Footsteps of Geoffrey Bawa Tour

Step into the world of Geoffrey Bawa with a tour that celebrates the architectural and natural masterpieces of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect. Begin with a warm welcome and a stay at a stunning Bawa-designed hotel, where you can admire its unique design and beautiful surroundings. Continue your journey to iconic sites that showcase Bawa’s influence, from cultural landmarks to breathtaking natural settings. Along the way, enjoy village visits, historical sites, and wildlife safaris, all while seeing how architecture and landscape come together in perfect harmony. This tour is a wonderful way to explore Geoffrey Bawa’s lasting legacy and experience the beauty of Sri Lanka through his eyes.

Tour Duration

Tour Information

Explore the stunning contemporary architecture of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa on this inspiring tour. Visit some of his finest creations, from elegant hotels to peaceful retreats both in the city and beyond, and experience firsthand the beauty and harmony of his designs.

Who is it for?

This tour is a fantastic educational journey for anyone passionate about architecture. From world-renowned architects to junior architecture students, people of all levels have enjoyed different versions of this tour. We can also create custom tours for university groups or other interested visitors, making it a truly personalized and inspiring experience.

map of Footsteps of Geoffrey Bawa tour package from magical isle holidays, a travel agency based in new south wales australia with hassle free booking

Day 1 - Kandalama

Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted at the airport by our experienced driver/guide. You’ll then embark on a scenic transfer to the iconic Heritance Kandalama Hotel in Dambulla. This hotel is not just a place to stay but an architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Begin your day with a village tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rural lifestyle of Sri Lanka. This experience offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of local villagers, showcasing their traditional practices and age-old customs. Join a tour to Sigiriya, the 5th-century Rock Fortress that stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Also known as the Lion Rock, Sigiriya was once the royal citadel of King Kashyapa.

Begin your day with a journey to Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. You’ll walk among the well-preserved ruins of a once-thriving kingdom. Highlights include the Royal Palace complex and the iconic Gal Vihara. adventure with a visit to Minneriya National Park, renowned for its incredible wildlife, particularly its large herds of elephants. The park’s central feature, the Minneriya Tank, a massive ancient reservoir, attracts hundreds of elephants during the dry season.

Begin your journey in Dambulla. The centerpiece of Dambulla is the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This magnificent complex is the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. 

Join a tour to Kandy. Nestled in the lush central highlands, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, making it a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world.

Visit Hatton, Nuwara Eliya, and Haputale with a scenic train ride connecting these destinations is often hailed as one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in the world, winding through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

Explore Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country with visits to Hatton, Nuwara Eliya, and Haputale. Begin in Hatton, surrounded by lush tea plantations. Continue to Nuwara Eliya, where you can enjoy colonial charm, scenic gardens, and cool climates. Reach Haputale, perched on the highlands, offering breathtaking views and hikes to Lipton’s Seat.

After a scenic flight offering a breathtaking aerial perspective, you’ll arrive in Yala, home to one of the most famous national parks in the country, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore a unique ecosystem that boasts one of the highest densities of leopards in the world.

Join a safari adventure in Yala National Park. Known for its diverse landscapes ranging from grasslands to dense jungles, Yala offers a unique opportunity to witness a wide array of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Weligama, renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and traditional stilt fishing, offers a relaxing escape where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. Thalpe, just a short distance away, is celebrated for its picturesque beaches and luxurious resorts.

As you stroll along the shoreline in Weligama, you’ll witness local fishermen balancing on stilts in the shallow waters, a unique and picturesque sight. In Thalpe, unwind on golden sands or explore the nearby tranquil bays, perfect for a peaceful swim or a scenic walk.

Thalpe’s coastline is dotted with quaint cafes and boutique hotels, providing a charming backdrop to your coastal retreat. Both Weligama and Thalpe offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making them ideal spots for a leisurely exploration of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

Transfer to airport.