Bentota River Waterdrome (BJT)

Bentota, LK 🇱🇰 Seaplane Base Scheduled Service

ICAO

BJT

IATA

BJT

Elevation

- ft

Region

LK-1

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: Not available

Local Code: Not available

Location: 6.431° N, 79.996° E

Continent: Asia

Type: Seaplane Base

What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Traveler sentiment regarding Bentota River Waterdrome (BJT) is largely intertwined with the highly positive experiences of the Bentota River Safari. While specific reviews for the waterdrome's terminal facilities, security, or customs are scarce, the overall satisfaction for visitors to the Bentota River area, often arriving via seaplane, is very high due to the captivating natural beauty and wildlife encounters. The waterdrome primarily serves as a convenient gateway to these popular river excursions.

What Travelers Love
  • Scenic Seaplane Arrivals/Departures: While not extensively reviewed as an airport, the context suggests that arrivals and departures by seaplane offer picturesque views and a unique travel experience.
  • Bentota River Safari: This is the overwhelming highlight, consistently praised for its lush mangroves and diverse wildlife. Travelers frequently spot crocodiles, monitor lizards, various bird species (kingfishers, eagles), and monkeys.
  • Engaging Guides: Safari guides are often commended for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to spot animals, enhancing the experience significantly. Some guides even provide treats for monkey feeding, which is a memorable interaction.
  • Relaxing and Educational: The boat tours are described as peaceful and provide insights into the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.
  • Basic Facilities: The Bentota River Airport (BJT) offers basic lounge facilities with comfortable seating and waiting areas.
  • Convenient Parking: Parking facilities are available and are described as secure and conveniently located near the terminal.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Airport-Specific Information: There is a notable lack of detailed traveler reviews concerning the waterdrome's terminal facilities, cleanliness, security wait times, or customs/immigration processes, suggesting it operates more as a basic embarkation point rather than a full-service airport.
  • Weather Dependency: As a waterdrome, operations are inherently subject to weather conditions, particularly during heavy rains, which can affect water levels and potentially limit certain activities or views.

Overall, Bentota River Waterdrome (BJT) functions effectively as a small seaplane base, providing access to the highly-rated Bentota River Safari. While it may not offer extensive conventional airport amenities, the seamless connection to the celebrated river experience with its natural beauty and wildlife is the primary driver of high traveler satisfaction in the region.

Last updated: 70 days ago
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Airport Routes

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Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

There is no formal taxi rank at the Bentota River Waterdrome itself, as it is a small seaplane landing point, not a traditional airport terminal. However, local taxis and three-wheeler tuk-tuks are abundant in the Bentota area and can be easily hailed from the nearby road. Most travelers pre-arrange transfers through their hotel, which is the most convenient option. Ride-hailing apps like PickMe and Uber may also operate in the area.

Rental Cars

No car rental companies have desks or offices at the waterdrome. To rent a car, you must make arrangements in advance with a rental agency located in the town of Bentota or a larger city like Colombo. The rental company can typically arrange for the vehicle to be delivered to your hotel or another specified location.

Public Transportation

There are no direct public transport connections at the waterdrome. The nearest public transit hubs are the Bentota Railway Station, which is on the main coastal line connecting Colombo and Galle, and bus stops along the main Galle Road. To access either the train station or a bus, you will need to take a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride from the waterdrome landing area.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.