Highlights
- Geoffrey Bawa's country home and his long running garden project
- Rooms and gardens keep the feel of the mid 20th century
- Closed until 25 October 2026, so check before you visit
Overview
Lunuganga was the country estate of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's most famous architect. He bought the former rubber and cinnamon plantation on the Dedduwa lake near Bentota in 1948 and spent the next five decades shaping it into a garden of views, terraces and pavilions. It was his laboratory for ideas about landscape and buildings. After his death in 2003 it became a small hotel run by a trust, and its garden is open to visitors on guided tours.
What you see
The garden is a series of carefully composed views: lawns running down to the lake, a hill cut away to frame a distant temple, avenues of trees, steps and water features. Pavilions, sculptures and garden rooms are placed along the way. The main house and restaurant are reserved for hotel guests and not part of the tour.
Tours and fees (2026)
Public garden tours run daily at 11am, 2pm and 3pm, and last about 90 minutes. As of October 2026, the foreign rate is US$20 per person, with lower local rates; children under 7 enter free. The garden is open to the public only on these tours. Private and curatorial tours can be booked in advance at higher rates.
How long it takes
About 90 minutes, plus time at the garden cafe.
When to go
The 3pm tour has softer light. The west coast is driest from about November to April.
Getting there
Lunuganga is on Dedduwa lake, about 15 to 20 minutes inland from Bentota.
Practical tips
- Arrive on time; late arrivals cannot join mid-tour.
- Wear good shoes; paths have steps and can be slippery.
- No flash or tripods.
Visit Brief Garden, made by Bawa's brother, the same day. See Bentota beach, things to do in Bentota and Bentota hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.