For all those architecture lovers, explore, learn and discover the great masterpieces and creations of the most talented, Geoffrey Bawa. He is known to be the principal force behind the globally known concept of "tropical modernism".
Whilst on this tour, you will uncover his take on Sri Lanka's culture and beautiful panoramas that inspired his creations, which resulted in beautiful courtyards, walkways, and open verandas.
DAY 01:
On arrival you will be met by an English speaking Chauffeur Guide who will thereafter drive you to Negombo. Spend the evening at leisure exploring the old town of Negombo, which is known a traditional fishing town.
Overnight in Negombo.
DAY 02:
After breakfast, you'll be driven to Heritance Kandalama Hotel in Dambulla - a famous creation of Geoffrey Bawa. Check into the hotel and take your time to wander about and explore the beautiful hotel and the ambience of this great masterpiece. During the next couple of days, you will visit the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, where you will visit sites such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, as well as the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Overnight in Heritance Kandalama.
DAY 03:
After breakfast, get ready to climb the 5th Century Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock. It is also recognised by some as the 8th wonder of the world for its architectural marvels, which no architect till date have figured out! Get ready to climb this fortress of unique beauty standing 200 meters from the jungle. Also, witness some astonishing frescoes and a mirror wall.
Thereafter, proceed to Polonnaruwa, (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) which was the 2nd capital city of Sri Lanka, built in the 11th and 12th centuries AD. Here you will witness the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya where 4 splendid statues of the Buddha carved out of the rock can be seen. Moreover, behold the sea of Parakrama, or the Parakrama Samudraya Lake was built by King Parakramabahu the great.
Overnight in Heritance Kandalama.
DAY 04:
After breakfast, proceed to Kandy - the last kingdom of Sri Lanka before being colonized by the British.
En-route visit the Matale Heritage Centre, where you'll be able to witness and explore the Sri Lankan culture and heritage, the rich craft traditions, great quality batik, fine embroidery, carpentry and brass-work. It houses a sprawling compound of bungalows, workshops and gardens.
On arrival in Kandy visit the Temple of the Tooth, this temple contains a relic of the Lord Buddha, it is an ancient King’s Palace, dating back to the 15th century. Enter into a world of Buddhism artefacts, paintings and many other ancient wonders.
Overnight in Kandy.
DAY 05:
With a packed breakfast, you will board the train to Ella. This train ride from Ella to Kandy, is supposed to be one of the most scenic and beautiful journeys in the world.
Upon reaching Ella, check-in to the hotel.
Overnight in Ella.
DAY 06:
After breakfast make a quick visit to the Nine Arches Bridge, which is considered to be one of the engineering marvels in 20th century. Thereafter you will proceed to the South of Sri Lanka, Tangalle.
Check in to The Last House - the last property built by Geoffrey Bawa in Sri Lanka. This extravagant seaside getaway’s windy, antique-filled interiors will undoubtedly make your tour a remarkable one! Thereafter visit the Fitzherbert House, which is now known as the Claughton House, in Dickwella (approximately 30 minutes). This too is a magnificent creation of Bawa.
Overnight in The Last House.
DAY 07:
This morning, you'll be driven to the colonial city of Galle. En route, stop by another masterpiece of Bawa – the Ruhunu University Campus and the Matara Office building - some of the most beautifully created spaces in the area.
Check-in to the Jetwing Lighthouse - another masterpiece by Bawa.
In the afternoon, get ready to explore the Galle Fort. Its rich heritage is acquired from the colonial magnetism of the Portuguese, Dutch and the British apiece, traversing for centuries. The town’s main attraction is the Dutch Fort, around which the city is built. The Fort is one of the few World Heritage-listed sites, and Galle is a city which fascinates most travellers.
Overnight in Jetwing Lighthouse.
DAY 08:
After breakfast proceed to Bentota, with a visit to Heritance Ahungalla on the way, which was designed with interconnecting spaces of water leading the guest into the hotel. Also visit the boutique hotel, Club Villa, a 19th century Dutch Colonial villa re-designed by Mr. Bawa in 1980.
In the afternoon, you will explore Geoffrey Bawa’s country residence, Lunuganga, where you will find that nature has been fused with the amazing design of the country house. Explore Lunuganga the local residence of Mr Bawa. A guided tour will be conducted on the property.
Then proceed to Ibbankatuwa a "Megalithic" burial site, a land of more than 10 acres where you can witness more than 10 graves unearthed and conserved.
Overnight in Paradise Road The Villa Bentota.
DAY 09:
Proceed to the commercial capital of Colombo, en route visiting Blue Waters in Wadduwa - yet another work-piece of Geoffrey Bawa.
In the evening visit Number 11, the house of Geoffrey Bawa followed by a visit to the Sri Lankan Parliament building which too was designed by him.
Overnight in Colombo.
DAY 10:
Bid farewell to Sri Lanka, where you will be driven to the Airport in time for your flight back home.
10 Days