What You Should Know About Bentota Beach, River Mangroves and a Wildlife Tour in Bentota

Whether you’re a nature-lover or just curious, a trip to the Bentota Beach, River Mangroves, and a Wildlife Tour in Bentota is something you should consider while in Sri Lanka. This gorgeous stretch of coastline offers some truly incredible natural beauty, and the wildlife tour will easily be one of the highlights of your trip. Bentota Beach is located on the West Coast of Sri Lanka, not far from Colombo. It’s known for its stunning seascape, with long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip, and there’s plenty to do while you’re in the area. From relaxing on the sand to snorkeling or sailing, you certainly won’t be bored! The Bentota River is a tributary of the Bentota Estuary, and it’s part of the great Brahangana River system. This river is famous for its mangroves and other vegetation that has made it a paradise for fish and turtles. A boat tour on this magical river is an incredible experience and one that you won’t forget anytime soon! If you’re looking to get close to some of nature’s most spectacular creatures, consider booking a Wildlife Tour in Bentota. This tour will take you to some of the area’s most renowned wildlife reserves, including the Bentota Bird Sanctuary and the Mout Lavinia National Park. Here, you’ll witness everything from elephants and water buffalo to wild boars, jackals, and even leopards! It’s the perfect way to get up close and personal with Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife. Booking a wildlife tour in Bentota can be done online with ease. Simply go to GetYourGuide or another similar booking platform and search for wildlife tours in Bentota—there are plenty to choose from! You can usually book one-day or multiple-day packages, so you can choose a tour that fits your schedule and your budget. To ensure you have an unforgettable experience, it’s important to do some research beforehand. Check out what sorts of wildlife you might see during your tour—for instance, some wildlife reserves feature elephants while others are home to jackals or wild boar—and look up reviews to see what other travelers have thought of their tours. Additionally, it’s important to understand the local regulations and policies when it comes to interactions with animals—ask your tour guide about these things so that you know how to act responsibly. Overall, planning a tour to explore the Bentota Beach, River Mangroves, and a Wildlife Tour in Bentota provides an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose to visit for one day or many days, you won’t soon forget the beauty and unique environment of this special slice of Sri Lanka. So, make sure you book your tour soon—you won’t regret it!

An Insider’s Guide to Bentota, Sri Lanka

Bentota is a stunning resort city situated along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The city is known for its pristine beaches, mangroves, and wildlife tours. Bentota is an excellent destination for those who want to relax on the beach or immerse themselves in nature. Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying your visit to Bentota.

Attractions

There are a host of attractions in Bentota for travelers to enjoy; here are some of the most popular:

– Bentota Beach: Bentota is most famous for its gorgeous beach, which stretches for miles. The waters are calm and perfect for swimming, while the soft sand is perfect for lounging in the sun.

– River Mangroves: Take a leisurely boat ride through the lush mangroves that line the Bentota River. These mangroves are home to a plethora of wildlife, including tropical birds and water monitors.

– Brief Garden: This stunning garden was once owned by Bevis Bawa, the brother of famed architect Geoffrey Bawa. The garden is home to an incredible collection of plants, sculptures, and design features. Visitors can tour the garden and learn about its history.

Dining

Bentota has a thriving dining scene, with options ranging from street food to fine dining. Here are some of the best places to eat:

– The Loft: This popular restaurant serves up a mix of Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The menu includes a range of dishes, from delicious curries to fresh seafood.

– Golden Grill: This beachside restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner. The menu includes fresh seafood and a variety of Sri Lankan specialties.

– La Casita: This restaurant serves up some of the best Mexican food in Bentota. The menu includes classic dishes such as tacos and enchiladas, as well as innovative cocktails.

Cultural Experiences

There are a number of cultural experiences available in Bentota, from visiting traditional temples to exploring local markets. Here are some of the best options:

– Kande Viharaya: This iconic temple is located just a short drive from Bentota and is known for its impressive statue of Lord Buddha. Visitors can also take part in meditation sessions and learn about the history of the temple.

– Lunuganga: This estate was once owned by famed architect Geoffrey Bawa and is now open to visitors. The estate includes beautiful gardens, unique architecture, and a museum dedicated to Bawa’s life and work.

– A traditional mask maker: This traditional mask maker is located in the nearby city of Ambalangoda and is a great place to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich cultural history. Visitors can watch as the masks are made and buy them as souvenirs.

Local History

Bentota has a fascinating history, with influences from both colonial powers and Sri Lanka’s own cultural heritage. Here are some of the best historical sites to visit:

– Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya: This ancient temple dates back to the 12th century and contains a number of well-preserved artifacts, including a stone Buddha statue and intricate carvings.

– Beruwela Lighthouse: This lighthouse is a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial past. It was built by the British in the early 20th century and offers stunning views of the coastline.

– Cinnamon Island: This small island is located in the nearby town of Ahungalla and is known for its cinnamon plantations. Visitors can take a tour of the island and learn about the production of cinnamon.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While there’s plenty to do in Bentota, there are also some lesser-known attractions that are worth checking out. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Kanneliya Forest Reserve: This nature reserve is located just a short drive from Bentota and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and leopards. Visitors can take guided tours of the reserve and learn about the importance of conservation.

– Madu Ganga River Safari: This river safari takes visitors through the mangroves of the Madu Ganga River, where they can spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and crocodiles.

– Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda Beach: This hatchery is dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s sea turtle population. Visitors can take a tour of the hatchery and even release baby turtles into the ocean.

Conclusion

Bentota is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore local culture and history, there’s something for everyone in Bentota. This insider’s guide should help you make the most of your visit to this stunning city.