Lunuganga
Architect Geoffrey Bawa’s home,
Gorgeous garden
Couples,
Art lovers
This ravishing boutique hotel was once the great Geoffrey Bawa’s own home. The legendary architect poured forty years into transforming this abandoned rubber and cinnamon estate into an idyllic garden paradise.
Although influenced by Renaissance Italy and England in the 19th century, Bawa claimed that the garden planned itself.
A tropical paradise of many moods, shady clearings in the jungle complement lily ponds framed with frangipani, with glorious lake views to boot. Steps lead guests to private bathing in the lake. Over 200 varieties of trees create shaded nooks for private contemplation.
And then there are the buildings themselves: testaments to Bawa’s artistic vision.
Light, space and environment make the living spaces, well, entirely livable. The eye is drawn to appreciate the gorgeous natural surroundings.
It’s difficult to put into words how unique this hotel is. Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage is blessed with such an estate, and a stay at Lunuganga is a privilege.
The Rooms
Antiques, sculptures, and a big old tub complete the guest room, and moss scales the courtyard walls.
Previously a cowshed, the Gallery is now a magnificent two-storey tribute to art and includes a portrait of Bawa by Sri Lanka’s own Laki Senanayake.
The Long Room is lined by two walls of glass, which bathe the four-poster bed in sunlight.
The Donald Friend Room is named after the artist and was home to Bawa’s good friend back in the day.
For complete privacy, a two-bedroom lakeside cottage is available for rent.
What You'll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in Sri Lanka
A few of our favourite routes – hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans – just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Lunuganga on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
The Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka
Wondering when to visit Sri Lanka? Our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka will give you a more detailed breakdown of the best time of year to book a holiday, as well as tips on the best beaches, unmissable sites, and much more.