Brief Garden, the former home of landscape architect Bevis Bawa, boasts a vast 5-acre garden and an impressive art collection, making it a popular stop for many visitors. While some may find the ticket price to be on the higher side, it is likely an attempt to maintain exclusivity and limit crowds. The garden itself is serene and calming but does not offer much in terms of sights or activities.
This is a masterpiece that was created by Mr. Bevis Bawa. Very calm environment and you can feel the nature while walking around the garden. Also there are world class art pieces inside the house. There is a guide who explains everything including history, arts and the story of Brief Garden. The entrance fee was 2000 LKR for local visitors. You will require more than 1.5hrs to visit the place. Little bit difficult to find the location and roads are narrow. But google maps will guide you to the location.
Ganidu Siriwardana — Google review
I would say this is more of an on the way visit location rather than a destination. It’s a beautiful garden an area about 5 acres. Ticket price is on high side, may be the owners want to make it exclusive and limit the visitors. But anyway it’s good if they can be little more polite on the visitors. About 1 km of the access road is narrow, It’s really difficult to cross two vehicles
Thilanga Jayarathna — Google review
This place is absolutely beautiful! It’s a little bit cluttered, but a part of its charm. Just look at the photos! Also, make sure to talk to local guide - guy speaks English very well (it was one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had here), he’s also a very pleasant man. He can tell lots of fascinating things about the place!
Absolutely worth visiting!
Julia Shcherbina — Google review
Well We have made a mistake in coming here. Nothing much there to see in the garden. Just a small garden. Spent 1500 for 3 guests to watch the garden. Thats way too much for a garden not maintained well.
We would have to spend 6000 if we have decided to watch the house, which we didnt. Thats the only positive thing out of this. Saving a potential waste of money by just opting only to watch the garden.
Sampath Karunarathne — Google review
The Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa, in my opinion, is nothing short of a mystical garden straight out of a fairytale. This green paradise is hidden away in the heart of Beruwala, far from the bustling city. Fair warning to those who plan to travel here in a large group, by bus, as the road leading to the brief garden away from the main-ish road cannot accommodate a bus. If so, walking is mostly the only option as there are not much tuks available there either. Tickets are issued at $10 per foreign visitor and at 500LKR for the garden and 2000LKR for the garden plus the home. The garden spans over several acres, and holds different types of landscape designs which are mesmerising. There are different types of statues all over the garden, which add a different level of beauty to the location. Bawa's house is definitely the highlight of the garden. While many tend to buy the ticket only for the garden, it's the house that holds entry the most architectural pieces of the location, such as the infamous Moon Door, the open bath house and the external bathroom with the blue door. All these hold breathtaking beauty and show the spectrum of Bawa's creativity. Inside the house, there is a whole lot more of Bawa's paintings and other creations, as well as a collection of books, statues and paintings he got hold of during his foreign travels. In addition to that, there are paintings and statues created by his friends who visited him over the years. It is safe to say that this mesmerizing location is definitely a must-visit, and will surely heal your heart, mind and soul.
Sewwandi Senevirathna — Google review
This is a beautiful garden. For the garden visit LKR 500 and to visit both garden + house it will cost LKR 2000. Calm environment. Nothing to watch much. Limited area. The road is bit difficult.
Yashika Gunasekara — Google review
Owners(head Gardner and his wife) are very rude, they didn't even let a 3 yr old sit on a chair after walking in the garden. There's nothing much to see inside the house despite of the 2000LKR ticket.only the living room and open bathroom are extra. No kitchen or bedrooms are included 😂. None of the water features are functional. But the garden is very well manicured. And worker who's issuing the tickets gave us a very good tour.
Oshan Rube — Google review
Beautiful landscape designed by Bevis Bawa, the brother of Jeffrey Bawa. The ticket for the garden entrance is LKR 500 while the house tour is additional LKR 2000. The staff is quite friendly. The garden consist of many levels and locations. Refer to the map at the entrance to better orient yourself in the garden.
Many statues of creative creatures, ponds, beautiful stairways and much more can be seen here. Suitable for couples, families or even to hangout alone.
Tharaka Siyambalapitiya — Google review
A breathtaking landscape it is !
The road to entrance is narrow and it's preferred use either private vehicle or a taxi for the drop. The ticket price for garden is Rs.500 while garden + house tour cost Rs.2000, which is on the high end.
Well maintained natural garden with a silent surrounding. The guide accompanying guests is an inspired individual.
A quality and informative experience.
Supun Wijenayake — Google review
Nestled obscurely it’s a testament to what a person can create with passion!
