Bentota River Tourism

River4.5(456 reviews)

About Bentota River

Bentota River, flowing through the town of Bentota in the Galle District of Sri Lanka, is a serene waterway that is part of the island's rich natural tapestry. It is fed by the Dedduwa Lake and flows into the Indian Ocean. The river and its surrounding estuarine form an important ecological zone, supporting a diverse range of fauna such as aquatic birds, mangroves, and even crocodiles in its upper reaches. The environment around the river is known for its lush landscapes which make it a popular setting for river safaris, enabling tourists to explore the natural beauty and wildlife. The Bentota River is also a favorite among water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for jet-skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Along the riverbank, several high-end resorts and boutique hotels cater to visitors looking for relaxation or adventure. The peaceful atmosphere of the river, combined with the estuary and the golden beaches at its mouth, provides a picturesque setting ideal for photography, leisurely walks, and sunset views.

Top 5 Reviews on Bentota River

petermP2750TI
3.0
Wrote on 17 Mar 2024
Enjoyable but spoiled by litter
We took a private river tour to see the wildlife and mangrove along the Bentota river. Along the way we saw water monitors, bat's, chameleon, kingfishers and baby crocodiles. However, also on the way we saw a local emptying a garbage bin full of plastic bags and other waste into the river which floated towards the path of our boat. It seems Bentota and Aluthgama do not mind this practice or discourage it. For a tourist this is a real problem as the river banks are dirty, particularly when you're looking for wildlife and seeing so much plastic clinging to the plants and bushes. The local government really needs to clean this up with policies to prevent fly tipping and to encourage collection of floating rubbish. The river could be so beautiful if kept clean and tourists will be more likely to take these trips.