Malu Banna Water Sports Centre and hotel are gearing up for the high season starting in November 2025 with fresh additions across the property designed for family fun, friends getaways and corporate MICE, all in a relaxed riverside setting on the beautiful Bentota River in Sri Lanka.
New water toys including a 4 person flying just over the water experience and the usual jetski and high speedboat thrills and excitement.
New inflatable big sofas have arrived from Dubai and are being towed around the river by our high-speed boats, with our professional captains adding safe, high-energy fun for groups and families.
Safety briefings and lifejackets are provided for every ride.
Booking options for water-sport packages are available directly through our website.
Seafood restaurant menu
New menu at the seafood restaurant features daily-caught fish, spicy Sri Lankan prawn specials, grilled lobster plates, and lighter ceviche and salads.
Local produce and coastal flavours are emphasised across starters, mains, and sauces.
Lunch and dinner seatings can be reserved with room bookings or as standalone dining reservations.
Riverside bar and drinks
New riverside bar serves fresh fruit juices, creative mocktails, and a selection of cocktails crafted for sunset sipping.
Relaxed riverside seating and informal tapas-style snacks pair with evening river breezes and live light music on weekends.
New extension and accommodation upgrades
Ground floor parking provides dedicated space for buses, vans, and cars.
First floor contains four separate hotel rooms including one family room and three rooms with balconies overlooking River Avenue.
Second floor offers two self-contained suites each with two bedrooms for a deluxe stay by the Bentotta River in luxury apartments.
Rooftop entertainment area is newly completed and perfect for family celebrations and birthdays with open views and flexible seating.
Why Bentotta for a winter holiday
Ideal winter getaway with pleasant temperatures around 30 degrees C, steady offshore winds that create a smooth surfing beach, and calm evenings perfect for sunset walks along the river.
Family-friendly activities and upgraded facilities make Malu Banna a prime choice for seasonal travelers.
Reservations and contact
Book directly at malu-banna.com by clicking the Rooms button on the homepage.
Direct reservations secure rooms, dining, and water-sport packages with priority for high-season dates.
The story of Chatura and Malu Banna Watersports is nothing short of legendary—a tale of determination, vision, and boundless passion that has transformed the Bentota River into a beacon of adventure, hospitality, and Sri Lankan pride.
Chatura wasn’t content with simply casting nets—he dreamed of casting a legacy.
The Birth of Malu Banna Watersports
Chatura’s journey began on the banks of the Bentota River, where he worked alongside his father as a fisherman and uncle as watersports instructor.. The river was his playground, his classroom, and the inspiration of his future calling.
With salt in his veins and ambition in his heart, he ventured to the UAE, where he honed his skills as a diving instructor at a prestigious five-star hotel. There, he absorbed the essence of world-class “customer focussed” hospitality and returned to Sri Lanka with a strong vision that would start as a ripple and develop to a surfing wave across the Sri Lanka tourism industry.
Back in Bentota, Chatura poured his savings, soul, and sweat into building what became Malu Banna Watersports, a family-run haven for aquatic thrills and serene luxury for locals and overseas guests alike.
What started with two boats and a jetski soon blossomed into one of Sri Lanka’s longest-standing and premier activity centres, drawing thrill-seekers, families, and corporate groups from around the globe.
A Riverside Hotel That Redefines Tropical Luxury
Then came the crown jewel: a six-room luxury riverside hotel, perched elegantly above the water, each room boasting a private balcony with panoramic views of the Bentota River.
Guests could wake up to the gentle hum of boat engines and fall asleep to the lullaby of tropical nature and sea breezes straight from the adjacent Indian Ocean.
The sunsets are straight out of a travel magazine—fiery hues melting into the horizon, mirrored perfectly on the river’s surface. It’s not just a stay; it’s an experience and a sensory symphony.
Fishing at Malu Banna – Bentota- Sri Lanka – where the fish comes from boat to table in the same day
Gourmet Seafood Dining with Awesome Views
The riverside restaurant is a culinary celebration of Sri Lanka’s coastal bounty. Guests, both local and international, are treated to gourmet seafood dinners, featuring the freshest catches of the day.
Imagine dining on grilled kingfish or garlic butter prawns whilst watching fishermen drifting with the wind and safari boats cruising across the water. All this under the romantic sky blush with twilight. It’s no wonder Malu Banna has become a must-visit for serious foodies and romantic couples alike.
National Recognition and Government Accolades
Chatura’s unwavering dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Both the Sri Lankan central government and local authorities have honoured him with a Certificate of Achievement and Gold Medal status, recognising his role in elevating Sri Lanka as a top-tier watersports and holiday destination.
His work is more than a business, it’s a patriotic mission, a passion to showcase his motherland to the world, a tropical and natural beauty. The real prize is seeing the faces of the guests enjoy hospitality second to none in the world.
MICE Events and Corporate Excellence
Under Chatura’s visionary leadership, Malu Banna has become the number one choice for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.
The centre regularly hosts groups of up to 450 participants, offering a seamless blend of adventure, team-building, and luxury, all in a natural wonderland.
Prestigious clients like MAS Group, Tata, Wingway, Aitkin Spence and Jetwing all chose Malu Banna for their “high class” corporate retreats, drawn by the professionalism of the team, safety standards, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Championing Inclusivity and Joy for All
In a heart-warming display of compassion and innovation, the Malu Banna team recently underwent “disability awareness training” from Palm Sail International and hosted a ground breaking event for 200 guests with various disabilities. The joy was palpable as participants experienced the thrill of a lifetime in watersports, many for the first time. The event was widely acclaimed, not just for its inclusivity but for its message: that adventure is accessible to all.
