6. Visit Kande Viharaya
A temple dating from the 1700s, the Kande Viharaya is a great place to gobble up some history while observing local life. A pioneer centre for Buddhist education in Sri Lanka, Kande Viharaya has a number of ancient sculptures, statues and colorful frescoes dating back to the Kandyan era (15th-19th century).
7. Explore the Galle Dutch Fort
About 50 kms south of Bentota is the Galle Dutch Fort, a centuries-old fortification that has been beautifully preserved. Sprawling across 87 acres, it houses ancient churches, museums and is a cultural hot spot where many art and literary festivals take place.
8. Lunuganga
Explore the home of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, exquisitely designed with an array of rare flora. Bawa is credited as the pioneer of the architectural theory today known as “tropical modernism”, and Lunuganga is a magnificent example of his work.
Lunuganga Garden, Dedduwa, Haburugala, Bentota, +94 034 4 287056
9. Go Diving
Bentota is a popular diving spot. Head over to Canoe Rock, South Reef and Hundirangala to witness vibrant corals and large schools of fish, including Lion Fish and Porcupine Fish. If you need guidance or are a newbie to the sport, Sunshine Diving is a good place to start.
10. Visit Cinnamon Island
A cinnamon plantation dating back to the early 1900s, Cinnamon Island is located on a tiny, enchanting island. Visitors can witness the processing of cinnamon and learn about all of cinnamon’s uses. It’s a great excursion for an hour.
Comments