Had the lunch of the life amidst the greens inspiring peace and tranquility. Very kind owner and the guiding staff to create a memorable experience.
Sumeet — Google review
An ideal retreat created and carefully manicured over decades with artistic renditions and an envious collection of artefacts and paintings. Bevis Bawa reveals his artistic leanings along with his not too subtle phallic affections. The garden is well designed but now is gradually falling into a bit of a disarray. The attraction remains the house with numerous paintings and sculptures revealing the revelry of times past.
Deven The Sailor — Google review
10.12.2023
The entrance fee is 500 LKR per person. If you wish to visit the house, then the ticket price is LKR 2000/-. The access road to this place is somewhat good.
There is a 5-acre garden and one house to visit. As I heard, this place was designed by brother of the famous Jeffry Bawa. You can see many beautiful landscapes all over the garden. A good place to spend time leisurely.
It won't take much time to visit the whole garden. Other than the landscaping, there is nothing much to see. But you can enjoy the surroundings.
Jayasanka Udara — Google review
Brief garden is a architectural garden with a house designed by Jeffory Bhava. This is placed at a remote location. So people don't visit much. Have to buy ticket to enter. Please take a mosquito repellent when you visit.
Milinda Amarasinghe — Google review
The Brief Garden is located at Kalawila (a rural village) in Kalutara District. The house in the Gardern is used as the residence of Bevis Bawa, a sibling of Geoffrey Bawa.
You need to buy a ticket to watch Brief Garden and House of Bawa. Sri Lankans can visit Brief Garden only at a cost of Rs. 500.00 and House and Garden at a cost of Rs 2,000.00. A non-Sri Lankan has to pay 10$ (Rs 3,300.00 based on the current rate, you can pay in Sri Lankan Rupees).
We purchased Garden tickets only and visited the landscape but no guide to explain the importance of the garden. Even though it has been said the garden with 5-acercs, we did not have access to the whole area. The house was constructed on the top of a hill on elevated ground, and we were not allowed to go beyond elevated ground. Only the front and the roof of the house are visible.
There was a nice landscape on the front of the house to facilitate the stormwater to drain out. The sculptures and stairways were attractive, but dirt and fungus were on the surface of the sculptures. The walkways were arranged nicely but very poor maintenance was seen some gullies were filled up with soil. The garden was consistent with flowers and decorated plants. As we visited in December, we could not see any flowers in the garden. The Garden was dark and full of mosquitos. It may be because of its poor maintenance or by its nature. Please take a mosquito repellent when you visit.
Two non-Sri Lankans who visited with us went to the house area. They had a guild in the house visit. But seems like they are not happy about it. If you have a real interest in architects, there is a good place to visit. Otherwise, there are plenty of places to visit around.
Niranga Amarasingha — Google review
It's amazing.Just loved it. It's like a walk in paradise. I think it's a best landscaping garden I have ever seen.The garden is well planning and well maintained.So happy to see it.🏵️🌺🌵🍃🌳
Nadeesha Darshani — Google review
Thrilled with Brief Garden's enchanting landscape! Bevis Bawa's visionary touch is evident in the thoughtful use of natural trees, creating a harmonious blend with the surroundings. The commitment to preserving nature's beauty shines through, offering a unique and sustainable oasis. A must-visit for those who appreciate landscaping that celebrates the authenticity of Sri Lanka's lush environment.
Moragalla Beach is a serene expanse of sand located close to Bentota River, boasting a stunning coral reef and shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka and attracts numerous tourists who come to enjoy its pristine waters. The beach has an established duty point manned by Sri Lanka Navy/Sri Lanka Coast Guard life savers, ensuring safety for all visitors.
We went to the North part of the beach. If you like waves this is a great part to play. Two restaurants here are simple and a bit expensive than others but it is quiet and serene at night.
David Brooker — Google review
A very wide, long and clean beach. Good for beach camping. A photogenic beach
Arunan Pandiyan — Google review
Moragalla is a beach that is just a few kilometers south of the tourist domain of Beruwala. This wide stretch of sandy haven adjoins the estuary of the Bentota River, otherwise known as the Bentara River.
While the beach of Moragalla is not anything special, just a nice long stretch of pale yellow sands and reasonably clear blue water; but for some reason this slightly lesser known place does have a sort of tranquility to it. The sea around the Moragalla is quite shallow due to the underwater coral reef the lies not far from the coastline. As such it’s perfect for pursuits such as snorkeling, windsurfing, diving and etc.
The Bentara River on the southern end of the beach is also a place to be explored in detail. Lined with over 20 varieties of mangrove trees and several islands floating midstream, the river is an interesting avenue for boat trips.
