Courtyards & Verandahs –
Geoffrey Bawa Architecture Tour in Sri Lanka

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Courtyards & Verandahs

Courtyards & Verandahs –
Geoffrey Bawa Architecture Tour in Sri Lanka

Step into the world of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect, Geoffrey Bawa. This tour takes you through his iconic creations—from tranquil gardens and coastal villas to timeless hotels that blend nature with design. Experience how light, space, and landscape harmonize to tell the story of tropical modernism.

Why You’ll Love this Cycling Tour Package

  • Discover the architectural philosophy behind Sri Lanka’s most inspiring spaces.

  • Explore masterpieces like Lunuganga, Number 11, and Kandalama Hotel.

  • Enjoy a curated journey combining art, culture, and scenic beauty.

  • Perfect for architecture lovers, designers, and anyone inspired by creative vision.

Is This Trip Right For You?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate architecture, art, and design. It suits those seeking a slow-paced, immersive journey that goes beyond sightseeing—connecting culture, nature, and creativity. If you enjoy serene spaces, photography, and thoughtful design, this trip is made for you.

Inclusions

Meals

Tailored to Your Preference

Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing

Accommodation

Hotel stay for 7 nights

Included Activities

Itinerary

Day 1

Airport → Negombo

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your Nalanka Travel Sri Lanka representative and chauffeur guide, who will accompany you to the charming coastal town of Negombo. Take time to relax and recover from your journey in this lively seaside destination known for its cultural diversity and colonial heritage.

If you wish to explore, your guide can take you on a scenic city tour to discover Negombo’s highlights — from historic churches and bustling markets to a serene boat ride along the Dutch Canal. Or simply unwind on the golden sands of Negombo Beach, enjoying your first sunset in paradise.

Overnight Stay: Negombo
Hotel: Nalanka Beach Resort (or similar)
Highlights: City tour of Negombo

Negombo → Anuradhapura → Kandalama

Begin your morning with a visit to the lively ‘Lellama’ Fish Market in Negombo, where fishermen trade their fresh catch from the night before — a glimpse into the authentic rhythm of coastal life.

Leaving the coast behind, journey inland to the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital. Explore its timeless wonders with your chauffeur guide, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, and Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

By evening, arrive at one of Geoffrey Bawa’s architectural masterpieces — Heritance Kandalama, an eco-luxury hotel seamlessly built into the surrounding rock and forest, embodying harmony between nature and design.

Overnight Stay: Kandalama
Hotel: Heritance Kandalama
Highlights:

  • ‘Lellama’ Fish Market

  • Sacred City of Anuradhapura

Kandalama → Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Kandalama

Start your morning with a climb up the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 5th century, this ancient royal citadel features exquisite frescoes, landscaped gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.

In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration at the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Once the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, its well-preserved ruins reveal the brilliance of ancient craftsmanship. Explore sites such as Lankathilaka, Thuparamaya, Royal Palace, Rankoth Vehera, Gal Viharaya, and Vatadage — timeless symbols of the island’s glorious past.

Overnight Stay: Kandalama
Hotel: Heritance Kandalama
Highlights:

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress

  • Polonnaruwa Heritage City

Dambulla → Matale → Kandy

Begin your journey toward Kandy with a visit to the Matale Heritage Centre, where you can admire the artistic creations of Ena de Silva — a close friend and collaborator of Geoffrey Bawa. Her distinctive designs, rich in Sri Lankan craftsmanship, played an important role in many of Bawa’s architectural works.

Continue to Kandy, the cultural and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, home to the sacred tooth of Lord Buddha, one of the most venerated sites in the Buddhist world. Stroll through the bustling streets and colorful markets, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from Upper Lake Drive.

Overnight Stay: Kandy
Hotel: Nalanka Kandy Gallery (or similar)
Highlights:

  • Matale Heritage Centre

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic

Kandy → Bandarawela → Ella

Journey into Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country with a scenic drive through lush tea plantations and misty mountain landscapes. En route, visit the Chapel of the Good Shepherd’s Convent in Bandarawela — an elegant architectural creation by Geoffrey Bawa and Ulrik Plesner, blending simplicity and serenity.

Continue onward to Ella, a charming mountain town celebrated for its breathtaking views and cool climate. Along the way, stop at two of its most iconic landmarks — the majestic Ravana Ella Falls and the world-famous Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, an engineering marvel surrounded by emerald-green tea fields.

