Discover the legacy of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the pioneer of Tropical Modernism. This curated 3-day journey is designed for architecture lovers, designers, photographers, and luxury travellers who want to experience Sri Lanka through the lens of timeless design.
Travel from the vibrant city of Colombo to the scenic southern coast, exploring Bawa’s most iconic masterpieces — from his private residence and serene lakeside temples to legendary coastal hotels and his famous country estate, Lunuganga.
This tour blends architecture, nature, heritage, and leisure, allowing guests to understand how Bawa seamlessly connected buildings with landscape, light, water, and space.
Introduction
Geoffrey Bawa (1919–2003) is Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect and the pioneer of Tropical Modernism, a design style that blends modern architecture with lush landscapes, open spaces, and traditional Sri Lankan elements. His work seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living, using courtyards, water features, natural light, and local materials to create calm, luxurious spaces that feel deeply connected to nature.
Bawa’s iconic creations include the enchanting Lunuganga Estate, the elegant Lighthouse Hotel in Galle, and the timeless Heritance Ahungalla. Today, his legacy continues to attract architecture lovers and design enthusiasts from around the world, making a Geoffrey Bawa architectural tour one of the most unique and inspiring experiences for travelers exploring Sri Lanka.
DAY 1 — Colombo Architecture & Design
Floating temple on Beira Lake designed by Bawa
Perfect intro to tropical modernism & sacred space design
Iconic civic building blending nature + governance
Scenic views across Diyawanna Lake
His personal home and studio turned museum
Series of courtyards, light wells & hidden spaces
Guided architectural tour
DAY 2 &3 - Bentota: Where Bawa’s Vision Began
Bawa’s country home & experimental garden
The birthplace of his architectural philosophy
Iconic civic building blending nature + governance
Scenic views across Diyawanna Lake
His personal home and studio turned museum
Series of courtyards, light wells & hidden spaces
Guided architectural tour