As one nears the southern end of the strip of Moragalla beach, a land formation that appears to be an island starts becoming visible. However the truth is that this no island; but the hooked end of Bentota beach that forms a panhandle. This land formation can be reached quite quickly by rowing across using a boat; or by traveling the long way around along the coastline. On reaching this section of land, a flight of crude stairs built into a rocky mound becomes visible. Climbing these stairs through the dense jungle-like greenery, leads to a little temple where a little yoga ashram is located. Following a little footpath past the shrine leads to the edge of a cliff with a great view. This place is good for watching the beautiful sunsets of the tropics.
Moragalla is increasingly becoming commercialized these days. As such, it is the responsibility of all visitors to keep the beach clean and beautiful.
Diehard Traveller — Google review
Really beautiful and calming place. Had a great experience. Love it
Hiruni Subhashinie — Google review
Its a very wide beach, but not the cleanest.
There was too much vegetation in the water which felt weird. Considering the length and breadth very limited food options. Which get more limited if you are a vegetarian.
Some shacks/restaurants said they don't/can't cook vegetarian food. Some said their lounge chairs were reserved, which stayed empty over the next six hours. Maybe they only prefer Russian/Europe guests. Would be a good idea for them to state this expressly.
A K — Google review
I am actually a sea lover. I love travelling to different place to see the sea 😬 this is my favourite beach and the sea of all.. the place is amazing. Not dangerous at all. It’s more like a pool. A great place to relax and chill. You can enjoy the sunset and that’s an amazing view from down there. If you love beaches and the sunset, you gotta visit this place. I absolutely adore this place. I travel down there on mot of the weekends.. love it so much. There are restaurants and hotels around so don’t have to worry about food and drinks. People are so friendly and nice too. It’s pretty safe down there. One of the best places to snorkel and if you’re blessed enough you will see a turtle near the reef. And also there’s a huge eel down the reef too. You can actually swim to the reef and walk on that. You will see fishes of different types and so many little eels 😬 such a beautiful place
jaisy Abeygunawardana — Google review
Picturesque beach with calm and peaceful surroundings. Since the tourism is the main income of the people in these areas there are number of small businesses carry on along the beach. The sea is very shallow up to 30 to 50 meters, may be even more. Good place to have a bath and it is very joyful. Had a bad experience with the residents of this area somehow.
Tharindu Prasad — Google review
Moragalla beach is located just opposite the Bentota panhandle at the estuary of Bentota River. A picturesque and relatively secluded beach. Beautiful and Safe place to swim and enjoy. There lot of fishing boats in te beach on the evening.
Lakshitha Chirath — Google review
One of most beautiful beach in sri lanka. Many tourists came here and enjoyed. Can a sea bath. Sri Lanka Navy / Sri Lanka coast guard life savers and duty point established here. This is the nearest beach to Kande Wiharaya. Anyone can enjoy and get facilities of Boat trip. Many luxury hotels situated in there.
Dishan Chathuranga — Google review
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Kumudu Dananjaya — Google review
🏖 “There are so many beautiful places here, you can go to the resorts here and enjoy the freedom “
The Beruwala Lighthouse, also known as the Barberyn Lighthouse, is a historic maritime beacon located on picturesque Barberyn Island. Built in 1889, this colonial-era lighthouse has withstood the test of time, even surviving the Boxing Day Tsunami. Accessible by a short boat ride, visitors can admire its marvelous architecture and enjoy panoramic views of Beruwala and the Indian Ocean from the top.
The Beruwala Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that was built in 1922 by the British to guide ships in the Indian Ocean. The lighthouse is located on a rocky outcrop that juts out into the ocean, providing stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The tower is about 34 meters tall and has a spiral staircase leading to the top where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the coastline.
Lighthouse Island is a small island located off the coast of Beruwala that is accessible only by boat. The island is home to a small mosque and a Buddhist temple, both of which attract visitors from different communities. The island is also known for its beautiful sandy beach and clear blue waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Many visitors to Beruwala Lighthouse and Lighthouse Island have praised the stunning views from the top of the lighthouse and the tranquil atmosphere of the island. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, who capture the picturesque views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The island is also an ideal destination for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
However, some visitors have also noted that the lighthouse could benefit from some maintenance and restoration work, as it shows signs of wear and tear. Additionally, the boat ride to Lighthouse Island can be choppy and uncomfortable, particularly during the monsoon season.
Overall, Beruwala Lighthouse and Lighthouse Island are worthwhile destinations for those seeking natural beauty and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's history and culture. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing, bring sunscreen and insect repellent, and be prepared for a bumpy boat ride to the island.
