My journey to Udakotuwa Temple, also known as Udakotuwa Bodhi Sameepa Rajamaha Viharaya, was a spiritual retreat. Nestled on a tranquil hillock near a gently flowing river, this ancient Buddhist temple exudes an air of serenity and timeless devotion. As I approached, the peaceful surroundings immediately set the tone for a deeply meditative and reflective experience. The Sacred Bodhi Tree: A Symbol of Ancient Devotion One of the temple’s most remarkable features is its ancient Bodhi tree, linked to King Devanampiyatissa’s grand mission of planting Bodhi saplings across Sri Lanka. This tree, a living testament to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage,…

Visiting Lunuganga Estate, the country residence of Geoffrey Bawa, was a truly immersive experience that brought me face-to-face with the soul of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect. Nestled in Bentota, this stunning estate is more than just a home—it’s a living masterpiece where architecture, art, and nature blend seamlessly. For someone who admires thoughtful design and serene landscapes, Lunuganga felt like stepping into Bawa’s mind, where tropical modernism flourished. Arriving at Lunuganga: First Impressions As I entered the estate, the tranquillity of the surroundings struck me immediately. Lunuganga, meaning "Salt River" in Sinhala, overlooks the Dedduwa Lake, and the peaceful water…

During my recent trip to the southern coast of Sri Lanka, one of my most unforgettable experiences was visiting the Victor Hasselblad Turtle Research and Conservation Centre in Kosgoda. Known as the first turtle conservation centre in Sri Lanka, established in 1978, this place is not just a hatchery but a sanctuary where nature’s miracles unfold before your eyes. Finding My Way to the Turtle Sanctuary Getting there was easy. I followed the Galle Road and took the road next to the Kosgoda Police Station. As I arrived, I was greeted by the soothing sound of waves and the warm smiles of the staff, who were…

Along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Induruwa Beach is a tranquil gem offering an idyllic escape for those seeking a serene beach experience. Located in the Southern Province, about 70 kilometres south of Colombo, this small town provides an unspoiled coastal retreat with golden sands, turquoise waters, and a glimpse of Sri Lankan village life. A Scenic and Accessible Location Conveniently positioned between Bentota and Galle, Induruwa Beach is easily accessible yet blissfully untouched by the crowds of mass tourism. The beach's pristine stretch, framed by lush tropical greenery, creates a postcard-perfect setting. The journey to Induruwa is straightforward,…

Located in the small town of Telwatta near Bentota, my visit to the Tsunami Memorial Museum was one of the most emotional and eye-opening experiences of my travels in Sri Lanka. This unassuming museum is not just a collection of photographs and artefacts; it is a powerful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of immense tragedy. A Heartbreaking History The museum chronicles the December 26, 2004, events, a day etched into the hearts of Sri Lankans. On that fateful morning, the Indian Ocean tsunami devastated the island’s coastline, leaving over 50,000 dead in Sri Lanka alone.…

Nestled in the tranquil town of Bentota, far from the bustling beaches, lies the Bemvehera Gane Temple, or The Gane Purana Raja Maha Viharaya—a historical marvel that whispers tales of Sri Lanka’s illustrious past. My visit to this ancient Buddhist temple was a journey into the island's history and a serene spiritual retreat that left a profound impression on me. A Step Back in Time The temple's origins trace back to the Polonnaruwa period, around the 12th century. Walking through the temple grounds, I was struck by the grandeur of its design. It is said that this was once part…

Venturing inland from the coastal town of Bentota, I found myself at the historic Galapatha Temple, a serene sanctuary nestled along the tranquil banks of the Bentota River. Also known as the Bentota Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya, this ancient temple is steeped in history, dating back to the 12th century. Walking through its sacred grounds, I felt a profound connection to Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage and the resilience of a community dedicated to preserving its cultural legacy. Tracing the History The temple's origins are deeply rooted in Sri Lanka's Buddhist tradition. Established during the 12th century, the Galapatha Temple…

Bentota Beach, nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coastal belt, was a captivating getaway that offered a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Known as Ventura Beach, its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters immediately drew me in, creating the ideal setting for a serene escape. A Beach Lover's Paradise Surrounded by lush greenery and tall palm trees, Bentota Beach presented a picturesque landscape. The endless expanse of bright aqua-blue water was mesmerizing, and the tranquil atmosphere made it a sanctuary for relaxation. Whether basking in the sun or strolling along the sandy shores, the beach provided a sense of calmness…

As I embarked on the boat ride along the serene Bentota River, I immersed myself in a world of vibrant greenery and intricate mangrove tunnels. The towering mangroves created a natural canopy, their aerial roots forming fascinating patterns as they stretched into the water. The interplay of sunlight filtering through the dense foliage and casting dappled shadows was mesmerizing. Floating through this tranquil setting felt like stepping into an untouched paradise where nature reigned supreme. Birdwatching and Wildlife Encounters One of the most captivating aspects of the safari was witnessing the vibrant birdlife inhabiting the river's ecosystem. Cormorants dove gracefully…