How to Plan Your Bentota Day Trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla Temple

If you are looking for a unique and memorable day trip from Bentota, a visit to the Sigiriya rock fortress and Dambulla Temple is a must-do. This full-day tour will take you on a journey to discover the ancient cultural and historical values of Sri Lanka. In this blog post, we will guide you through all the information you need to know to plan your trip, including highlights, experience, and a full tour description.

Highlights

During this day trip, you will:

• Admire breathtaking views from the summit of the Sigirya rock fortress
• Inhale the exotic aromas of a Sri Lankan spice garden
• Explore a 1st-century BC Buddhist temple

Experience

You will be picked up from your hotel in Bentota or Kalutara, and embark on a three-hour journey to Sigiriya. Along the way, you will drive through picturesque scenery and small towns, and even stop at a local restaurant for a Sri Lankan breakfast (own expense). Upon arrival in Sigiriya, you will visit the Sigiriya rock fortress. This ancient monument showcases the rich history and artistic capabilities of ancient Sri Lanka. You will be amazed by the various palaces, pools, gardens, and paintings inside the complex. The highlight of the visit is reaching the summit of Sigiriya rock, where you can admire breathtaking views of the surrounding area. After your visit to Sigiriya rock, you will head to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple. This Buddhist temple is one of the oldest temples in the world and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the beautiful Buddhist paintings and statues housed in this cave, and see for yourself the significance of this temple to Sri Lankan history and culture. Finally, you will visit a spice garden. Here, you will learn about the traditional spices grown in Sri Lanka, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. You can inhale their exotic aromas and even purchase some of these spices to take home with you. After your tour concludes, the driver will take you back to your hotel in Bentota or Kalutara.

Full Description

The following is a detailed description of the full-day tour from Bentota to Sigiriya and Dambulla Temple. 1. Pick-up from Bentota or Kalutara You will be picked up from your hotel in Bentota or Kalutara in the early morning by your driver for the day. 2. Drive to Sigiriya You will embark on a three-hour drive to Sigiriya, with a stop at a local restaurant for breakfast (own expense). 3. Visit Sigiriya rock fortress Upon arrival in Sigiriya, your first stop will be the Sigiriya rock fortress. This ancient monument was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century AD and showcases the rich history and artistic capabilities of ancient Sri Lanka. You will be amazed by the various palaces, pools, gardens, and paintings inside the complex. The highlight of the visit is reaching the summit of Sigiriya rock, where you can admire breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 4. Drive to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple After your visit to Sigiriya rock, you will drive for 30 minutes to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple. This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the world and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex consists of five caves, each decorated with beautiful Buddhist paintings and statues. 5. Visit a spice garden After your visit to Dambulla Temple, you will head to a spice garden. Here, you will learn about the traditional spices grown in Sri Lanka and their use in ancient and modern herbal medicine. You can inhale their exotic aromas and even purchase some of these spices to take home with you. 6. Return to Bentota or Kalutara After your tour concludes, the driver will take you back to your hotel in Bentota or Kalutara.

Booking the Tour

To book this tour, visit the following link book the tour here. In conclusion, the Sigiriya rock fortress and Dambulla Temple tour is an excellent way to experience the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. By following our tour guide, you will have a pleasant and memorable day exploring these ancient sites.

Bentota City: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bentota is a beautiful coastal city located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. It is one of the famous tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, especially for those who love water sports, beach activities, and serene environment. If you are planning to visit this beautiful city, then you might have many questions in your mind. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Bentota city:

1. What is the ideal time to visit Bentota?

Bentota is an all-year-round tourist destination. However, the ideal time to visit this beautiful city is from November to April, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there is less rainfall. The temperature ranges between 27°C to 32°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

2. How can I reach Bentota?

Bentota is easily accessible from any part of Sri Lanka. The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, located in Colombo. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a train to reach Bentota. If you are coming by road, you can take a bus or hire a car from any major city in Sri Lanka.

3. What are the popular attractions in Bentota?

Bentota is full of beautiful attractions that offer you a serene and peaceful environment to relax and unwind. Some of the popular attractions in Bentota are:

• Bentota beach
• Lunuganga estate
• Brief Garden
• Kande Vihara Temple
• Galapata Vihara Temple
• Bentota River
• Madu River
• Turtle Hatchery

4. What are the popular water sports activities in Bentota?

Bentota is famous for various water sports activities such as:

• Jet skiing
• Water skiing
• Windsurfing
• Canoeing
• Banana boat riding
• Parasailing
• Diving

5. What are the best places to stay in Bentota?

Bentota has numerous accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best places to stay in Bentota are:

