Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Aluthgama has a raucous fish market, local shops and the main train station in the area.
Induruwa doesn't really have a centre - it's spread out along the coast.
In 2014, clashes erupted between supporters of a militant Buddhist group (Bodu Bala
Sena) and the local Muslim population, following a rally organised by the Buddhist hard-
liners. Up to four people were killed, many were injured and a number of properties were
destroyed. At the time of research, there had been no further incidents.
Sights
If it's a
beach
you want, then it's a beach you're going to get; the Bentota area is home to
some of the best beaches in all the country. Yet there is something altogether odd about
these magnificent stretches of sand - despite the huge number of hotels and the fact that
most people come to Sri Lanka for the three S's of sun, sand and surf, the beaches at the
southern end of this strip are remarkably empty of people. Quite why this is we're not
sure, but if the sands of nearby Hikkaduwa are a bit too trodden for your liking, then
Bentota might be the place for you. Further watery fun is also available on the calm waters
of the
Bentota Ganga
, though pollution can be an issue here.
Aluthgama has a bustling
market
every Monday, located across the train line, towards
Dharga Town. A few kilometres inland on the south bank of the river is the
Galapota
Temple
, which is said to date from the 12th century. To reach it, cross the bridge and take
the side road to your left after 500m.
Brief Garden
GARDENS
( 077 350 9290, 227 4462;
www.briefgarden.com
;admission Rs 1000; 8am-5pm)
Ten kilometres inland from Bentota is the Brief Garden. A barely controlled riot of a
garden out of
The Jungle Book
, the grounds are a lovely place to get lost. The house,
which used to be the home of Bevis Bawa, brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa,
has an eclectic range of artwork on display - from homoerotic sculpture to a wonderful
mural of Sri Lankan life in the style of Marc Chagall.
To get here, follow the road south from Aluthgama to Matagama Rd and turn inland to
the village of Dharga Town. From here you will periodically see yellow signs saying
'Brief', but as everyone knows this place, it's easy enough to ask directions. There's no
public transport.
