Geoffrey Bawa Tour
Geoffrey Bawa Tour in Sri Lanka is a fascinating journey for architecture enthusiasts and those interested in exploring the works of one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned architects. Geoffrey Bawa (1919-2003) was a prominent architect who made a significant impact on the field of tropical modern architecture. His designs are known for their integration with nature and the environment, creating a unique and harmonious relationship between buildings and the landscape.
To go on a Geoffrey Bawa tour in Sri Lanka, you can visit several key destinations and buildings associated with his work. Some of the notable places and properties that are often included in such tours include:
- Lunuganga Estate: This was Geoffrey Bawa’s country estate and is considered one of his most iconic works. It’s located in Bentota, and the estate features a beautiful garden, a series of interconnected buildings, and a distinct design that exemplifies his approach to architecture.
- Brief Garden: This garden and residence in Kalawila, near Bentota, was also designed by Bawa and is known for its lush landscapes and unique architectural elements.
- The Gallery Café: Located in Colombo, The Gallery Café is a restaurant and art gallery designed by Geoffrey Bawa. It’s a popular spot to experience his architectural style while enjoying a meal.
- Heritance Kandalama: This hotel, located near Dambulla, is another example of Bawa’s innovative design, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings and overlooking the Kandalama Reservoir.
- Seema Malaka: This floating temple in Colombo’s Beira Lake was redesigned by Bawa in a contemporary architectural style. While not one of his major works, it showcases his versatility in architectural design.
- Geoffrey Bawa’s Residence: If you have the opportunity, visiting Bawa’s own residence in Colombo can be a unique experience to see his personal space and design philosophy up close.
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
- Arrive in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
- Check in to your hotel and relax after your journey.
- Evening Activity: Start your tour with a visit to The Gallery Café for dinner, a restaurant designed by Geoffrey Bawa.
Day 2: Colombo
- Architectural Exploration: Explore Colombo’s urban architecture, including the Independence Memorial Hall, influenced by Bawa’s design philosophy.
- Visit Seema Malaka, the floating temple redesigned by Geoffrey Bawa.
- Overnight Stay: Colombo.
Day 3: Bentota
- Travel to Bentota, home to Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic Lunuganga Estate.
- Activity: Spend the day exploring Lunuganga Estate and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Overnight Stay: Bentota.
Day 4: Bentota
- Continued Exploration: Further explore Lunuganga Estate.
- Visit: Brief Garden in Kalawila, another of Bawa’s designs, renowned for its stunning garden layout and artistic elements.
- Overnight Stay: Bentota.
Day 5: Galle
- Drive to Galle, a historic city on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka.
- Visit: Bawa’s Villa Surya, a beautiful beachfront villa showcasing his unique design style.
- Explore: Galle Fort and its architectural marvels, blending Dutch colonial style with Bawa’s modernist touches.
- Overnight Stay: Galle.
Day 6: Galle
- Spend the day exploring Galle’s historic and architectural sites, including other properties and buildings influenced by Geoffrey Bawa.
- Overnight Stay: Galle.
Day 7: Dambulla
- Head towards Dambulla to visit the Heritance Kandalama, a stunning eco-friendly hotel designed by Geoffrey Bawa, seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.
- Explore: The surroundings, including the scenic Kandalama Reservoir.
- Overnight Stay: Dambulla.
Day 8: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore more of Dambulla or visit other nearby sites influenced by Bawa.
- Departure: Conclude your Geoffrey Bawa architectural tour and depart from Sri Lanka.
- Accommodations: Accommodation at hotels or resorts for the duration of your stay. The level of accommodation can vary from budget to luxury, depending on your preferences and budget.
- Transportation: This includes airport transfers, as well as transportation to and from the various destinations on your itinerary. It may be by private vehicle, coach, or other means, depending on the package.
- Meals: Some packages include breakfast.
- Sightseeing and Guided Tours: Guided tours of cultural and historical sites, monuments, and attractions. These tours are typically led by experienced guides who provide insights into the history and culture of the places you visit.
- Entrance Fees: In many cases, entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, and attractions are included in the package.
- International flights and visa.
- Tipping – an entirely personal gesture.
