Explore historic Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya
Bentota, Sri Lanka • 
Popular
PopularBentota, Sri Lanka
Popular
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Dec
23°C – 30°C, january in bentota features warm temperatures with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, high crowds, peak season
23°C – 30°C, january in bentota features warm temperatures with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Temple has stairs; limited wheelchair access.
Temple has stairs; limited wheelchair access.
Value for money
High
Free entry and a rich cultural experience is a great
Free entry and a rich cultural experience is a great
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Serene Atmosphere
Couples loved the peaceful setting, perfect for quiet reflection and enjoying the culture.
Historical Beauty
The ancient carvings and murals offered couples a glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.
Cultural Insight
Visitors felt the temple offered a profound spiritual experience and cultural immersion.
Limited Access
Some couples found parts of the temple were occasionally locked and inaccessible.
Modest Attire
Visitors had to remember the modest dress code, which may be inconvenient.
Remote Location
The location, while serene, required a bit of effort to reach for some couples.
Hours of operation
Monday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Tuesday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Wednesday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Thursday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Friday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Sunday
06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
February
HIGH
24-31°C
February continues the trend of warm temperatures and low rainfall, providing pleasant conditions for visitors.
February continues the trend of warm temperatures and low rainfall, providing pleasant conditions for visitors.
Open
High demand may limit availability; advance reservations are advisable.
High demand may limit availability; advance reservations are advisable.
Recommended
The combination of favorable weather and cultural events makes February a popular time to explore Bentota's historic sites.
The combination of favorable weather and cultural events makes February a popular time to explore Bentota's historic sites.
March
MEDIUM
25-31°C
March experiences slightly higher temperatures and a modest increase in rainfall, yet remains suitable for tourism.
March experiences slightly higher temperatures and a modest increase in rainfall, yet remains suitable for tourism.
Open
Greater availability of accommodations and services as the peak season winds down.
Greater availability of accommodations and services as the peak season winds down.
Recommended
March offers a balance of good weather and reduced crowds, making it a favorable time to visit the Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya.
March offers a balance of good weather and reduced crowds, making it a favorable time to visit the Galapatha Raja Maha Viharaya.
April
MEDIUM
26-31°C
April is the warmest month, with increased rainfall marking the onset of the monsoon season.
April is the warmest month, with increased rainfall marking the onset of the monsoon season.
Open
Some services may adjust schedules due to the beginning of the monsoon season.
Some services may adjust schedules due to the beginning of the monsoon season.
Recommended
April's warm temperatures and cultural events provide a unique experience, though visitors should be prepared for occasional rain.
April's warm temperatures and cultural events provide a unique experience, though visitors should be prepared for occasional rain.
May
LOW
25-30°C
May in Bentota is characterized by warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30.2°C. However, it marks the onset of the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity.
May in Bentota is characterized by warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30.2°C. However, it marks the onset of the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity.
Open
Some outdoor activities may be limited due to heavy rainfall.
Some outdoor activities may be limited due to heavy rainfall.
Not recommended
May is not ideal for visiting Bentota due to heavy rains and high humidity. If you choose to visit, be prepared for wet conditions and limited outdoor activities.
May is not ideal for visiting Bentota due to heavy rains and high humidity. If you choose to visit, be prepared for wet conditions and limited outdoor activities.
How to get there
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis are readily available for direct transport to the temple from Bentota and Aluthgama.
Walking
Recommended
Walking is a viable option for those staying in close proximity to the temple.
Bus
Public buses connect to Bentota, with a tuk-tuk ride needed to reach the temple.
Car
The temple is accessible by car via the Colombo-Galle main road, with parking available on-site.
Train
The Bentota Railway Station is approximately 4 kilometers from the temple; a tuk-tuk ride is needed to reach the temple.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
