Bentota, a coastal town in Sri Lanka located in the Galle District in the Southern Province, is called Bentota. It is located approximately 65 kms (40 miles) south of Colombo, and 56 kilometers (35 mi) north from Galle. Bentota can be found at 3m (9.8ft) above sea level on the southern bank. Named after a mythical figure, the name of the town comes from the legend that a demon called 'Bem' used to rule the river bank or total.
Bentota, a historical location, is described in ancient messenger poetry (sandesa-kavya). One of the five temples is the GalapathaViharaya. The Portuguese built a small fort near the Bentota River's mouth (Bentara Ganga) in the 17th century. This fort was known as ParangiKotuwa in Sinhala, which means the fort of Portugal. This river was the southernmost point of Portuguese-held territory in Sri Lanka. The Dutch allowed the fort's collapse and converted one of its large buildings into a colonial residence for Dutch officers travelling between Colombo, Galle. The British converted the rest house into an island sanatorium. Sir James Emerson Tennent (1804-1869), Ceylon's colonial secretary (1845-1850), wrote that the Bentota rest house, which is located in a small park and shaded by tall Tamarind trees at the point where the river joins the ocean, was one of the most pleasant places in Ceylon. In the early 19th century, the British built a bridge (BentotaPalama), to cross the river. This was to transport coconut produce from the Deep South.
Bentota's climate is oppressive, windy and hot. The temperature is usually between 75degF and 90degF throughout the year. It rarely drops below 72degF, or rises above 93degF. According to the beach/pool score the best time to visit Bentota is mid-December to early March for hot-weather activities. The average amount of cloud cover in Bentota is around 80%. This can vary significantly over the course of the calendar year. Bentota's clearest part of the year begins around December 12, and lasts for approximately 4.0 months. It ends around April 10. February is the clearest month in Bentota. During this time, the sky is either mostly clear or partially cloudy 40% of all the time. The cloudier portion of the year starts around April 10th and lasts for approximately 8.0 months. It ends around December 12. July is the cloudiest month in Bentota. On average, 87% of the time the sky is cloudy or overcast.
Bentota can be found 64 km south of Colombo, in the Southern Western coast belt of Sri Lanka. Bentota is known for its amazing beaches in the Southern-Western and Southern-coastal areas of Sri Lanka. There are two beaches that can be found along the coast of this area: the Benota and Beruwala. These beaches are known as the Beruwala and Benota beaches. Before reaching Aluthgama, the Beruwala beach can be found. The Bentota Beach could be seen from the Bentota Bridge. The Bentota Beach is surrounded by the most popular resorts in Sri Lanka. The Bentota beach is home to a variety of luxurious, beautiful hotels that offer great facilities and spontaneity to foreign tourists. Bentota, unlike other beaches, is the ideal place for families to enjoy long-term vacations in the beautiful tropical blue waters.
Bentota beach is the perfect spot for water sports lovers who love to dive and glide across the waves. Oct-April is the best month to enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing and wind-surfing. The waves are also more calm and safer to swim in. If the currents are too strong, red flags may be raised. There is no need to be concerned if you don't have the equipment necessary to enjoy a joyous swim in the deep blue water. Nearby shops can sell accessories and equipment for snorkeling or scuba diving. You can also get assistance from certified professionals to equip gear and dive. Bentota is the place divers long for. Canoe Rock is the main destination for divers. Tourists and locals alike go in two ways. The first is by boat, where you travel along the blue waters and dive off the boat to explore and enjoy the radiant colors of corals. Option two is where locals and tourists swim to the depths from shore. Jet Skiing and speed are your favorites. You can also waterski and Jet ski at the lagoon. River Bentara, a famous river from Bentota that connects to the Indian Ocean, forms the lagoon.
Bentota beach has many other attractions, such as luxury hotels and sports facilities. Bentota is the perfect place to go on a romantic honeymoon. Bentota beach is Sri Lanka's most popular destination for romantic weddings. It is known as the honeymoon spot because of its popularity. Many foreign tourists have had their weddings on Bentota Beach over the years. This is the ideal place to marry at an idyllic and beautiful beach.