Summer 2025, a season of Expansion: A Vision Realised
Just when you think the story couldn’t get more inspiring, Summer 2025 has ushered in a new era of expansion. A state-of-the-art apartment complex and maintenance support facility has been unveiled, complete with parking for cars and buses, ensuring that Malu Banna Watersports Activity Centre can welcome even more guests with increased comfort and ease.
This development is a testament to Chatura’s forward-thinking approach and his commitment to sustainable growth. Solar electricity generation and solar heating for the hotel is just part of Chatura’ dedication to a sustainable island.
In Awe of a Legacy
Chatura’s story is one of transformation, of a boy who fished with his father and dreamed of something bigger. Today, he stands as a national icon, a hospitality trail Blaser, and a champion of Sri Lanka’s tropical paradise.
Malu Banna isn’t just a watersports centre—it’s a living, breathing tribute to what passion, family, and vision can achieve.
You are welcome to come and enjoy the delights of Malu Bana, Bentota, Sri Lanka.
www.malu-banna.com
Call now +94 777 117 400 or use the WhatsApp button
A mangrove safari with Malu Banna in Bentota offers a unique and enriching experience with several advantages:
Ecological Exploration: You get to explore the fascinating and vital mangrove ecosystem. Mangroves are crucial coastal habitats that support a rich biodiversity and act as nurseries for many marine species.
Wildlife Encounters: The safari provides excellent opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Scenic Beauty: The tranquil waterways winding through the lush mangrove forests offer stunning natural landscapes and a peaceful escape.
Educational Value: Experienced guides often provide insightful information about the mangrove ecosystem, the flora and fauna it supports, and its importance for the environment.
Photographic Opportunities: The unique scenery and wildlife provide fantastic opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
Relaxing Experience: Gliding through the calm waters in a boat offers a relaxing and serene experience, away from crowded beaches.
Support for Local Economy: Engaging in tours with local operators like Malu Banna directly contributes to the local economy and supports conservation efforts.
Accessibility: Bentota is a well-known tourist area with easy access to the Bentota River and the Malu Banna Water Sports & Activities Centre.
Variety of Options: Malu Banna often offers different durations and types of mangrove safaris, allowing you to choose an experience that suits your time and interests. Some may include activities like fish spas.
Inclusivity: Malu Banna is noted for its commitment to inclusivity, striving to provide enjoyable experiences for guests with mixed abilities during the river safari.
What Wildlife is there?
While the exact sightings can vary depending on the time of day, season, and the specific area explored, you can typically expect to see the following wildlife during a mangrove safari with Malu Banna in Bentota.
Reptiles:
Crocodiles: Mugger crocodiles are a common sight in the Bentota River.
Water Monitors: These large lizards are often seen basking on the riverbanks or swimming in the water.
Snakes: Various species of snakes may be spotted in the trees or near the water.
Mammals:
Monkeys: Troops of toque macaques and possibly other monkey species are often seen in the trees along the riverbanks.
Water Shrews: These small mammals may be seen near the water’s edge.
Birds: The mangrove ecosystem is a haven for a wide variety of birdlife, including:
Herons: Different types of herons, such as grey herons and purple herons, are frequently observed.
Egrets: Little egrets and great egrets are common.
Kingfishers: Several species of colorful kingfishers can be spotted darting along the river.
Cormorants: These water birds are often seen drying their wings.
Storks: Various types of storks may be present.
Birds of Prey: Keep an eye out for eagles and other raptors.
Numerous other wetland bird species.
Fish: While not always easily visible from the surface, the waters teem with various fish species that are part of the mangrove ecosystem.
Crabs and Other Crustaceans: You might spot different types of crabs and other crustaceans living in the mud and among the mangrove roots.
Important Considerations:
The best times for wildlife viewing are usually early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active.
Be respectful of the wildlife and their habitat. Maintain a safe distance and avoid making loud noises.
Wearing appropriate clothing (lightweight, breathable) and bringing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent is recommended.
A mangrove safari with Malu Banna in Bentota offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, observe diverse wildlife, and appreciate the ecological importance of these unique coastal ecosystems.
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Youtuber visit with family and review of hotel room, restaurant and boat rides.
Our eco and sustainability program aims to balance ecological, economic and social goals, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy and ensuring equitable resource access.
After a day exploring the delights of Sri Lanka and a safari on the Bentota River, indulge in a wonderful evening meal with some fresh fish great local vegetables and a satisfying glass of Lion.
Local Sri Lankan dishes are council and tasty. If you like “spicy and hot” just let the chef know and he will make it to your choice.
Start the day with a healthy breakfast locally produced fresh fruits have a taste that is so awesome you simply do not get from the European supermarkets.
Breakfast malu banna Bentota Sri LankaManu Banna fresh fruit breakfast BENTOTA Sri Lanka
There is no better location to enjoy breakfast. The fresh sea breeze invigorating the body as you relax watching the early morning activity of fishing boats passing by.
Omelettes made to order using locally produced fresh eggs, fresh vegetables and if you need some local spices.
Try a pinch of local Sri Lankan cinnamon with your omelette for a slightly different and exotic flavour.
Fresh local egg omelette
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