• Taj Bentota Resort and Spa
• Cinnamon Bentota Beach
• Centara Ceysands Resort and Spa
• Vivanta Bentota
• Club Bentota
• Saman Villas

6. What is the local cuisine of Bentota?

The local cuisine of Bentota is a mixture of Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine. Some of the popular dishes you should try in Bentota are:

• Fish Ambulthiyal (Sour Fish Curry)
• Chicken Curry
• Prawn Curry
• Hoppers
• Roti
• Kottu Roti
• Sambal

7. What is the currency used in Bentota, Sri Lanka?

The currency used in Bentota, Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is advisable to carry cash or exchange currency at the airport or authorized exchange offices. Several ATMs are available in Bentota, and most of them accept international credit and debit cards.

8. What are the customs and traditions of Bentota?

Bentota has a unique culture and traditions that reflect its rich history and heritage. The people of Bentota are friendly and hospitable, and they follow various customs and traditions such as:

• Buddhism and Hinduism are the dominant religions
• Festivals such as Vesak and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm
• Conservative clothing is preferred in religious places
• Respect to elders and teachers is highly emphasized
• Shoes are not allowed in religious places and homes

Book Your Tour Now

Bentota is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With serene beaches, beautiful attractions, mouth-watering cuisine, and warm hospitality, Bentota has something for every type of traveler. I hope this FAQ guide helped you plan your visit to Bentota with ease and made your trip a memorable one.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bentota

Bentota is a small town on the south-western coast of Sri Lanka that is becoming increasingly popular with tourists. Known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and rich culture, Bentota is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your time as a tourist in Bentota.

1. Explore the Beaches

Bentota’s beaches are undoubtedly the town’s main attraction. The soft, golden sand and crystal-clear water make them the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There are several beaches to choose from, each with its own unique features. Here are a few of the best:

Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach is the most popular beach in the area and for a good reason. With its long stretch of golden sand, calm waves, and easy accessibility, it’s the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, or take a walk along the shore. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

Induruwa Beach

Induruwa Beach is a quieter, more secluded beach than Bentota Beach. It’s perfect for those looking for a more relaxed and peaceful experience. The beach is also known for its amazing sunsets, so make sure to stick around for one.

Kosgoda Beach

Kosgoda Beach is a popular spot for water sports, particularly surfing. The waves here are perfect for both beginners and more experienced surfers. There are also plenty of places nearby where you can rent surfboards and take lessons.

2. Go on a Boat Tour

One of the best ways to explore Bentota’s beautiful coastline is by boat. There are several boat tours available that will take you on a leisurely journey along the Bentota River and out to sea. You’ll get to see some stunning scenery, including lush mangrove forests, traditional fishing villages, and even some marine life such as turtles and dolphins.

Mangrove Boat Safari

The Mangrove Boat Safari is a popular tour that takes you through the Bentota River’s mangrove forests, home to a wide range of plant and animal species. The tour takes approximately two hours and includes a visit to the nearby fish spa.

Fishermen’s Boat Safari

The Fishermen’s Boat Safari is another popular tour that takes you to a traditional fishing village where you’ll get to see the local fishermen in action. You’ll also get to try your hand at fishing and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch.

3. Visit Local Temples and Attractions

Bentota is home to several temples and historic sites that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage. Here are a few of the best:

Galapata Vihara

Galapata Vihara is a historic temple that dates back to the 12th century. The temple is home to several Buddha statues and frescoes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Lunuganga Estate

Lunuganga Estate was the former home of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The estate is now open to the public and offers a fascinating insight into Bawa’s life and work.

Brief Garden

Brief Garden is another famous Sri Lankan garden that was designed by Bevis Bawa, Geoffrey Bawa’s brother. The garden is home to a wide variety of tropical plants and offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Bentota.

4. Try Local Cuisine

No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine. Bentota has plenty of great restaurants where you can do just that. Here are a few dishes you shouldn’t miss:

Hoppers

Hoppers are a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast dish made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. They’re crispy on the bottom and soft and spongy on the top and are usually served with a range of toppings such as coconut sambal and egg.

Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is another popular Sri Lankan dish made from chopped up roti bread, vegetables, and meat. The mixture is fried on a hot griddle with plenty of spices and is usually served with a spicy curry sauce.

Ceylon Tea

Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, and Bentota is no exception. Make sure to try some of the local Ceylon tea, either by itself or in a delicious milky tea known as Chai.

Book Your Tour Now

Bentota is a beautiful and fascinating destination that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach, explore the local culture and history, or try some of the delicious local cuisine, Bentota has it all. Make sure to follow our guide to make the most of your time as a tourist in this amazing town.