Bentota
Sri Lanka's Golden Coast Paradise
Welcome to Bentota: Where Golden Sands Meet Luxury
Bentota is Sri Lanka's premier beach destination, where pristine golden beaches meet world-class luxury resorts. Located on the southwest coast at the beginning of the Southern Province, this tropical paradise sits at the border between the Southern and Western provinces. It offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a favorite among honeymooners, families, and water sports enthusiasts.
Bentota is an ideal place to enjoy the beach and river. From thrilling water sports on the Bentota River to peaceful turtle watching at nearby hatcheries, from luxurious spa treatments to fresh seafood dining, Bentota provides the ultimate tropical beach experience with Sri Lankan warmth and hospitality.
SW Coast
Did you know?
There is an interesting fact about Bentota that many people don't know. The name "Bentota" is derived from the Sinhalese words "Benthota," which means "river of the benth," referring to the Bentota River that flows through the area. This river is not only a natural beauty but also a vital part of the local ecosystem, supporting diverse wildlife and providing opportunities for water sports and boat rides. There is another interesting story: There was a mythical demon named called "Ben" who once inhabited this area, and the name is believed to have evolved from this ancient legend.
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Private Transfer (Recommended)
- • 1.5-2 hours (90km) via Expressway
- • $40-60 USD
- • Most comfortable & direct
🌟 Recommended: Ceylanka Tours offers reliable, comfortable vehicles with experienced drivers who know the best routes to Bentota. Professional service, fair pricing, and excellent local knowledge make them a top choice for hassle-free travel.
Train (Scenic)
- • 2-2.5 hours, $2-5 USD
- • Ocean views, departs Colombo Fort
Bus
- • 2-3 hours, $1-3 USD
- • Frequent from Colombo Central
🌟 Tip: Book transfers in advance for best rates. Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).
While Bentota is known for its calm waters and safe swimming conditions, it's important to understand ocean safety, especially during monsoon seasons when conditions can change dramatically.
Current Conditions at Bentota:
- • Generally calm waters protected by coral reef
- • Safe swimming most of the year
- • Lifeguards present at major resort beaches
- • Can have strong currents during monsoon (May-September)
Watch Out For:
- • Rip currents near river mouth
- • Stronger waves during southwest monsoon
- • Jet ski and boat traffic in water sports areas
- • Changing conditions with tides
Top Attractions in Bentota
Visiting Bentota without experiencing its main beach?? You will definitely regret it! Bentota's main beach stretches for 5 kilometers of soft golden sand, protected by a coral reef that keeps the waters calm and perfect for swimming. The beach is lined with luxury resorts and offers excellent facilities for visitors.
- Safe swimming with lifeguards
- Beach chairs and umbrellas available
- Multiple beach bars and restaurants
The Bentota River offers calm waters perfect for various water sports activities. From thrilling jet ski rides to peaceful boat safaris through mangrove forests, the river provides adventures for all ages and skill levels.
- Jet skiing and water skiing
- Mangrove boat safaris
- Windsurfing and banana boat rides
Lunuganga is the country home and garden of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's most famous architect. This stunning landscape garden showcases Bawa's vision of tropical modernism and offers breathtaking views of the Bentota lagoon.
- Guided tours of the garden and house
- Stunning lagoon and countryside views
- Architecture and design inspiration
For more details about this architectural masterpiece:
Read more about Lunuganga GardenDid You Know?
Renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa is the architect who designed the Sri Lanka parliament building, Bentota railway station, University of Ruhuna, Heritance Kandalama, and many other iconic buildings in Sri Lanka. In fact Bevis baws was the Geoffrey Bawa's brother.
When you visit Bentota, you can explore five ancient royal temples (Rajamaha Viharas) with rich history and centuries of Buddhist heritage and architecture. These raja maha viharas are interconnected by ancient underground tunnels.
Historical Significance
In ancient times, these five rajamaha viharas were interconnected by underground tunnels. These tunnels were used by Buddhist monks for safe passage between temples. If you visit Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya, you can still see part of that tunnel, and there is also the beginning of the tunnel at Galapatha Viharaya.
Wanawasa Rajamaha Viharaya
One of the most significant ancient temples in Bentota, dating back to the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great. This royal temple is particularly famous for housing one of the best-preserved entrances to the ancient tunnel network.
Key Features
- Ancient tunnel entrance
- 12th-century stone inscriptions
- Traditional image house
- Archaeological museum
Historical Elements
- Polonnaruwa era architecture
- Ancient Buddhist artifacts
- Royal stone inscriptions
Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya
A historic Buddhist temple with great history and rich cultural significance. The temple is renowned for sel lipiya and "Sri Anubudda mahakashyapa" perahara (procession) held annually, attracting devotees from across the region.
Temple Features
- Ancient stone inscriptions
- Ancient tunnel system
- Historic moonstone entrance
- Relic of Sariyuth thera
Cultural Significance
- Annual procession festival
- Ancient tunnel remnants
- Historical guard stones
Udakotuwa Bodhi Sameepa Rajamaha Viharaya
A central temple in the Bentota temple network, known for its serene atmosphere and traditional Buddhist architecture. The temple serves as a vital spiritual hub, hosting important religious ceremonies throughout the year.
