Bentota & Southwest Coast

Sri Lanka’s South West coast covers the coastal belt just south of Colombo all the way down to Hikkaduwa. The west coast is more frequented by holidaymakers due to its closer proximity to the island’s capital and the main airport, and offers tropical beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons. The sandy beaches are the main attraction in the string of small towns such as Kalutara, Beruwela, Bentota, Ambalangoda, Ahungalla and Hikkaduwa, but they also share a vibrant cultural heritage including folklore, music and dance as well as architectural influences from the Dutch period.

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Many temples, kovils, churches and mosques are situated along the coast. Cottage industries such as basket-weaving, mask-carving and antique restoration provide for interesting shopping.

Don't Miss

Great sunbathing at excellent-value tropical hotels
Water skiing in Bentota
Dancing the night away in Hikkaduwa
Surfing and deep sea fishing
Stroll through Bevis Bawa’s Brief gardens
Kosgoda’s marine turtles
Traditional mask dancing in Ambalangoda
Elephant Foot Drummers of Hikkaduwa
Boat ride down mangrove-filled river of Madu
Ancient temples & churches