Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach: This popular beach destination offers water sports, a turtle hatchery, and a variety of other attractions. 

Introduction:

Bentota Beach is a famous destination in Sri Lanka, located on the southwest coast of the country. This beautiful beach town offers a range of activities for visitors, including water sports, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of Bentota Beach, from its history to its main attractions, as well as provide practical tips for planning your visit.

History:

Bentota Beach has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. During the Dutch and Portuguese colonial periods, the town was used as a trading hub for spices and cinnamon. In the 19th century, the British developed the town as a plantation economy, mainly for rubber and coconut. Today, Bentota is a thriving tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world.

Geography:

Bentota is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 62 km south of Colombo. The town is situated between the Bentota River and the Indian Ocean, which provides a unique coastal environment. The area is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and calm waters.

Main Attractions:

Bentota Beach offers a range of attractions for visitors, from water sports to cultural experiences. Some of the main attractions of the town include:

• Water Sports:

Bentota is famous for its water sports, including jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from local operators.

Water sports are a major attraction in Bentota and there are many options for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the most popular water sports activities:

1. Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is a thrilling water sport that involves riding a high-speed personal watercraft. Visitors can rent jet skis from local operators and take them out on the water for a fun and exciting experience.

2. Windsurfing: Bentota's windy conditions make it a great destination for windsurfing. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from local operators to learn the basics of this exciting water sport.

3. Banana Boat Rides: Banana boat rides are a fun and family-friendly activity that involve riding on an inflatable banana-shaped boat towed by a speedboat. Visitors can enjoy the ride and take in the beautiful scenery of the Bentota beach.

4. Parasailing: Parasailing is a thrilling activity that involves being lifted into the air by a parachute while being towed by a speedboat. Visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the Bentota beach and the surrounding area.

5. Water Skiing: Water skiing is a classic water sport that involves being towed behind a speedboat while skiing on the water's surface. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from local operators to experience this fun and exciting activity.

No matter which water sport visitors choose, they are sure to have a memorable experience in Bentota. Local operators are available to provide equipment rentals and lessons, making it easy for visitors to try something new and exciting.

• Turtle Hatchery:

The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a conservation project that helps protect endangered sea turtle species. Visitors can learn about the hatchery's efforts and even release baby turtles into the sea.

Bentota is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its conservation efforts to protect sea turtles. In this section, we will focus on the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and those interested in conservation efforts.

The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a non-profit organization that was established in 1981 to help protect sea turtle species, particularly the endangered ones. The hatchery collects eggs from the beaches around Bentota and other coastal areas in Sri Lanka, where they would be destroyed or consumed by animals, and incubates them in a safe and secure environment.

Once the eggs hatch, the hatchery cares for the baby turtles until they are ready to be released into the sea. This process ensures a much higher chance of survival for the hatchlings, as they are protected from predators and other threats that they would face on the beach.

Visitors to the hatchery can learn about the different sea turtle species found in Sri Lanka and the conservation efforts being taken to protect them. There are also opportunities to observe the hatchlings and even participate in releasing them into the sea. It's a truly unique and heartwarming experience that visitors will remember for a long time.

In addition to its conservation efforts, the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery also serves as a research and education center. They conduct research on sea turtles and their habitats, and provide educational programs for school children and tourists.

Overall, the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a must-visit attraction for those interested in nature conservation and those who want to witness the wonder of baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. It's a great opportunity to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and to contribute to their survival.

• Brief Garden:

This beautiful garden was designed by Bevis Bawa, the brother of famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The garden features unique sculptures and plants that are native to Sri Lanka.

Are you a fan of gardens and art? Then you must visit Brief Garden, the beautiful garden designed by Bevis Bawa, the brother of famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Located in the idyllic countryside of Bentota, Brief Garden is a masterpiece that showcases the beauty of Sri Lankan art and nature. In this article, we will take a closer look at Brief Garden and what makes it a must-see attraction.

History and Design

Brief Garden was once a rubber plantation owned by the de Silva family, but it was transformed into a work of art by Bevis Bawa in the 1920s. Bawa was a talented artist and landscaper, and he created a garden that was both beautiful and functional. The garden features many unique sculptures and designs, including a giant Buddha statue, a Japanese-style bridge, and a Hindu temple. Bawa also incorporated many native Sri Lankan plants into the garden, including palms, frangipani trees, and orchids.

Highlights of the Garden

One of the most impressive features of Brief Garden is the giant Buddha statue that stands at the entrance. The statue is 50 feet tall and is surrounded by a beautiful lotus pond. Visitors can also explore the Japanese-style bridge, which leads to a small island in the middle of the pond. The island features a small pavilion where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Another highlight of the garden is the Hindu temple, which is located in a secluded area near a waterfall. The temple is beautifully designed and features intricate carvings and decorations. Visitors can take a moment to meditate or offer a prayer at the temple.

