Bentota City Tour from Kalutara
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Bentota City Tour from Kalutara

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(1 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The first place you will visit is the strange and yet beautiful Lunuganga estate that was once the home of Sir Geoffrey Bawa. The next place for your perusal is Meetiyagoda Moonstones Mines. finally, you will visit Balapitiya for the ultimate experience, the Madu River safari.

Available options

per person rate

LK60160500: per person Rate<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Water bottle (per-person).
1-boat safari through Madu river.
Hotel pickup and drop off from Kalutara.
Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

1

Kalutara, located in southwestern Sri Lanka, captivates with its serene beaches and rich cultural heritage. Famous for the Kalutara Bodhiya, a revered Buddhist temple, and the towering Kalutara Bridge, this coastal town offers a blend of spirituality and natural beauty that enchants visitors from around the globe.

2

Lunuganga estate is the brainchild of the late architect Geoffrey Bawa (23 July 1919 – 27 May 2003). This country home was his very first muse and his experimental laboratory; while remaining his go-to place for rest and relaxation as his fame increased throughout the years. Designed with the whimsical beauty and eccentric style typical of Bawa; the estate is filled with with a number of art and artifacts from all over Asia and Europe.

3

A mangrove lagoon joined to the sea by a narrow canal and containing 15 islands of varying size, some of which are inhabited. It is formed of two shallow waterbodies, Maduganga and smaller Randombe Lake, connected by two narrow channels. On the islands and shores, relatively undisturbed mangrove vegetation contains rich biodiversity qualifying the wetland for 7 Criteria of International Importance. Many globally/nationally endangered, endemic and rare species - e.g. Shorea affinis, an endemic and endangered plant, Mugger (Crocodylus palustris) vulnerable (IUCN Red Book) and CITES-listed Purple-faced Leaf Monkey (Trachypithecus vetulus), endangered, Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata), Indian Python (Python molurus) find shelter here. The lagoon provides the breeding, spawning, and fattening ground for many fish species and supports 1.2 % of the Little Green Heron biogeographical population.

4

Meetiyagoda, located in southern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its unique moonstone mines. These shimmering semi-precious stones, known for their iridescent sheen, are mined here amidst lush greenery. Visitors can witness the traditional methods of extraction and purchase exquisite moonstone jewelry, making it a gem enthusiast's paradise.

What's not included

Entrance where not specified.
Food or drinks.
Gratuities (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour. Drive time may change due to unpredictable road traffic. Photography stops on the way can be arranged but within locations with reasonable parking areas.

About Kalutara

Kalutara is a picturesque coastal city in Sri Lanka known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lush greenery. It offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Top Attractions

Richmond Castle

A historic mansion built in the early 20th century, showcasing colonial architecture and lush gardens.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Kalutara Bodhiya

A sacred Bo tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Kalutara Beach

A beautiful beach with golden sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot griddle.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or with meat

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs, sambal, or curry.

Breakfast Vegetarian

String Hoppers

Noodle-like strings made from rice flour, served with curries and sambal.

Lunch Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Beach lounging Spa treatments Visiting temples Exploring historic sites Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers the best weather with minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kalutara is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable taxi services.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
  • • Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranayake International Airport • 60 km
By train

Kalutara Railway Station

By bus

Kalutara Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Kalutara. They connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalutara Town Beach Road

Day trips

Aluthgama
15 km • Half day

A nearby town known for its historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

Beruwala
20 km • Full day

A coastal town with beautiful beaches and water sports activities.

Festivals

Kalutara Bodhiya Festival • February

Pro tips

  • Visit Richmond Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Use local buses for an affordable and scenic way to get around.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interaction with locals.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 7-80
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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