Chanuka Denuwan — Google review
This lighthouse is built in the colonial era, the architecture of the lighthouse is marvelous. Calm place to enjoy the nature. Around 5 minutes boat ride from the land, it is also possible to camp ⛺️ and spent nights. Totally safe.
Saajidh Ifthikar — Google review
Beautiful place to spend your time. Can spend time with friends and family. You should travel by a boat they will take around 3000 for the ride.
pradeepan — Google review
Well this was my first time which I had a chance to climb up to to of the lighthouse. According to the Wiki, this is the third highest lighthouse in Sri Lanka which is 46 meters and only 1 meter difference to the Dondra Head lighthouse. Omg! Its so beautiful view as well as the feeling is so satisfied. You can see the whole island from its top. And all the equipment inside the lighthouse is look lil bit ancient with those days technology. That uncle who works here said us the purpose of a lighthouse, which is ; they use the lighthouse to mark the depth of the sea at the range of its light goes around. So the captains will be aware of it. And he said that this is still active lighthouse and they switch the light on around 6.30 pm in the evening.
Shanan Ilen — Google review
Beruwala Lighthouse is a lighthouse located on Barberyn Island. Three-quarters of this island are covered with coconut palms, Plumeria flowers, mango and cashew nuts, and buffalo shade. Exotic birds, reptiles and insects roam the island and you can an instant connection with nature.
A 10-minute boat ride from the town of Beruwala you can go to Barberyn island, a place no hustle and bustle of people, cars and traffic.
Dilshan Mahawaththa — Google review
This tiny island has only one lighthouse on it, the Beruwala light house.
A ten minute boat ride across choppy waves is the Beruwala Lighthouse, also known as the Barberyn Lighthouse because it's situated on Barberyn Island. It's pretty old, with its construction being completed in 1889. Interesting to note that it survived the Boxing Day Tsunami though, and is still fully functional.
You'll have to barter a price with the fishermen to ferry you to the island though. Prices start at Rs. 2500 for a roundtrip, but can range to around 3000 or more.
You can take a pick nick and even swim around, it's quite secluded. For children really lovely. You can also sleep there (although we would not recommend it). We got a possibility to go up the lighthouse. A 140 iron steep stairs will take you to the highest point. Amazing view!
ntonckens — Google review
This is a very beautiful place and the most calm place. It is a very beautiful place with tourist attractions full of coconut trees. I can reach the place only by boats. Boat facilities for traveling can be obtained from the landside boat stand. All of you who come can enjoy the beauty of this place. Take all the waste that comes in. Protect it because this is a very beautiful place
Umesh madushanka — Google review
Amazing place. Beautiful sea views. Boat ride is a mush to reach the lighthouse.
Vishma Sonali — Google review
Must visit just before Sunset or after Sunrise.
Contact local fishermen for booked boat rides and pay max 1500LKR only.
Climb up inside lighthouse to enjoy Panaromic view of the city and ocean.
I have enjoyed the scene of the harbor and beach from this mosque.
Kechimalai Mosque is located at the end of the port of Beruwala. The mosque is built at the spot where the ancestors of Sri Lanka’s Muslim community, landed in 1024 AD, and made it their most important & historic settlement in the island.
It is of ancient Arabic architecture, as it stands tall and white upon a rock, surrounded by swaying coconut palms. Viewed from the Galle Road, it looks picturesque. The history of “Ketchimalai” mosque, goes back generations, and with its myths and legends lay hidden also many tales. One of them is the civilization that was created around this mosque. In the 12th century, a vessel came ashore on the South West of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at Ketchimalai, Beruwala, with seven members of the royal family of Hadramouth, Yemen. Sultan Ashraff Waliullah, his five brothers and a sister.
Naashif Mohamed — Google review
A eye catching location in beruwala. Constructed in 1911. Which believed that the place is well known for the first place where Muslim traders landed with their siblings. The people inside the mosque are very friendly and talk with you very politely. There is a jogging track around the mosque where you can jog with the beautiful beach view
Wakeel mohammed — Google review
Kechimalai Mosque is a historical mosque located in Beruwala, a coastal town in Sri Lanka. It is also known as the Kechimalai Masjid or the Kechimalai Palli. The mosque is believed to have been built by Arab traders in the 8th century, making it one of the oldest mosques in the country.
According to local legends, the mosque was built on the spot where the first Muslim traders who came to Sri Lanka landed. The mosque has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, with the current structure being built in the 18th century.
