Sri Lanka is famous for many things. Tea, precious stones, elephants, but it is the island’s gorgeous beaches that keep the tourists pouring in year after year. Some of the country’s best beaches are found to the south, in places like Hikkaduwa and Bentota. Bentota is a popular tourist destination within the country. The coastal city falls under the historic Galle District, and is roughly eight kilometres from the city of Beruwela. The city’s name comes from an ancient myth and refers to the legend of Bem, a demon who ruled the area. For tourists who want to soak up the sun or try out a myriad of water sports, this city is the ideal destination.
A popular method of exploring the city is by taking a river safari along the Bentota Ganga (river in Sinhalese). Safari timings are flexible, and one can consult the tour conductors to arrange for a convenient time. However, the best times to go on a river safari are at dawn and during sunset. It is not very sunny at those times, and the lighting makes everything seem more vibrant and colourful. One can spend the morning serenely motoring down the river, exploring the scented mangroves while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife.
In addition to an array of aquatic birds, such as cormorants, kingfishers and herons, one might come across monitor lizards and even crocodiles. The latter is usually found sprawled along the river banks basking in the sun. A cruise usually lasts about three hours, although one can request for a longer one. The boats generally start off from the point where the Bentota River joins the ocean, and heads inland. It is an extremely enjoyable activity, and all visitors to the city should give it a try.
Tourists looking for luxury Bentota hotels might enjoy the offerings of the John Keells Hotels Group. The Bentota Beach Hotel is one of the best around, enjoying a prime location by the seaside. The hotel is located close to the Bentota River and is within easy reach of several tourist sites like the Dutch Fort in Galle and turtle hatcheries in Kosgoda.