Bentota, on the other hand, is great for those who are bored and want to shop. There are many shops and stores around Bentota Beach that sell a variety of products. Batiks, traditional masks and ornaments are just a few examples. Tourists love Bentota for its turtle watching. You can see turtles swimming through the calm waves by just 8km down Induruwa Beach. Bentota beach is unique because Sri Lanka has 5/7 species marine turtles. These include the Green Turtle, the Leatherback, the Hawksbill and the Loggerhead.
KandeVihara, a Buddhist temple located in Kalutara district, Sri Lanka is the main. Because it is located on top of Aluthgama's hill, the temple was named 'Kandevihara (Mountain Temple). The Government officially recognized the temple as an archaeological site in Sri Lanka.
The founder of the temple was ven.KarapagalaDevittathero founded the temple in 1734 under the direction of ven.UdugamaChandrasara, who was the then chief incumbent at Galapatha Raja MahaVihara, and a pupil under ven.Weliwita Shri Saranankarathero. The temple has been renovated several times and further developed under state patronage. This made it a significant Buddhist shrine in the country. Ven. Hikkaduwe Sri SumangalaThero. KandeVihara also runs the pirivena, which acts as a centre for Buddhist education in the country.
The temple's image house, Stupa, and sacred Bodhi tree are all considered very old monuments. Bodhi trees are believed to be over 300 years old. The large Stupa in the temple, which was built in 1935, was constructed to enclose a smaller Stupa that Ven. UdugamaChandrasaraThero in 1783.
The foundation stone was laid for a huge Samadhi Buddha statue of the Bhoomisparsha Mudra in 2002. In 2007, the statue was made open to the public. This made the temple more popular with local devotees. It is 48.8m (160ft) tall and is considered one of the most impressive sitting Buddha statues in existence.
The temple includes the Stupa (Bodhi Tree), Relic Chamber and Image House. There are also other major Devalas such as Kataragama or PattiniDevalaya. Outside the Vihara premises is the SeemaMalaka, Bodhi tree, preaching hall and Bodhi Tree. The Stupa was built in bell-shaped and placed within an octagonal Shelter.
It is believed that the temple's relic chamber is the oldest structure in the temple grounds. The chamber's entrance is adorned with a stone moonstone, and a door frame. The ceiling and inner walls of the chamber have been decorated with Kandyan Era Frescoes from the second half of the Kandyan period. The temple's image house consists of an inner and outer chambers. The entrance to the image house is a Thorana, a magnetic-looking Thorana, with three arched entrances. Three Buddha images can be seen in the inner chamber, including those in standing, sitting and sleeping positions. Both the walls and ceilings of the chambers are decorated with Jataka stories, moments from the Buddha's life journey and other murals.
Madu Ganga, located at Balapitiya in Sri Lanka, is the second largest wetland. The river is rich in biodiversity and covers 150 acres. It also contains 14 mangroves, one of the 24 mangrove species in Sri Lanka. Madu Ganga is one of the few remaining mangrove forests. This is where you can see traditional fishing techniques and prawn farming. It also houses 300 species of plants, and approximately 250 wildlife species. This makes it an ideal place for ecologists and botanists.
Boat rides and bird-watching trips can be booked by visitors. The Madu River Safari, which takes place at Balapitiya'sMadu River mouth, is accompanied by local fishermen and trained professionals. It lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, and visitors can see large areas of the wetland. The boat travels through dense mangrove forests that provide protection for many aquatic species, as well as animal and plant species. During the boat ride, one can see wild boars, water snakes and tree snakes as well as crocodiles.
There are 25 islands in the river, of which 15 are safe and of large landmass. The motorboat stops at Cinnamon Island, which is home to cinnamon trees that cover acres of land. These plantations date back as far as the 1900s. This cinnamon plantation is an old tradition, and has been managed by one family for generations. You can find out more about how cinnamon is harvested. KothDuwa is another stop on the Madu River Safari. This island is one of the largest inhabited in Madu Ganga. This island is home to an ancient Buddhist Temple, which includes many buildings. It covers the entire island. Bo-tree and Image house are the most notable places within the temple.
