Things To Do
in Bentota
Bentota, Sri Lanka is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a favored destination for travelers seeking both leisure and exploration. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and the Bentota River, providing numerous water sports and nature activities.
With its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Bentota is a delightful gateway to the wonders of Sri Lanka.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Bentota Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands and enjoy the gentle waves.
After lunch, explore the nearby Brief Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden filled with sculptures and lush flora.
End the day with a sunset boat ride on the Bentota River, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Begin with a thrilling water sports session, choosing from jet skiing, banana boat rides, or snorkeling.
Visit the local fish market to experience the bustling atmosphere and sample fresh seafood.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant and savor local dishes while enjoying the sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $5 - $15 |
| 🏨Mid-range Hotel Night | $40 - $100 |
| 🚌Local Bus Ticket | $0.50 |
| 🍹Cocktail at a Bar | $3 - $8 |
| 🥥Coconut Water | $1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches and natural beauty
- Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine
- Variety of activities and relaxation options
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas can be overcrowded during peak season
- Occasional heavy rains during monsoon season
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Thank you" - Sthuthi
- "Please" - Karunakara
- "Goodbye" - Pawathinna
Places to Visit in Bentota
Visit one of these nice places.
With its golden sands and turquoise waters, Bentota Beach is perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots.
This garden is filled with beautiful sculptures and exotic plants, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography.
The river offers scenic views and opportunities to capture local wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature photography.
Food in Bentota
Bentota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring rice served with an array of flavorful curries, vegetables, and sambols.
Must-Try!
A unique bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, often served with an egg in the center or with sweet fillings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood caught by local fishermen, offering a chance to experience local culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove shoes, showing respect for local customs.
A traditional greeting involves placing palms together and bowing slightly, which shows respect.
It is polite to eat with your right hand in traditional settings, and sharing food is common.
Safety
Tipping in Bentota
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10% of the bill. For other services, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are commonly used in hotels and restaurants. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days and pleasant weather, ideal for beach activities and outdoor excursions.
Heavy rains are common, and while it may limit outdoor activities, it’s a great time to explore indoor attractions.
These months offer a mix of rain and sunshine, providing lower prices and fewer crowds.
Experience local festivals and celebrations, which can be a vibrant time to visit, but expect larger crowds.
Bentota at Night
Hiking in Bentota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this rainforest offers numerous trails for hiking, allowing you to explore its unique biodiversity.
Located a bit farther from Bentota, this area features stunning landscapes and hiking trails with various difficulty levels, suitable for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Bentota by plane.
Located approximately 100 km from Bentota, this is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka, offering connections to major cities worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, the Sinhalese are known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.
The Tamil community, primarily from the northern regions, contributes to the diverse cultural landscape of Sri Lanka, especially in the culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a favorite pastime in Sri Lanka, and you can often find locals playing in parks or on the beach.
With its coastal location, water sports such as surfing, jet skiing, and snorkeling are immensely popular among both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bentota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about hidden ingredients like fish sauce.
While options may be limited, rice-based dishes are a good choice for gluten-free diets.