Brief Garden, Sri Lanka: Where Art and Jungle Embrace

Have you ever dreamed of getting lost in a secret garden, amidst shady paths, mysterious statues, and corners brimming with poetry? In the verdant heart of Sri Lanka, not far from the Bentota coast, lies a place that seems straight out of an adventure novel: Brief Garden. And believe me, it’s no ordinary garden.

A Slice of Paradise Crafted by Bevis Bawa

Brief Garden is the masterpiece of Bevis Bawa, an artist and landscape designer, and the elder brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. In the 1920s, Bevis inherited a rubber plantation, but instead of cultivating it, he decided to transform it into a garden of wonders. He worked on it for decades, meticulously crafting every detail with love and imagination.

The result? A two-hectare oasis where nature dances with art, in a perfect balance of order and wild magic.

A Sensory Journey Through Greenery, Art, and Silence

As soon as you step through the gates of Brief Garden, you’re greeted by tropical plants, brightly colored flowers, arches of climbing vines, and winding pathways. But the true charm lies in the hidden details: enigmatic statues, moss-covered fountains, stone benches nestled among the ferns, and perfect viewpoints for a moment of peace… or a dreamlike photo.

Every corner is designed to surprise and enchant. It’s as if the garden wants to tell you a story – but only if you walk slowly enough to listen.

A House Museum of Flair and Intimacy

Within the garden stands Bevis Bawa’s house, partially open to visitors. Here, among rooms with a decadent charm and walls adorned with murals and vintage photographs, you can almost feel the artist’s presence. It’s a place that speaks of a bygone era, yet remains alive and vibrant in the details.

Original artworks, vintage furniture, exotic objects collected during travels… the house is a fascinating visual collage.

How to Get There and When to Go

Brief Garden is located about 10 km from Bentota, and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or private car.

Opening hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. I recommend arriving in the morning, when the sun is softer and the garden is still immersed in dew.

There is an entrance fee, but every penny goes towards maintaining this little paradise.

Minimum visit time: At least two hours. But you could easily lose yourself for half a day without realizing it.

Why Visit?

If you love botanical gardens, art, unusual places off the beaten tourist track, Brief Garden is a must-see. It’s the perfect place for those who need to unwind, breathe in beauty, and be inspired by a world that blends creative genius and unspoiled nature.