The safari also offers the opportunity to visit the fish spa located in the middle of the river. As you sail through the mangroves, you will come across several rectangular fish tanks stocked with Gourami fish. These fish tanks are used for fish therapy. You can enjoy uninterrupted views of the mangrove forests and the natural surroundings surrounding the fish spa. Visitors will need to pay for the fish spa ticket at the location, as it is not usually included in the package.
You can choose from a variety of boat rides on the river, including family boat rides or group boat rides. Group boat rides typically have four to five families in one boat. Family boat rides only allow one family. The boat rides are safe for children and elderly. Visitors can pay per person if there are 8 or more people in their group. If less than 8, they can rent a boat to take along. Many boat companies offer large group discounts for Madu Ganga River Safari. You can always ask your resort for assistance, but it is also possible to search Balapitiya for a boat company. They can be found along the banks of the Balapitiyariver at the town's edge.
Aren't the little things in life what make you happy? It is for the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. This welfare center cares deeply about these tiny creatures even before they are born.
Six out of seven species of sea turtles today are threatened. Most of this is due to human exploitation of natural resource. This hatchery is now responsible for protecting them. The hatchery keeps an eye on nesting turtles and then brings their eggs to the hatchery. Finally, they release the baby turtles into open sea. They will tend to any complications and release the baby turtles only when they are ready to enter the ocean.
Kosgoda is one of very few hatcheries in the country where all five species make their nests. These are the Olive Ridleys (Leatherbacks), Green Turtles, Loggerheads, Loggerheads, Hawksbills, Loggerheads, Loggerheads, Loggerheads, and Loggerheads. Ask our staff if you can release some of these delicate creatures into the ocean during your visit. They will start flapping their arms back when the waves hit them. They then fly into their homes, and the ocean fills your heart with joy.
Moragalla, a beach located just a few km south of Beruwala's tourist area, is called. This large stretch of sandy paradise is adjacent to the Bentota River Estuary, also known as the Bentara River.
Although the beach at Moragalla doesn't have much to offer, it is a long stretch of white sand and clear water. Because of the coral reef that lies just off the coast, the sea around Moragalla can be quite shallow. It's ideal for divers, snorkeling, windsurfing and other watersports.
You can also explore the Bentara River at the southern end of the beach. The river is lined with more than 20 types of mangrove trees, and many islands floating in the middle of the stream, making it an excellent place for boat trips. The truth is that it's not an island. It's the hooked end Bentota beach which forms a panhandle. You can reach this land formation by either rowing across the coast using a boat or by walking the long distance. A flight of stairs is visible on this stretch of land. They are made into a rocky mound. These stairs lead to a small temple with a yoga ashram. A short footpath leads you to the edge, with great views. This is a great spot to watch the stunning sunsets in the tropics.
Moragalla has become more commercialized. It is the responsibility for all visitors to maintain the beauty and cleanliness of the beach.
You will find the Herbal Garden Bentota directly off the Galle Road. You will find Bentota Beach South if you drive from Colombo towards Galle. These Herbal Gardens or herbal gardens are beautiful to behold. Every village has an Herbal Garden.
Although the entrance to the garden is free, the person who leads the visitor through it, explaining the effects of herbs and how they grow, usually expects a tip at the end. It is a wild area and not well-maintained. It is not a problem to visit an herb garden. In fact, it can be very fascinating.
Bentota, Sri Lanka's holiday destination, is well-known for its beaches and marine life. It also boasts mountain top excursions, as well as its water sports. Bentota's water sports are well-known and offer something for everyone.
