Sri Lanka and the work of Geoffrey Bawa
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Sri Lanka and the work of Geoffrey Bawa
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Sri Lanka and the work of Geoffrey Bawa

An idea for your holiday

Discover Sri Lanka through the lens of its most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa, and the rich heritage that inspired him. Immerse yourself in Bawa’s work by staying in properties he designed, taking in both the traditional Sri Lankan and Dutch Colonial architecture that culminated in Bawa’s signature ‘tropical modernism’ style. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore Sri Lanka’s other cultural highlights, including the ancient Sigiriya rock fortress. Plus, since much of Bawa’s work adorns the southern coast, round off your experience with some rest on palm-fringed beaches - it’s a holiday, after all!

Highlights include:

  • Visit Lunuganga, Bawa’s home and lifelong project and the garden that inspired his career
  • Stay at both Club Villa and The Last House, two gorgeous beachside boutique hotels designed by Bawa as villas on the beautiful south coast
  • Explore The Cultural Triangle where ancient sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura show the importance of Sri Lanka in the architecture field since as far back as 1000CE
  • Stay at the Kandalama Hotel, one of the best examples of Bawa's skill in adapting the design to suit the environment. A one-off property in an enchanting location
  • Visit Bawa’s Colombo residence and the city's parliament complex that he designed (special permission will be obtained!)

Along the way, there will be many stops for little-visited buildings and architectural gems around the country.

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace and style. To find out more about how this suggested itinerary could inspire your holiday, talk to us today.

This is a sample itinerary which we will tailor to suit you. Prices are dependent on destination, flights & dates but ETG holidays always include the following:

  • International flights (if required)
  • Guides, drivers & their tips
  • Accommodation
  • Specified meals & snacks
  • Your immersive experiences
  • Internal & regional transfers

Get in touch with us for your bespoke proposal
or see more on our ETG Pricing Guide

Call for a bespoke proposal 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

Day 1 Depart The UK

Today you’ll depart the UK on an overnight flight to Sri Lanka

Day 2 Negombo

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, your chauffeur-guide will meet you for the short transfer to Jetwing Lagoon. house was one of Bawa’s original hotel projects and is conveniently close to the airport for a first night stop. Availability permitting you’ll stay in The Bawa Room.

Day 3-5 The Cultural Triangle

This morning your chauffeur-guide will whisk you off to the Cultural Triangle where you’ll spend three days exploring the sights while based at Bawa’s terrific Kandalama hotel.

During your time in the Cultural Triangle, you'll experience the spectacular Sigiriya rock fortress, with an early start to avoid the crowds. Explore the Pidurangala Rock Temple, its ancient Sanskrit carvings, and hike to the summit of the temple for stunning views of Sigiriya. There is flexibility built into your tour and a few Experience Travel twists!

Day 6 & 7 Kandy

Transfer to Kandy, and spend two days in and around Sri Lanka’s second city. Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth and consider some of the city's beautiful but less visited temples too. Kandy is surrounded by lush countryside and makes an excellent base for some outdoor adventures should you wish. Accommodation here will be at The Kandy House, a stunning converted aristocratic house.

Day 8 & 9 Colombo

Time to explore the capitalan excellent and there is no better way to do so than with a Colombo City Walk. The engaging local guide will bring the heart of the city to life, and you’ll feel the influences that have shaped Colombo over the years. While in the capital city, there is a chance to visit No 11, Geoffrey Bawa’s Colombo Residence, we'll also obtain special permission for you to explore the parliament complex he designed.  Finish the day with dinner at Paradise Road Café, not just a great spot for a meal but also Bawa’s old office.

Day 10-11 Bentota

Journey with your guide along the coast to Bentota, where you’ll check in to the Bawa designed Club Villa for a two-night stay. During your time here, you’ll get to explore Lunaganga, Bawa’s home, and the place that inspired him to study architecture. There is also a chance to visit his brother’s home with its beautifully landscaped gardens.

Day 12-15 Tangalle

En route from Club Villa to The Last House, you’ll stop for a spot of lunch at The Lighthouse Hotel, one of Bawa’s final projects. Of course, his last house was The Last House, where you’ll spend your last four nights in Sri Lanka. Your time here is free to relax, enjoy the beautiful coastal setting, and reflect on your holiday and adventure.

Day 16 Fly Home

Transfer to Colombo Airport for your flight back to the UK.

Speak to an expert 020 7924 7133 1-888-577-8452

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Every holiday we create is unique. One of our team can talk you through your options...

Hotels & Villas
featured above

Adigar's Manor

Adigar's Manor, Kandy

The 'Walauwa' - a traditional Sri Lankan manor house converted into one of the most beautiful hotels on the island.

Jetwing Lagoon

Jetwing Lagoon , Negombo

This is a great first or last stop on your trip to Sri Lanka: relax and enjoy life on the lagoon.

Kandalama

Kandalama, Dambulla

Kandalama is a luxury hotel in a spellbinding setting, an architectural tour de force from Geoffrey Bawa.

Last House

Last House, Tangalle

The ultimate in Sri Lankan beach villa escape: a super stylish & magnificent Geoffrey Bawa designed villa.

Maniumpathy

Maniumpathy, Colombo

Old world charm and modern comforts in a restored heritage home in Colombo, boasting a relaxing swimming pool.

Villa Bentota

Villa Bentota, Bentota

Fully renovated colonial bungalow offering a beautiful setting just off the sea front of Western Sri Lanka.

Experiences & Activities
featured above

Anuradhapura Ancient City

Anuradhapura Ancient City, Anuradhapura

The ancient city of Anuradhapura points to a civilisation of great sophistication over 2000 years old.

Colombo City Walk

Colombo City Walk, Colombo

Spend a few hours exploring Colombo's architecture, hidden gems and colonial history with local expert Mark Forbes.

Dambulla Cave Temples

Dambulla Cave Temples, Dambulla

Beautiful and decorative cave temples hidden into rocks and ccaves at Dambulla

Lunuganga and Brief Gardens

Lunuganga and Brief Gardens, Bentota

Experience the fascinating world of Geoffrey Bawa on a tour of his country estate

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya

One of the unofficial wonders of the world - a spectacular, must-visit ancient site full of mystery and intrigue

Temple of the Sacred Tooth

Temple of the Sacred Tooth, Kandy

Former royal palace turned temple - home to Sri Lanka's most sacred religious relic

~
Every ETG journey is unique.
Let us inspire you
~

Your next adventure starts with a conversation...

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Nature Trails and Cultural Tales

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