Kalutara Bhodiya

Bentota, Aluthgama & Induruwa


This impressive Buddhist complex features a sacred bodhi tree and a huge hollow dagoba (stupa) with an interesting painted interior depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. It’s immediately south of the Kalu Ganga bridge on the main road.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Bentota, Aluthgama & Induruwa attractions

1. Kechimalai Mosque

7.82 MILES

The first recorded Muslim settlement on the island took place at Beruwela, 6km north of Aluthgama, in 1024. The Kechimalai Mosque, on a headland north of…

2. Brief Garden

10.34 MILES

You'll find the Brief Garden 10 kilometres inland from Bentota. A barely controlled riot of a garden out of The Jungle Book, the grounds are a lovely…

3. Aluthgama Market

11.19 MILES

Aluthgama has a bustling market every Monday, located across the train line, towards Dharga Town.

4. Galapata Raja Temple

12.42 MILES

About 3km inland from Bentota, on the south bank of the Bentota Ganga, this unexpected 12th-century temple has some lovely murals and a 2500-year-old…

5. Traditional Puppet Art Museum

19.98 MILES

Puppet shows were long a part of traditional entertainment in Sri Lankan villages. Performing troupes would stage shows with intricate plots that lasted…

6. Parliament of Sri Lanka

21.49 MILES

Sri Lanka's grand parliament complex, designed by Geoffrey Bawa; visits require a complex series of approvals as outlined on the website.

7. Madu Ganga

22.15 MILES

Between Ambalangoda and Iduruwa the muddy Madu Ganga dances around the coastline forming a complicated network of lagoons and off-shoots. It’s fantastic…

8. Diyatha Uyana

22.2 MILES

On the relatively clean waters of Lake Battaramulla, this modern park has a children's play area as well as food vendors. It's a relaxing place to spend…