A cruise on the Bentota River is one of the many water sports available. Other water activities include water skiing, windsurfing and banana ride, wakeboarding as well as tube rides, tube rides, seadiving, snorkelling, and surfing. There are many courses that can be taken by watersport centres to help you get started in water sports. Tourists love Bentota, particularly because of the many water sports offered by nearly all the resorts. It is known for its many water sports activities and the top-notch facilities they provide tourists and locals as they enjoy the games.
Learn how to waterski in Bentota and experience the water beneath your feet. This beach is ideal for safe and secure water skiing. The incredible water stretches are a magnet for adrenaline addicts because there are no large boulders or patchy waters. Tourists are encouraged to demonstrate their skills in a safe and calm environment if they are water sports enthusiasts. Don't worry if this is your first time, support teams will be there to help you.
Bentota is the perfect place for beginners and experts alike. Here you can swim in the Indian Ocean with tropical fish and coral reefs. You will also be able to maneuver through the seaweed which is quite prevalent underwater. This is a great experience everyone should have.
The banana tube, as its name suggests, is shaped like bananas and attached to a speedboat by a rope. This trip promises adrenaline-packed excitement with huge waves that crash over your head. It is suitable for all ages, but tourists can also choose from single ring rides or sofa rides in Bentota.
Windsurfing in clear water is something that you can't do anywhere else. But Bentota is the right place if you are looking for it. The perfect atmosphere is available all year. Tourists have the option to either hire equipment or bring their own. Bentota offers classes and solo sessions to tourists who want to learn or practice windsurfing.
Jet skiing is one of the most popular and exciting water sports in Bentota. Nearly everyone visiting Bentota would love to rent a jetski and ride it along the beach. This sport is great for thrill-seekers and those who are just starting can take lessons to learn the ropes. It is a great activity that can be enjoyed with family, friends and loved ones in Bentota.
Bentota resorts offer water polo to their customers and visitors. Tourists can play against each other in the mini-field that is provided by the resorts on the beach. Tourists can choose how many people they want to be in their teams and tournaments are usually held so that everyone can play together.
Speed Boat Rides in Bentota are a great way to get that adrenaline rush while on holiday in Sri Lanka. This is one of the most thrilling ways to see the beaches in Sri Lanka.
Spend some time on the river to spot Snappers, Mangrove Jacks and Mullet fish. A lagoon fishing trip can take around three hours.
Kayaking is available throughout Bentota for half-day and full-day trips. Divers are encouraged to try this recreational water activity under the supervision of professionals.
It is a thrilling experience to ride a wakeboard behind an inflatable motorboat at 30-40 km/h. This allows you to explore the Bentota lagoon. It takes approximately 2 hours. You can purchase a wakeboarding package that includes safety equipment and an introductory training session.
Stand-up paddleboarding is a thrilling adventure sport that's for brave souls. You can glide along the ocean current between the Kappalady lagoon and the Kite House, and you will be able to see the magic of the waves that can take your paddle board to distances of up to 2km.
You will receive life jackets, safety following your boat, a cool box, and a walkie-talkie while you are on your canoeing trip with your Lead Safety Kayaker. You might be able to pick up and drop off your hotel from some canoeing packages.
Enjoy a boat ride to Barberyn Island, where you can take in the serene atmosphere created by the calm waters and the swaying palms. The views from the top of this lighthouse will blow your mind. You can also relax and have a picnic. This little adventure is simple in its beauty.
Dedduwa Lake, located east of Bentota, is well-known for its beautiful water bodies and marshy lands. This peaceful and tranquil destination has many boat houses and villas that allow you to relax.
Dedduwa Lake is surrounded with beautiful gardens, which are maintained well by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust. Also known as Lunuganga. These gardens were created from two plantations: one made of rubber, the other of cinnamon.
The gardens are beautiful and guests can take long walks, or go on guided tours that explain the history of the area. Tours are offered in both morning and afternoon. The 15-hectare Dedduwa Lake is an architectural wonderland. The water bodies offer guests exciting water activities like boating and swimming.
