Things to Do

Udakotuwa Bodhi Sameepa Rajamaha Viharaya is the first temple you will encounter along the circular road. Approximately 300 metres further along, you will find a signboard directing visitors to the temple. The site is situated on a small hill near the river, offering a peaceful and scenic setting.

As you climb the hill, you will see an ancient Bodhi tree on your right. This is believed to be one of the Bodhi trees planted during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa as part of a mission to establish a Bodhi tree at every mile (gaowwa) along the route from Anuradhapura to Kataragama. An unusual feature of this sacred tree is that one of its branches produces only white leaves. Remarkably, the tree survived the destruction and vandalism carried out during the Portuguese period. After remaining hidden for centuries, the temple was rediscovered in 1834 and subsequently restored and reconstructed.

Relax along the golden shores of Bentota Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning coastal destinations known for its peaceful atmosphere and tropical beauty. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and the calming sounds of the Indian Ocean, the beach offers the perfect setting for sunbathing, leisurely walks, and breathtaking sunset views. The warm sea breeze and soft sandy coastline create a truly relaxing experience for visitors seeking rest and tranquility. Whether you want to unwind under the sun, enjoy the ocean scenery, or simply experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Bentota Beach provides an unforgettable escape filled with comfort, serenity, and natural charm for every traveler.

Experience the ancient healing traditions of Sri Lankan Ayurveda through natural therapies, herbal treatments, and personalized wellness practices designed to restore harmony between the body, mind, and soul. Ayurveda focuses on holistic healing by improving physical wellbeing, reducing stress, and promoting inner balance naturally. Visitors can enjoy soothing massages, herbal steam therapies, relaxation treatments, and wellness consultations guided by experienced Ayurvedic specialists. Surrounded by peaceful natural surroundings, the Ayurvedic experience offers complete relaxation and rejuvenation for both body and mind. Rooted in centuries of traditional knowledge, Ayurveda provides a meaningful journey toward healthier living, emotional balance, and long-term wellbeing while allowing guests to reconnect with themselves in a calm and healing environment.

Experience the beauty of the Bentota River on a relaxing boat safari through peaceful waterways surrounded by lush mangroves and tropical scenery. As you cruise along the calm river, you can witness exotic birds, colorful wildlife, monitor lizards, and traditional riverside village life. The safari offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich natural ecosystem while enjoying the quiet and refreshing atmosphere of the river. Passing through hidden waterways and beautiful landscapes creates a truly unforgettable experience filled with relaxation and discovery. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, the Bentota Boat Safari combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and peaceful surroundings into one memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s nature.

Visit the sacred Kande Viharaya Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected Buddhist temples known for its peaceful atmosphere, spiritual significance, and impressive giant Buddha statue. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and traditional temple architecture, this religious site offers visitors a calm and meaningful cultural experience. The temple is a place of worship, meditation, and reflection where visitors can learn about Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions and spiritual heritage. Walking through the temple grounds provides a sense of serenity and connection with local culture and history. Whether admiring the remarkable statues or experiencing the peaceful surroundings, Kande Viharaya Temple offers an unforgettable journey into the island’s spiritual and cultural identity.

Located in Bentota, Lunuganga is the former country estate and personal masterpiece of Sri Lanka’s renowned architect, Geoffrey Bawa. Developed over more than four decades, this extraordinary garden seamlessly blends architecture, landscape, art, and nature, creating one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and beautiful attractions.

Overlooking the tranquil Dedduwa Lake, Lunuganga offers visitors a unique journey through landscaped gardens, scenic viewpoints, elegant courtyards, and tropical greenery. Today, the estate is preserved by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust and remains a must-visit destination for those interested in architecture, history, and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing in the warm waters off the coast of Bentota. Guided by experienced local fishermen, this exciting adventure offers the opportunity to catch a variety of fish species while enjoying breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Whether you are an experienced angler or a first-time visitor, deep sea fishing in Bentota promises an unforgettable day on the water.

Visit the famous Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and learn about the inspiring conservation efforts dedicated to protecting Sri Lanka’s endangered sea turtles. This meaningful experience allows visitors to discover different species of turtles while understanding the important work carried out to preserve marine life and support turtle breeding programs. See baby turtles up close, observe rescued turtles receiving care, and learn how hatchlings are safely released into the ocean. The hatchery offers a fascinating and educational insight into Sri Lanka’s coastal wildlife and environmental protection initiatives. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, the Turtle Hatchery experience combines learning, compassion, and unforgettable encounters with some of the ocean’s most remarkable creatures.

Enjoy thrilling water sports adventures on the beautiful Bentota River, one of Sri Lanka’s most exciting destinations for outdoor activities and fun-filled experiences. Surrounded by tropical scenery and refreshing waters, the river offers a variety of exciting activities including jet skiing, banana boat rides, tube rides, wakeboarding, and more. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-filled excitement or simply looking to enjoy the water with friends and family, Bentota River provides the perfect setting for unforgettable memories. The combination of scenic beauty, calm river surroundings, and exciting activities creates an enjoyable experience suitable for all adventure lovers. It is the ideal place to experience both relaxation and excitement in one unique destination.

Explore the lively Beruwala Fish Market and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of Sri Lanka’s busiest coastal fishing communities. Early mornings at the market are filled with energy as local fishermen return with their fresh catch of the day, creating a colorful and authentic cultural experience. Visitors can observe traditional fishing activities, interact with local vendors, and witness the daily routines that support the coastal way of life. The market showcases a wide variety of seafood while offering insight into Sri Lanka’s rich maritime traditions and fishing industry. Filled with movement, local culture, and unique sights, the Beruwala Fish Market provides an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s coastal heritage and community lifestyle.

Discover the world-famous cinnamon heritage of Sri Lanka and learn about the traditional cultivation and harvesting process of one of the island’s most valuable spices. Visitors can explore cinnamon plantations, observe skilled workers carefully peeling cinnamon bark, and understand how the spice is prepared using generations-old techniques. This unique cultural experience offers insight into Sri Lanka’s agricultural traditions and the important role cinnamon has played in the country’s history and economy. Surrounded by lush greenery and the natural fragrance of fresh cinnamon, the experience is both educational and enjoyable. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local traditions while learning about one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated natural treasures and exports.

Discover the rich artistic heritage of Sri Lanka through traditional wood carvings and handcrafted masks created by talented local artisans. These beautifully detailed artworks reflect centuries of Sri Lankan culture, folklore, and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Visitors can observe the careful carving process and admire the vibrant colors and intricate designs used to create decorative masks and wooden sculptures. Each piece carries cultural significance and tells stories inspired by ancient traditions and local beliefs. Exploring these traditional art forms offers a fascinating insight into Sri Lanka’s creative heritage while supporting skilled craftsmen who continue to preserve these timeless techniques. It is a memorable cultural experience filled with creativity, history, and authentic local artistry.