Sri Lanka

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly greeted and assisted by our driver/guide. You will then be transferred to Villa Hundira, located in Thalahena, Negombo. If time allows, you can immerse yourself in the Thimble Experience at the villa, offering a unique introduction to the local culture and environment.

Begin your day with a journey to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its impressive ruins and majestic stupas, with structures dating back to the 3rd century BC. After exploring this historical treasure, continue your travels to Dambulla for the night.

In the morning, embark on a visit to Sigiriya, the 5th-century Rock Fortress often regarded as the 8th wonder of the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and remarkable ancient frescoes. Following your exploration of Sigiriya, proceed to Polonnaruwa, the second historical capital of Sri Lanka. Here, you will discover ancient ruins that highlight the medieval architecture of the 10th century AD.

Transfer to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last kingdom before British colonization. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the temple, the former royal palace, the council chamber, and other historical buildings dating back to the 15th century, all preserved in their original form.

Travel to Nuwara Eliya, known as ‘Little England’ for its colonial ambiance. Situated about 2000 meters above sea level, this city was a favorite retreat for the British during the colonial era. Stroll through the city to admire colonial mansions, some over 150 years old, now serving as charming hotels that exemplify British architectural style.

In the morning, visit the Chapel of the Good Shepherd’s Convent in Bandarawela, designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa in collaboration with Mr. Ulrik Plesner. Afterward, transfer to Tangalle to explore The Last House, Geoffrey Bawa’s final architectural masterpiece.

On your way to Galle, make a stop to admire the Ruhuna University Campus and office building in Matara, also designed by Geoffrey Bawa (subject to permission). Upon reaching Galle, delve into the history of the Dutch Fort, a significant 18th-century fortress that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, visit Lunuganga, Geoffrey Bawa’s country estate and lifelong project, where you will enjoy a guided tour of this captivating property. In the afternoon, visit Brief Gardens, the private estate of Geoffrey Bawa’s brother, Bevis Bawa, a celebrated landscape architect whose gardens are renowned for their beauty.

Transfer to Colombo, with en-route visits to several Bawa-designed hotels along the coast, including Heritance Ahungalla, Club Villa, and Blue Water, showcasing the architect’s distinctive style.

In Colombo, explore key landmarks designed by Geoffrey Bawa, including the Parliament Building (subject to permission), the Gangarama Temple, and Bawa’s own town house, No. 11 (subject to permission). In the afternoon, take a specialist-guided tour of the Colombo Fort area to understand its historical evolution. Enjoy dinner at Gallery Café by Paradise Road, which was Geoffrey Bawa’s former office.

On your final day, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, concluding a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s architectural heritage.