Sacred Features
- Traditional image house
- Ancient Buddhist stupa
- Meditation halls
Cultural Activities
- Regular ceremonies
- Buddhist education
- Community gatherings
Bemvehera Gane Rajamaha Viharaya
A historic meditation center renowned for its ancient cave complexes and simple, yet profound architecture. This temple has served as a spiritual retreat for Buddhist monks for centuries, maintaining its peaceful atmosphere to this day.
Meditation Spaces
- Ancient meditation caves
- Quiet reflection areas
- Scenic natural setting
Spiritual Activities
- Guided meditation
- Dhamma discussions
- Monastic retreats
Bodhimaluwa Raja Maha Viharaya
A cherished local temple that holds a special place in the community's heart. Known for its exquisite traditional Buddhist artwork and as a center for important annual ceremonies that bring together devotees from across the region.
Artistic Heritage
- Traditional murals
- Buddhist sculptures
- Decorative craftsmanship
Annual Events
- Vesak celebrations
- Poya day ceremonies
- Cultural festivals
Panchakapaduwa Island is a mystical place that was separated from the mainland centuries ago. This sacred island features ancient temples, meditation retreats, and offers a peaceful escape from the bustling beach life. The island is accessible by boat and provides stunning sunset views.
- Meditation sessions and spiritual retreats
- Ancient temple ruins and artifacts
- Spectacular sunset and sunrise views
A very small and quite railway station located opposite to the Bentota beach, the Bentota Railway Station is another architectural gem by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. The station features a unique design with windows resembling those of airplanes.
- Designed by Geoffrey Bawa
- Nice view of Bentota beach from the station
You can see Sea turtle Hatchery in Bentota, which is a conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of these magnificent creatures,
- Educational tours available
- Baby turtle release experiences
- Support conservation efforts
Wanna see Bentota in bird's eye?
🪂 Para Motoring - Soar Above Bentota Beach
Wanna see Bentota in bird's eye? - Experience breathtaking aerial views
Experience the ultimate aerial adventure with para motoring over Bentota's stunning coastline! This thrilling activity combines the excitement of paragliding with the power of a motorized engine, giving you breathtaking bird's-eye views of the golden beaches, azure waters, and lush green landscape. Professional instructors ensure your safety while you enjoy 15-20 minutes of pure adrenaline and unforgettable views that stretch from the Indian Ocean to the tropical inland scenery.
Duration: 15-20 minutes | Cost: $80-120 USD | Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Coastal Views
Adrenaline Rush
Aerial Photography
Water Sports & Activities
- • Jet skiing ($25-35/30min)
- • Water skiing ($30-40/session)
- • Banana boat rides ($15-20/person)
- • Mangrove boat safari ($20-30/person)
- • River fishing trips ($40-60/half day)
- • Surfing lessons ($20-30/hour)
- • Snorkeling trips ($25-35/person)
- • Deep sea fishing ($80-120/boat)
- • Whale watching (seasonal)
- • Catamaran sailing ($40-60/person)
- • Spa treatments at resorts
- • Ayurvedic massages
- • Bicycle tours
- • Spice garden visits
- • Cultural temple tours
Best Restaurants & Dining
The Palms (Taj Bentota)
Upscale beachfront dining with international cuisine.
Saman Villas Restaurant
Romantic clifftop dining with ocean views.
Diya Sisila Restaurant
Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in elegant setting.
Golden Grill
Fresh seafood and grilled specialties.
The Lagoons, Bentota
Local fishing village with authentic seafood.
Paradise Road Café
Trendy café with light meals and great coffee.
Best Time to Visit Bentota
- • Dry weather, minimal rain
- • Perfect beach conditions
- • Calm seas for water sports
- • Higher prices, more crowds
- • Occasional afternoon showers
- • Good beach weather
- • Better hotel rates
- • Fewer tourists
- • Heavy rainfall
- • Rough seas
- • Limited water sports
- • Lowest prices
What Else to See Nearby
Extend your Bentota adventure with these incredible destinations within easy reach
Lunuganga Garden by Geoffrey Bawa
A masterpiece of landscape architecture offering breathtaking views of hills and the Indian Ocean with stunning artistic design.
Kandeviharaya Temple
Historic Buddhist temple famous for its towering 160-foot seated Buddha statue, ancient Bodhi tree, and colorful murals.
Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa
Beautiful tropical garden showcasing diverse flora and peaceful walking paths, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Kalutara Temple
Historic Buddhist temple featuring an ancient Bodhi tree with a large stupa where devotees can enter and worship inside.
Richmond Castle
Grand colonial mansion blending Indian and British architectural styles with intricate wooden carvings and stained glass windows.
Bentota offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, luxury and authenticity. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports, romantic beachfront dinners, or simply want to unwind on pristine golden sands, this coastal paradise delivers unforgettable experiences.
Don't miss the opportunity to support local conservation efforts at the turtle hatchery, explore the mangrove ecosystems of the Bentota River, and indulge in fresh seafood while watching spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Welcome to Bentota where every day feels like a tropical dream! 🏖️🌊