Brief garden by Bevis Bawa, Bentota Overview

The beautiful Brief garden was designed by Bevis Bawa and is approximately 10 km from Bentota. The place where the garden is today was initially an estate which was originally a rubber plantation. The land stretches over two hectares and is one of the gorgeous tropical gardens inspired by the local traditions of Sri Lanka along with Italian and English landscapes.

The Brief garden has been open to the public since the year 1972, and access to the garden begins after ringing the morning bell. You can take a walk through the garden by yourself, or you may also opt-out for a guided tour. The advantage of the guided tour is that you will understand the depth of the architectural designs and the artefacts.

After revelling in the beauty of the garden, one can head over to the main house for some tea and biscuits with Dooland De Silva. De Silva was a close friend of Bevis Bawa and was working in the garden for almost 40 years. De Silva will give you a small tour of the house where one can see the eclectic range of artwork and sculptures. One can also witness the paintings and photographs which will help gain an insight into the life of Bevis Bawa.

Tips While Visiting Brief Garden

It is recommended to wear clean and light clothing to ensure complete comfort. We recommend wearing a pair of trainers as there may be sections of the garden which may tend to be quite muddy. Carry an umbrella with you to protect yourself from the scorching heat of the sun or even the rains.

The Brief Garden is open for children as well; however, a child below the age of five must be accompanied by an adult. It is also necessary to take care of them so that they avoid touching any antique sculptures in the garden of the house of Bevis Bawa.

About Bevis Bawa

Bevis Bawa was born on 26th April 1909 and breathed his last on 18th September 1992. His origin is of a Muslim and English parentage. Later on, Bevis Bawa became a sculptor, painter as well as a landscape gardener while working as a cartoonist and columnist on the side.

Bevis Bawa did not have any children and inheritance of the garden was passed on to Dooland de Silva (who was working there for almost 40 years).

How To Reach Brief garden by Bevis Bawa

The Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa is not more than twenty minutes from the Aluthgama town following the Mathugama road which will branch northwest to the village of the Dharga town. One is sure to enjoy the journey with the views of the breathtaking paddy fields and the cool breeze.

There is no means of public transport, so you will have to hire a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) or a private vehicle. The cost for a return trip should not exceed LKR 1000.