Settle in for the night at 98 Acres Resort & Spa, a stylish eco-luxury retreat nestled within a vast tea estate, offering the perfect blend of comfort and nature.

Overnight Stay: Ella
Hotel: 98 Acres Resort & Spa
Highlights:

  • Demodara Nine Arch Bridge

  • Ravana Falls

Ella → Galle

Travel from the misty hills of Ella to the southern coast, stopping along the way to visit two lesser-known works by Geoffrey Bawa — the Ruhuna University Campus and the Matara Post Office, both showcasing his signature blend of modern design and local context.

Pause for lunch at Heritance Ahungalla, a coastal masterpiece inspired by Bawa’s architectural vision, before continuing your journey to Galle — Sri Lanka’s oldest living city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, art galleries, cafés, and boutiques, Galle offers the perfect mix of history and modern charm.

End your day at Jetwing Lighthouse, one of Bawa’s finest creations, where the elegance of design meets the soothing rhythm of the ocean.

Overnight Stay: Galle
Hotel: Jetwing Lighthouse
Highlights:

  • Ruhuna University

  • Matara Post Office

  • Galle Fort

Galle → Colombo

Depart from Galle and make a memorable stop at Lunuganga Estate, Geoffrey Bawa’s serene country home and living masterpiece. Enjoy an alfresco lunch surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil lakes before continuing to Colombo, the bustling commercial capital.

In the afternoon, explore Colombo with your chauffeur guide — stroll through the vibrant Pettah Market, admire the colonial charm of the Fort area, and visit landmarks such as the Hindu Temple at Sea Street and the Dutch Church at Wolfendhal.

Later, step into the world of Bawa once more with a visit to his iconic residence, No. 11, for a guided tour. End your evening with dinner at Paradise Road Gallery Café, once Bawa’s own office — a perfect finale to your architectural journey.

Overnight Stay: Colombo
Hotel: Galle Face Hotel (or similar)
Highlights:

  • Lunuganga Estate

  • Bawa House (No. 11)

  • Paradise Road Gallery Café

Colombo → Airport

As your unforgettable Nalanka Travel Sri Lanka journey comes to a close, your chauffeur guide will accompany you to the airport for your departure flight.

Speak to a Travel Specialist

Let’s Talk

Nalanka Travel Tour Advisor

Contact Number

+94 705 222 111

Email

Inquiries@nalankatravels.com

Itinerary

Day 1

Airport → Negombo

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your Nalanka Travel Sri Lanka representative and chauffeur guide, who will accompany you to the charming coastal town of Negombo. Take time to relax and recover from your journey in this lively seaside destination known for its cultural diversity and colonial heritage.

If you wish to explore, your guide can take you on a scenic city tour to discover Negombo’s highlights — from historic churches and bustling markets to a serene boat ride along the Dutch Canal. Or simply unwind on the golden sands of Negombo Beach, enjoying your first sunset in paradise.

Overnight Stay: Negombo
Hotel: Nalanka Beach Resort (or similar)
Highlights: City tour of Negombo

Negombo → Anuradhapura → Kandalama

Begin your morning with a visit to the lively ‘Lellama’ Fish Market in Negombo, where fishermen trade their fresh catch from the night before — a glimpse into the authentic rhythm of coastal life.

Leaving the coast behind, journey inland to the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital. Explore its timeless wonders with your chauffeur guide, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, and Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

By evening, arrive at one of Geoffrey Bawa’s architectural masterpieces — Heritance Kandalama, an eco-luxury hotel seamlessly built into the surrounding rock and forest, embodying harmony between nature and design.

Overnight Stay: Kandalama
Hotel: Heritance Kandalama
Highlights:

  • ‘Lellama’ Fish Market

  • Sacred City of Anuradhapura

Kandalama → Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Kandalama

Start your morning with a climb up the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 5th century, this ancient royal citadel features exquisite frescoes, landscaped gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.

In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration at the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Once the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, its well-preserved ruins reveal the brilliance of ancient craftsmanship. Explore sites such as Lankathilaka, Thuparamaya, Royal Palace, Rankoth Vehera, Gal Viharaya, and Vatadage — timeless symbols of the island’s glorious past.

