Getting thereAbout 65 km from Colombo, 1.5 hours by road or train
Recommended stay2–4 days
Welcome to Bentota
Discover Bentota
Bentota is where the Bentota River meets the Indian Ocean, creating a long sandbar of golden beach between river and sea. It is one of Sri Lanka's classic resort areas, with elegant hotels, calm swimming seasons and the best water sports on the west coast.
Away from the beach, you can explore Geoffrey Bawa's garden landscapes, turtle hatcheries, mangrove-lined rivers and traditional mask workshops. Bentota is easy to reach from Colombo and the airport, which makes it a good first or last stop on a tour.
Kura's tip
Water sports are best in the morning on the calm river. Save the afternoons for the beach and the sunset.
Top attractions
Things to see in Bentota
7 highlights, from must-see landmarks to local favourites. Tap any photo to view it larger.
Temple
Kande Viharaya
A hilltop temple with one of the largest seated Buddha statues in Sri Lanka, about 48 metres tall.
Garden
Brief Garden
The romantic garden estate of artist Bevis Bawa, filled with sculptures, terraces and tropical planting.
Conservation
Sea Turtle Hatchery
Learn how volunteers protect turtle eggs and release hatchlings into the sea. Five species nest on Sri Lanka's beaches.
Beach
Bentota Beach
A wide, golden beach on a sandbar between the river and the ocean, lined with palms and resort gardens.
Craft
Mask Factory
Watch craftsmen carve and paint traditional masks used in exorcism rituals and folk dance in nearby Ambalangoda.
Garden
Spice Garden
A guided walk among cinnamon, pepper, cloves and nutmeg, with a look at how spices are used in Ayurveda and cooking.
Beach
Induruwa Beach
A quieter stretch of sand south of Bentota, with fewer crowds and a natural, unhurried feel.
Signature experience
The Ultimate Water Sports Bentota
Bentota, Sri Lanka’s premier water sports destination, offers a blend of golden beaches, calm lagoons, and Indian Ocean waters. It offers a variety of water activities, including jet ski riding, wakeboarding, snorkeling and diving, and banana boat and tube rides. The calm waters of the Bentota River provide an exciting yet safe environment for these activities. Wakeboarding combines surfing and waterskiing, while snorkeling and diving explore colorful coral reefs, exotic marine life, and underwater caves. Banana boat and tube rides are fun-filled group activities, perfect for a laugh and excitement. Bentota’s water sports facilities are top-notch, with experienced instructors and quality equipment.
Experience the Madu River Boat Safari, a unique blend of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty in Sri Lanka. Cruise through lush mangrove forests, witnessing the biodiversity of the pristine ecosystem. Observe bird species like kingfishers, herons, and cormorants, as well as endemic reptiles, butterflies, and monkeys. Visit the Kothduwa Temple, a small Buddhist shrine, and experience the traditional fish therapy. The Madu River is also home to prawn farms and cinnamon plantations, offering insight into local livelihoods. Learn about traditional methods of cinnamon peeling and prawn farming, and appreciate the region’s cultural heritage. This safari promises an enriching and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ayurvedic treatments are a holistic wellness practice rooted in Sri Lanka’s heritage. Ayurveda, meaning “the science of life,” balances the mind, body, and spirit through natural therapies and herbal remedies. These treatments are tailored to individual needs, including massages, herbal steam baths, and detoxifying rituals. Shirodhara is a calming treatment, while Panchakarma is a comprehensive detoxification program. Herbal steam baths and Abhyanga are therapeutic full-body massages. These treatments are performed in serene settings, allowing individuals to unwind and reconnect with nature. Ayurvedic treatments offer a transformative journey towards holistic health and wellness, providing relief from stress, chronic ailments, and relaxation.
Kura’s Beachside Honeymoon. Bentota, Sinharaja, Tangalle, Mirissa & Hikkaduwa
Kura’s Hillside Honeymoon. Kandy, Nuwaraeliya, Ella, Belihuloya & Bentota
Kura’s Nature. Pinnawala, Nawalapitiya, Maskeliya, Kitulgala, Sinharaja & Bentota
Kura’s Leisure. Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwaraeliya, Kithulgala & Bentota