An ancient temple called the GalapathaRajamahaViharaya is located near the famous Benthara River. While you're exploring Bentota, its attractions and other sights, make sure to stop by this unique Buddhist temple. It's famous for its intricate stone archway featuring 'NariLatha motifs' from the Kandyan era, the Galpernaya stone water filter, and a rock outcrop containing inscriptions that date back to the 12th Century A.D. It was believed that the temple once contained the sacred tooth relic Sri AnubuddhaMahaKassyapaAraha.
Bentota Lake is located between the city's coast, and the main town. You can enjoy delicious meals at one of the many restaurants located on the shore. It is a great place to take a break from the tourist and sport activities of larger neighbours like the Bentara River or Bentota's Beach.
Bentota, a coastal resort on the Bentara River's southern bank, is a popular tourist destination for Sri Lankans. According to legend, the name of the town derives from "Bem", a demon who ruled over "tota", which is "river bank". Bentota is known for having one of the most beautiful beaches along Sri Lanka's southern coast.
The country home of Geoffrey Bawa, a prominent Sri Lankan architect, was located on the Lunuganga Estate. It was first used as a cinnamon estate in the Dutch era, and later became a rubber plantation for the British. The small house was sold to the local tax collector in 1948. Geoffrey Bawa, a newly qualified lawyer, purchased the bungalow from its owner in 1949. He wanted to make it a weekend home and turn it into a tropical version European Renaissance garden. The property, which covers 6.1 ha (15 acre), is situated in Bentota on the banks the Dedduwa Lake. Bawa gave the estate Lunuganga its Sinhala name, which means Salt River. Bawa, realizing his lack of architectural knowledge, returned to England to study architecture. He graduated as an architect and returned to Ceylon in 1958 to join the Edwards, Reid, and Beggs architectural practice.
Bawa worked on the Lunuganga house and gardens for 40 years until his death in May 2003. Bawa was cremated at the Cinnamon Hills and his ashes were buried there. He died in May 2003.The Lunuganga Trust was established in 2003 by close friends of Bawa. The estate's gardens are now open to visitors, and the buildings are used as a seasonal country hotel.
Brief Garden, a former home and landscape garden in Beruwala (Sri Lanka), was designed by Bevis Bawa, a landscape architect. Brief Garden Designs is the resident landscape designer.
Bertha Marianne nee Schrader, Bawa's mother (1876-1946) left the family rubber plantation to him in 1929. Benjamin, his father, purchased the estate with money from a successful legal practice. This unique name is what gave it its unique name. Bawa realized that he was not able to manage and maintain a successful plantation. He decided to concentrate on the development of the garden. Bawa sold off portions of his estate to make it manageable. He worked tirelessly on the garden until his passing in 1992. His employees inherited the estate, Doohlan De Silva currently managing it.
This museum is intended to bring Ambalangoda's rich mask tradition to life and strengthen its cultural heritage. The museum, the workshop, and the small library (containing all available archaeological literature on mask performances) could serve as a center for traditional arts and crafts as well as research.
People from the Karava community (fisher people) live in Sri Lanka's western and southern coast areas. They have developed many social customs. South-west coast, es-specially Ambalangoda, is well-known for its rituals and masks played on various accasions. Two of these rituals are most well-known: the KolamMaduwa, and the rituals to expel evil demonics that cause disease.
The famed masks have been greatly appreciated over the years by museum and private collectors, as well as other experts. However, the Kolam Dances, in particular, were abandoned for economic reasons. They are now performed very rarely. On the other hand, mask carving is now a cottage business.
Only the Wijesooriya clan is preserving the intricately carved traditional art of carving masks, out of all the notable carvers in the region. The Wijesooriya clan has undertaken the task of carving a complete set (12o) of masks to preserve the area's cultural heritage. Unfortunately, these masks cannot all be displayed here due to space limitations.
Two sets of masks have been exhibited to illustrate the revival in traditional carving, mask performances and are shown here. They are part of the KolamMaduwa as well as the SanniYakuma ritual, which was performed in Batapola (in 1986) and Ambalangoda (in 1985).
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