Highlights
- The garden home of Bevis Bawa, brother of Geoffrey Bawa
- Ponds, fountains and sculptures fill the grounds
- A peaceful garden well worth a slow walk
Overview
Brief Garden was the home and garden of Bevis Bawa (1909 to 1992), the elder brother of the architect Geoffrey Bawa. It lies about 8 km inland from Bentota and Beruwala, in Kalawila village. Bevis turned a former rubber estate into a tropical landscape garden, drawing on local traditions as well as Italian and English garden styles.
The name
The garden is named after the legal "brief" that is said to have paid for the land: Bevis's father, a lawyer, bought it with the fee from a successful case.
What you see
Paths wind through terraces, lawns, ponds and shady groves, with views over the countryside. Sculptures, statues, benches and fountains are placed around the garden, many reflecting Bevis's humour and taste. The bungalow is full of art and photographs, including work by friends of Bevis such as the Australian artist Donald Friend, whose murals decorate parts of the house.
Hours and entry (2026)
The garden is open daily from 8am, with last entry at 4pm. As of 2026, foreign visitors pay US$15, payable in rupees at the gate, and the price includes a guided bungalow tour of about 20 minutes. Children under 5 enter free.
How long it takes
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
When to go
Morning is cooler. The west coast is driest from about November to April.
Getting there
Brief Garden is about 20 to 30 minutes by road from Bentota or Beruwala. Roads are narrow; a driver or tuk-tuk is easiest.
Practical tips
- Bring insect repellent.
- Combine it with Lunuganga, Geoffrey Bawa's garden nearby.
Visit Lunuganga the same day, then relax at Beruwala beach. See things to do in Beruwala and Beruwala hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.