The Kechimalai Mosque is an important religious site for Muslims in Sri Lanka and attracts visitors from all over the world. The mosque has a unique architectural style, with a mixture of Arab, Indian, and local influences. The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations, while the exterior features a towering minaret and a large courtyard.
The mosque is also significant for its role in the history of Islam in Sri Lanka. It has served as a center of Islamic learning and culture for centuries and has played a key role in the spread of Islam throughout the island. Today, the Kechimalai Mosque is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Sri Lanka.
Faizal Hassan — Google review
Very Beautiful place It is surrounded by sea
Ubaidh Naseem — Google review
I stopped by the Kechimalae Mosque (located at the end of the port of Beruwala) to perform the Asr prayer. The mosque is built at the spot where the ancestors of Sri Lanka’s Muslim community landed in 1024 AD. May Allah (SWT) grant them Jannah. Since the Masjid is located at the top, I enjoyed the surrounding view of Beruwala from there.
Afsan Hasan Khan — Google review
Kachimalai Mosque is said to be the oldest Islamic mosque in Sri Lanka. According to the Moors at Beruwala, Kachimalai Mosque commemorates the location of the arrival of Moors in the eleventh century. A ancient history of Islamic culture.
A good place for a family visit, to enjoy the sea and fishing dock. You will be also seeing crow island on the beach.
Don't forget to support a small fruit vendors on the street.and Dress modesty and respect the religious places during your visit.
Azeem Rafeek — Google review
Good place
Nice place to relax and peaceful place⛱️😌
MAFIA — Google review
the mosque is built at the spot where the first Muslim Arab traders landed and subsequently settled in the area. It is believed that a vessel carrying seven members of the royal family of Hadhramaut, Yemen came ashore at this location. They included the Sultan Ashraff Waliullah, his five brothers and a sister. When Waliullah died in 1024 AD he was buried in a tomb on the hill. Allegedly one day, when the chief of the Masjid Al-Abrar in Beruwala was cleaning the tomb he stepped on a sharp thorn following which he rest under a tree and fell asleep. During his slumber, Waliullah appeared as a vision and sought that a mosque be built where his tomb was .
At that time the site was known as “Utchchamalai” in Tamil, which translates to “high hill”, over time this was modified to its current name of Ketchchimalai.
The current building was constructed in 1911 by a wealthy Muslim businessman. It is essentially a squarish white building, with an ornate arched exterior, curving dutch-style gables, with an unusual domed minaret crowned with a crescent-and-star ornament. Outside the mosque but within its grounds are the graves of two imams (father and son) and a madrasa.
The mosque is the focus for a major Eid al-Fitr festival held at the end of Ramadan, with large numbers of pilgrims attending.
On 12 June 2015 the mosque was declared a protected archaeological site by the government.
haji shahul hameed sahib — Google review
A place with historical value. Places in a nice location with the sea from three sides. The beach is nice but a little polluted. Bathing is not advisible.
Ziyasa Johardeen — Google review
Very popular place for Sri Lankan Muslims, This is a very old Masjid built by Arab merchants. Picturesque location very close to Beruwala fishing harbor.
Masjid Al Abrar-Garand Mosque in Beruwala is a significant historical site and the first mosque built in Sri Lanka. It showcases traditional Islamic architecture and holds a unique charm with its peaceful location near the beach. The mosque has a rich history dating back over 1000 years, as it was constructed by Arab traders.
Old history Mosque in Srilanka
Large and beautiful historic with bright 🌞 spirit ✨️
Ahmad Alharbi — Google review
The first mosque in Sri Lanka. It is built in traditional Islamic architecture with a peaceful location close to the beach and a unique beautiful appearance.
Noori bin Gazzaly — Google review
1st Mosque in Sri Lanka MashAllah, very peaceful place. with 1100 years Historical place.
ahsan firoz — Google review
1000 year old and the first mosque of Sri Lanka built by Arab trader's but it's maintenance is very poor .it's must care both sides community and government
Amzul Imran — Google review
This is a very first masjid builded in srilanka. Mimber is only symbol of early stage of this masjid. Rest of other parts have changed. Infront of majid has a small pond. It is good example of muslim architectral for be cool ventilation inside of masjid.
Mohamed Alsan — Google review
Tomorrow is good for me 😁🙂 I was thinking 🤔🤔 and then we yes my work has gone up y
Farhath Rock — Google review
Sri Lankas first mosque, with a beautiful front view facing with a massive pond
Ahmadh Ashik — Google review
First and the oldest mosque in Sri Lanka. History of Muslims in the island nation rooted to here .
Finest gems and excellent service. I highly recommend there approach to customers by enhancing the knowledge of customer regarding varieties of Gems and mining processes.