Bentota, situated on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and tranquil ambiance. Historically referred to as "Ben-Tota" in ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, meaning "the harbor on the river bend," Bentota has been a significant trading post due to its strategic location where the Bentota River meets the Indian Ocean. By the 1980s, it evolved into a prominent beach resort destination, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and hospitality.
The optimal time to visit Bentota is between December and April, during the dry season, offering ideal conditions for beach activities and water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing. The weather is most settled between January and March, making it perfect for outdoor exploration.
📍 3 km | ⏱️ 8 minutes
A pristine stretch of golden sand ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
📍 10 km | ⏱️ 20 minutes
The country home of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, showcasing exquisite gardens and architecture.
📍 11 km | ⏱️ 25 minutes
A beautifully landscaped garden and former home of artist Bevis Bawa.
📍 15 km | ⏱️ 30 minutes
Explore mangrove forests and observe diverse wildlife on a boat safari.
📍 8 km | ⏱️ 12 minutes
A conservation project dedicated to protecting sea turtles.
📍 4 km | ⏱️ 10 minutes
A serene spot ideal for bird watching and boat rides.
📍 6 km | ⏱️ 15 minutes
A significant Buddhist temple known for its towering Buddha statue.
- Approximately 109 km (about 1 hour 45-minute drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 86 km (about 1 hour 25-minute drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 65 km (2-hour drive via Colombo – Galle Road).
- Approximately 37 km (50-minute drive via Colombo – Galle Road).
- Approximately 62 km (1-hour drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 72 km (about 1 hour drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 71 km (1 hour drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 60 km (1 hour 20-minute drive via Colombo – Galle Road).
- Approximately 98 km (1 hour 45-minute drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 90 km (2 hour 15-minute drive via Colombo – Galle Road).
- Approximately 180 km (3 hour 30-minute drive via the Southern Expressway).
- Approximately 176 km (4 hour 30-minute drive via Colombo – Kandy Road).
Offers a diverse menu with a blend of local and international cuisines.
Known for its seafood dishes and riverside ambiance.
Specializes in fresh seafood with a beachfront setting.
Known for its beachfront dining and diverse menu.
Popular for its seafood dishes and ambiance.
Offers a mix of local and international dishes.
⭐ 9.0+ | Offers comfortable accommodations with a garden setting.
⭐ 9.0+ | Provides air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
⭐ 9.0+ | Features serene surroundings and personalized service.
⭐ 9.0+ | A serene homestay offering comfortable rooms and warm hospitality.
⭐ 9.0+ | Known for its peaceful environment and friendly hosts.
⭐ 9.0+ | Offers cozy accommodations close to the beach.
⭐ 9.0+ | A centrally located hotel with exceptional service.
⭐ 9.0+ | Offers spacious rooms and a tranquil environment.
⭐ 9.0+ | Provides beachfront accommodations with modern facilities.
⭐ 9.5+ | A luxury hotel offering elegant rooms amidst nature.
⭐ 9.5+ | Features colonial-style architecture and top-notch amenities.
⭐ 9.5+ | Provides boutique accommodations with personalized service.
⭐ 9.5+ | Offers luxurious accommodations amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.
⭐ 9.5+ | An adults-only resort providing upscale amenities and ocean views.
⭐ 9.5+ | A boutique hotel combining colonial charm with modern comforts.
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