Visiting Brief Garden

Brief Garden is open to the public and can be visited throughout the year. The garden is located in the town of Bentota, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi from Colombo. Visitors can explore the garden on their own or take a guided tour. The garden is quite large, so visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring its many features. There is also a small gift shop on site where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts.

In conclusion, Brief Garden is a unique and beautiful attraction that showcases the beauty of Sri Lankan art and nature. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to add Brief Garden to your itinerary. Whether you are a fan of gardens, art, or just looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape, Brief Garden is sure to impress.

• Galapata Vihara:

This ancient Buddhist temple dates back to the 12th century and is known for its intricate carvings and murals.

Introduction:

Galapata Vihara is a magnificent ancient Buddhist temple located in the Galle District of Sri Lanka. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of the temple, as well as its beautiful architecture and artwork.

History:

Galapata Vihara was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great, a famous king of the Polonnaruwa kingdom. The temple is believed to have been built on the site of a previous temple, which may have existed as early as the 1st century BC.

Architecture:

The temple's architecture is a beautiful mix of Sinhalese and South Indian styles, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls and columns. The temple's main stupa, or dagoba, is over 46 feet tall and is surrounded by smaller stupas and statues of Buddha.

Artwork:

One of the most impressive features of Galapata Vihara is its stunning murals, which depict scenes from the Jataka tales, stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. The murals cover the walls of the temple's image house and are considered to be some of the best-preserved examples of ancient Buddhist artwork in Sri Lanka.

Significance:

Galapata Vihara is a significant site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the Galle District. It is also a popular destination for tourists who are interested in Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage.

Visiting Galapata Vihara:

Visitors to Galapata Vihara should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple. It is also recommended to hire a guide to fully appreciate the temple's history and artwork. The temple is open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk.

Conclusion:

Galapata Vihara is a beautiful and significant ancient Buddhist temple that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage. From its stunning architecture to its impressive murals, the temple is a testament to the skill and artistry of Sri Lanka's ancient builders and artists.

• Bentota River: 

Visitors can take a boat ride along the Bentota River to explore the surrounding mangrove forests and wildlife.

Bentota, located on Sri Lanka's southwestern coast, is known for its beautiful beaches and water sports activities. However, there's another attraction that shouldn't be missed – the Bentota River. A boat ride along this river offers a unique opportunity to explore the surrounding mangrove forests and wildlife. In this article, we will highlight the natural wonders you can discover on a trip along the Bentota River.

Mangrove Forests:

As you embark on your boat ride, you'll immediately notice the lush mangrove forests lining the river. These trees play an important role in maintaining the river's ecosystem, as they serve as breeding and nesting grounds for many species of fish, crabs, and birds. As you weave your way through the narrow channels between the mangroves, you'll get up close and personal with the diverse flora and fauna that call this place home.

Bird Watching:

The Bentota River is a haven for bird watchers, with over 60 species of birds found in the area. Among the most commonly sighted are kingfishers, herons, and egrets. You might also spot some rarer species, such as the black-capped kingfisher or the Indian darter. Keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful creatures as you glide through the mangrove forests.

Mudskippers and Crabs:

Another unique feature of the Bentota River is the presence of mudskippers and crabs. These creatures are adapted to live in the intertidal zones, where the river meets the sea. Mudskippers are amphibious fish that can breathe through their skin and live out of water for extended periods. Meanwhile, the crabs use their powerful claws to scavenge for food and defend their territory.

Fish Farms:

As you near the end of your boat ride, you'll see a few fish farms located along the riverbank. These farms are responsible for supplying fresh seafood to the local markets and restaurants. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the farmers at work, feeding and tending to their fish.

Conclusion:

The Bentota River offers a unique opportunity to explore Sri Lanka's natural wonders. From the lush mangrove forests to the diverse wildlife, a boat ride along this river is an experience not to be missed. Whether you're a nature lover or simply looking for a break from the beach, make sure to add a trip to the Bentota River to your itinerary.

Planning Your Visit:

If you are planning a trip to Bentota Beach, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Bentota is between December and April when the weather is dry and sunny.

2. Getting There: Bentota is approximately a 2-hour drive from Colombo. Visitors can also take a train or bus from Colombo to Bentota.

3. Accommodation: There are a range of accommodation options in Bentota, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Be sure to book in advance during peak travel season.

4. Food: Bentota offers a variety of dining options, from local seafood restaurants to international cuisine.

Conclusion:

Bentota Beach is a wonderful destination for those looking for sun, sand, and adventure. With its rich history, unique geography, and range of attractions, Bentota offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for water sports, cultural experiences, or simply relaxation, Bentota Beach is the perfect destination for your next holiday.