Private Travel
Sri Lanka
Private
Private Tour
Colombo to Colombo – 13 Days
Embark on "Geoffrey Bawa's Legacy: An Architectural Sri Lanka Journey," a meticulously crafted tour designed to explore the island through the eyes of its most celebrated architect. From the tranquil gardens of The Wallawwa in Kotugoda to the iconic Heritance Kandalama that merges with Dambulla's jungle landscape, this journey invites you to experience the harmony between architecture and nature that Bawa so masterfully achieved. Delve into the heart of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and natural beauty, staying in accommodations that embody Bawa's vision of tropical modernism, and visiting sites that showcase his influence on the island's architectural landscape.
This adventure continues to the serene beaches and lush landscapes of Tangalle, where Bawa's final masterpiece, the Last House, offers a haven of coastal bliss. The tour culminates in the historic and vibrant streets of Colombo, staying at The Tintagel and dining at The Gallery, places closely connected to Bawa's legacy. Along the way, visit ancient temples, engage with local communities, and explore the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's history and culture, all through the lens of Geoffrey Bawa's architectural genius. This journey promises an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka's architectural marvels, cultural depth, and natural splendour.
HERITANCE KANDALAMA: Immerse yourself in Geoffrey Bawa's visionary integration of architecture with the natural environment at Heritance Kandalama, an eco-friendly hotel that seamlessly blends into its surroundings, offering breathtaking views of the landscape and ancient historical sites.
THE LAST HOUSE: Experience the serene elegance of Geoffrey Bawa’s final architectural creation, The Last House, a peaceful haven situated between the calmness of a lagoon and the vastness of the sea, epitomizing his genius in tropical modernist design.
LUNUGANGA ESTATE: Wander through Geoffrey Bawa’s personal sanctuary, Lunuganga Estate, where his deep affinity for landscape and architectural innovation flourishes within the confines of a meticulously transformed rubber plantation, reflecting his lifelong dedication to design and nature.
PARLIAMENT BUILDING: Behold the architectural splendor of the Parliament Building in Colombo, an iconic testament to Geoffrey Bawa’s forward-thinking approach to civic architecture, majestically poised on a man-made lake, symbolizing the harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic beauty.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition. a
Private Travel
Light Moderate
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This tour is a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s most significant architectural sites, influenced by the legendary Geoffrey Bawa. Experience his iconic designs, from eco-friendly hotels to personal retreats, in a journey that blends architecture with Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Begin your Sri Lankan journey with a transfer to Kotugoda, where the colonial charm of The Wallawwa awaits you. Nestled amidst lush gardens, this deluxe boutique hotel serves as an ideal starting point for relaxation and exploration. After your travel, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage, embracing the serene ambiance and luxurious comfort that sets the tone for the adventures ahead.
Embark on a scenic 4-hour journey to Dambulla, home to Geoffrey Bawa’s architectural masterpiece, the Heritance Kandalama. Described as “an austere jungle palace,” this hotel is a marvel of eco-friendly design, blending into the jungle and offering panoramic views of Kandalama Lake. Your exploration extends to the ancient Buddhist cave temples and the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, immersing you in the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's history. Spend the night enveloped in the luxury and natural beauty of the Heritance Kandalama.
Delve deeper into the naturalist’s paradise at the Heritance Kandalama. Challenge yourself with the climb up 1,840 steps to Mihintale rock, a site of immense Buddhist significance. Discover the Mahakanadarawa stone bridge, a marvel of ancient engineering nestled in the forest. Marvel at the resilience of a 2,500-year-old irrigation system that still functions today. Retreat to the comfort of the Heritance Kandalama, reflecting on the day’s historical and natural wonders.
Journey to Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka, a town encircled by mountains and a serene lake. Your afternoon is filled with the exploration of the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, a haven of flora, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth, housing a revered relic of Buddha. These sites offer a deep dive into the spiritual and natural beauty that defines Kandy.
Spend a tranquil day in Kandy, strolling around the serene Kandy Lake and venturing into the Udawattekele Sanctuary to experience the primeval forest. For tea enthusiasts, a visit to the Tea Museum provides an insightful look into the history and culture of Sri Lankan tea. Enjoy another peaceful evening in Kandy, soaking in the town's sleepy charm.
Travel into the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country, the Bogawantalawa Valley, where the landscape transforms into a verdant tapestry of tea plantations, rolling hills, and waterfalls. Stay at Tea Trails, where colonial-style bungalows offer a glimpse into the life of British tea estate managers. This luxurious retreat in the Golden Valley of Tea offers an unparalleled experience of Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage and natural splendour.
Begin your day in the serene Bogawantalawa Valley with a cup of tea, fresh from the plantations that surround you. Delve into the "Tea Experience," visiting the plantations to learn about the intricate process of tea-making, from handpicking to packaging. For the adventurous, mountain bike trails offer breathtaking views, with guides available for those who wish. Alternatively, kayak on the tranquil waters of Castlereagh and Maskeliya reservoirs, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Transition from the cool highlands to the tropical haven of Tangalle, a journey of three hours to Sri Lanka's southwestern coast. Settle into Geoffrey Bawa's masterpiece, the Last House, uniquely positioned between a lagoon and the sea. Your first day in Tangalle invites exploration of its expansive beaches and refreshing swims in the clear waters, introducing you to the coastal charm of this region.
Venture into the small fishing village of Rekawa, home to a vital Marine Turtle Conservation project. Here, you have the chance to witness endangered turtles and engage with the local community, gaining insights into their daily lives. Return to the comfort of the Last House in the evening, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Embrace an active day with options for whale watching, snorkeling, sailing, river trips, and sea kayaking, supporting local youth in the process. Visit the ancient Mulkirigala temple, perched atop a significant boulder, and marvel at inscriptions that trace back over two millennia. Your final evening at the Last House promises relaxation and reflection on your journey thus far.
Continue your journey to Bentota, stopping at Ruhuna University in Matara to admire Bawa's integration of architecture with the natural landscape. A visit to Galle Fort offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial history, followed by lunch at the Lighthouse Hotel, another Bawa design. Arrive in Bentota to experience Lunuganga, Bawa’s personal retreat, now a testament to his architectural genius and love for landscaping, offering a peaceful end to the day.
Conclude your Sri Lankan adventure with a flight to Colombo, staying at The Tintagel, a boutique hotel in a historically rich neighbourhood. Visit the Parliament Building, a Bawa creation set amidst a vast lake, and enjoy dinner at The Gallery, Bawa’s former office. This last evening offers a blend of architectural marvels and culinary delights, setting the stage for your departure.
After breakfast at The Tintagel, prepare for your departure, reflecting on the rich tapestry of experiences encountered throughout your journey. A transfer to the Colombo airport marks the end of your unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka, from its natural wonders and architectural landmarks to its cultural heritage and vibrant communities.
Inspired by Geoffrey Bawa's revolutionary approach to architecture, "Geoffrey Bawa's Legacy: An Architectural Journey Through Sri Lanka" is crafted to explore how Bawa harmonized Sri Lanka’s ancient and modern architecture with the island’s natural beauty.
This tour is a tribute to Bawa's genius in integrating the elements of nature into his designs, showcasing sites that span from the tranquil highlands to the vibrant coasts.
It's perfect for those passionate about architecture, nature, culture, and wildlife, offering unique insights into Sri Lanka's architectural evolution and natural splendour.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