Overnight Stay: Kandalama
Hotel: Heritance Kandalama
Highlights:

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress

  • Polonnaruwa Heritage City

Dambulla → Matale → Kandy

Begin your journey toward Kandy with a visit to the Matale Heritage Centre, where you can admire the artistic creations of Ena de Silva — a close friend and collaborator of Geoffrey Bawa. Her distinctive designs, rich in Sri Lankan craftsmanship, played an important role in many of Bawa’s architectural works.

Continue to Kandy, the cultural and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, home to the sacred tooth of Lord Buddha, one of the most venerated sites in the Buddhist world. Stroll through the bustling streets and colorful markets, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from Upper Lake Drive.

Overnight Stay: Kandy
Hotel: Nalanka Kandy Gallery (or similar)
Highlights:

  • Matale Heritage Centre

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic

Kandy → Bandarawela → Ella

Journey into Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country with a scenic drive through lush tea plantations and misty mountain landscapes. En route, visit the Chapel of the Good Shepherd’s Convent in Bandarawela — an elegant architectural creation by Geoffrey Bawa and Ulrik Plesner, blending simplicity and serenity.

Continue onward to Ella, a charming mountain town celebrated for its breathtaking views and cool climate. Along the way, stop at two of its most iconic landmarks — the majestic Ravana Ella Falls and the world-famous Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, an engineering marvel surrounded by emerald-green tea fields.

Settle in for the night at 98 Acres Resort & Spa, a stylish eco-luxury retreat nestled within a vast tea estate, offering the perfect blend of comfort and nature.

Overnight Stay: Ella
Hotel: 98 Acres Resort & Spa
Highlights:

  • Demodara Nine Arch Bridge

  • Ravana Falls

Ella → Galle

Travel from the misty hills of Ella to the southern coast, stopping along the way to visit two lesser-known works by Geoffrey Bawa — the Ruhuna University Campus and the Matara Post Office, both showcasing his signature blend of modern design and local context.

Pause for lunch at Heritance Ahungalla, a coastal masterpiece inspired by Bawa’s architectural vision, before continuing your journey to Galle — Sri Lanka’s oldest living city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, art galleries, cafés, and boutiques, Galle offers the perfect mix of history and modern charm.

End your day at Jetwing Lighthouse, one of Bawa’s finest creations, where the elegance of design meets the soothing rhythm of the ocean.

Overnight Stay: Galle
Hotel: Jetwing Lighthouse
Highlights:

  • Ruhuna University

  • Matara Post Office

  • Galle Fort

Galle → Colombo

Depart from Galle and make a memorable stop at Lunuganga Estate, Geoffrey Bawa’s serene country home and living masterpiece. Enjoy an alfresco lunch surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil lakes before continuing to Colombo, the bustling commercial capital.

In the afternoon, explore Colombo with your chauffeur guide — stroll through the vibrant Pettah Market, admire the colonial charm of the Fort area, and visit landmarks such as the Hindu Temple at Sea Street and the Dutch Church at Wolfendhal.

Later, step into the world of Bawa once more with a visit to his iconic residence, No. 11, for a guided tour. End your evening with dinner at Paradise Road Gallery Café, once Bawa’s own office — a perfect finale to your architectural journey.

Overnight Stay: Colombo
Hotel: Galle Face Hotel (or similar)
Highlights:

  • Lunuganga Estate

  • Bawa House (No. 11)

  • Paradise Road Gallery Café

Colombo → Airport

As your unforgettable Nalanka Travel Sri Lanka journey comes to a close, your chauffeur guide will accompany you to the airport for your departure flight.

Featured Experience

Embrace Extraordinary Adventures

Sigiriya Rock
Ascend the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest ancient marvels. Along the way, admire the world-famous frescoes painted on the rock face, and upon reaching the summit, take in breathtaking 360° views surrounded by the timeless ruins of King Kashyapa’s royal citadel.
Colombo National Museum
Housed in a grand colonial-era building set amidst lush gardens, the Colombo National Museum preserves Sri Lanka’s rich heritage through an impressive collection of ancient relics, royal regalia, artworks, and historic artefacts that tell the story of the island’s vibrant past.
Demodara Bridge
An awe-inspiring colonial-era engineering marvel, the Nine Arch Bridge at Demodara stands 24 meters high and stretches 91 meters across a lush green valley. Famous for its elegant arches and scenic railway loop, it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed and must-visit landmarks.

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