Lunuganga was the country home of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s best-known architect. Over forty years he turned an abandoned rubber estate on the shore of Dedduwa Lake into 15 acres of terraces, lawns, pavilions and carefully framed views, often called one of the most enchanting gardens of the twentieth century. It is now a 10-room hotel run by Teardrop Hotels. Bawa’s art, sculpture and antiques are still in place, and an infinity pool looks out over the lake. The name means “salt river” in Sinhala.
The estate is about 115 km from Bandaranaike International Airport, roughly two hours by road. Colombo is about 90 km away and Galle about 65 km (90 minutes). Bentota railway station is 6 km (12 minutes) away. Book the Colombo (CMB) Airport transfer to Lunuganga.
The ten rooms are kept much as they were in Bawa’s lifetime, with a mix of antique and modern furniture and traditional and contemporary art. No two are alike:
The house speciality is Sri Lankan food: plain or egg hoppers, kiribath and fiery coconut sambol. These are served in an open-plan restaurant looking over the garden and lake, alongside international and Asian fusion dishes. Meals and sundowners can also be taken at Bawa’s favourite spots around the estate, including his G&T spot above the lake.
Guests get a complimentary walk through the gardens. The hotel also arranges boat rides on Dedduwa Lake, a cookery session with the chef, a guided southern art tour, a walk through Bevis Bawa’s Brief Garden nearby, and a guided tour of Galle Fort. The beaches, restaurants and water sports of Bentota are a 10-minute drive away, and the Bentota River runs close by.
The location, staff, and food were all excellent. It made me feel like I was in my own villa.
It’s just like in the Jungle.Mr.Bawa makes the architecture part of the nature.People work here is also nice.We enjoy the spectacular view and natural atmosphere here.A lot of animals live in the garden.Mr.Bawa create a sanctuary…
This place will not be for everyone as it really takes you into Bawa’s magical world and aesthetic and not into a six star modern niceties. The service is from another era and made you feel like you were at home, albeit an excell…
Ratings and reviews provided by TripAdvisor for Lunuganga by Teardrop Hotels.
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