.

In conclusion

Bentota presents an exciting blend of natural beauty, culture, and local cuisine, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation. Apart from the hidden gems mentioned in this insider’s guide, there are plenty of other exciting attractions and activities to explore in Bentota. We hope you enjoyed this insider’s guide and that it will help you make the most out of your trip to Bentota.