Take time off to visit a piece of unspoiled scenery in the Maduganaga estuary. It is easily accessed from Galle and makes a good day trip. Enjoy a day on the water and luxuriate in the quietness and beauty of the location and the abundant and varied wetland vegetation and the diverse fauna.
Maduganga, a shallow body of water is a part of the Maduganga wetland which is one of the largest complex coastal wetland eco - systems in the country. Covering 915 ha it includes 36 islets the biggest of which of is Ma Doowa with a length of 562 meters. The smallest is Satha Paha Doowa (five cent island) which is apparently in the shape of a coin of that denomination. A really long narrow wooden bridge connects Ma Doowa to Balapitiya town.
Acting like a bio lock the Maduganga protects and nurtures some 303 species of plants belonging to 95 families among which is 10 different types of wet land vegetation, 248 species of vertebrates including 70 species of fish, 12 amphibian and 31 reptiles, invertebrates comprising 50 species of butterflies and 25 species of mollusks. The mangroves and mangrove mixed swamps have contributed to the rich biodiversity and have created an ideal home for 111 species of birds including winter migrants. To view all this rich biodiversity wend your way through tunnels of green where the branches of the mangrove plants entwine overhead making green tinted caves to be explored. Visit the ancient Buddhist temple on Kothduwa Island. See the traditional fishing kraals set up to trap shrimp and witness cinnamon peeling and distilling of cinnamon oil, the primary occupations of the islanders. This area with high ecological, biological and aesthetic significance is free for all to view and enjoy. The remarkable biodiversity of the Maduganga estuary has lead to it being classified under the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands in 2003.
Advantageously located with river and ocean access Bentota Beach Hotel has long been a favourite with many people wanting the ultimate beach holiday. Equipped with excellent water sport facilities and an up to date sports centre this
Bentota beach hotel promises guests vacations with plenty of action and at the same time spaces to kick back and experience rejuvenation and relaxation. With its excellent location and many features for a vacation full of diverse aspects it is no wonder that it is still one of the foremost
Bentota hotels.
