It is often said that small people do small things and big people accomplish grand feats. Yet, occasionally, we witness the extraordinary when someone seemingly ordinary achieves the extraordinary, capturing global attention. Sri Lanka recently saw such a moment when Thisara Hewawasam, a man of humble beginnings but boundless vision, embarked on a project that has now become the talk of the world.
Thisara Hewawasam, hailing from the historic town of Galle, has dared to dream big. While the world is used to hearing about prominent figures making global waves, Thisara is proof that a single individual with determination can make a mark. He is currently spearheading a monumental project—Sri Lanka’s first seven-star hotel, a feat that positions him as a trailblazer on the global stage.
A few days ago, Thisara invited journalists from Sri Lanka’s leading electronic and print media outlets to an exclusive event at the newly inaugurated Cinnamon Life Hotel in Colombo. Among those present were editors of major national newspapers and top officials from electronic media, all eager to uncover the newsworthy revelation.
To the astonishment of those gathered, Thisara announced his ambitious plan to build a seven-star hotel, making Sri Lanka the home of the eighth such luxury establishment in the world. Currently, there are only seven seven-star hotels globally, and Thisara’s project aims to join this exclusive league, heralding what could be considered the “eighth wonder” of the island nation.
A Location Like No Other
Thisara’s dream hotel is being built on a sprawling 27-acre site in Udispattuwa, near the Knuckles Mountain Range in Matale, Kandy. This location is no ordinary plot of land. It boasts the cleanest water and some of the purest air in the world. Additionally, the area is uniquely gifted with four distinct weather conditions within a single day:
- 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.: One type of weather.
- 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Another unique condition.
- 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.: A third weather pattern.
- 2 a.m. to 6 a.m.: A completely different climate.
These remarkable natural phenomena, combined with pristine water and air, make Udispattuwa an irresistible destination for global travelers, further adding to the allure of Thisara’s seven-star hotel project.
A Monumental Investment
Thisara has committed a staggering 10 billion rupees to this venture, with 7 billion already invested and 70% of the project completed. His meticulous planning and execution have kept the project on track, with the grand opening scheduled for next year.
This venture not only underscores Thisara Hewawasam’s audacious vision but also symbolizes Sri Lanka’s potential as a premier global tourist destination. By creating a luxury experience unparalleled in the region, Thisara is not merely building a hotel—he is setting the stage for a landmark achievement that will place Sri Lanka on the world tourism map.
As we await the opening of this magnificent seven-star hotel, one thing is certain: Thisara Hewawasam has shown us that big dreams don’t require big names—only a big heart and an unyielding resolve.
A Luxury Experience Beyond Imagination
Thisara Hewawasam’s vision for Sri Lanka’s first seven-star hotel isn’t aimed at the average tourist who stays in modest accommodations, enjoys street-side meals, or improvises with simple comforts. Instead, Thisara aims to attract the global elite—those who demand luxury, exclusivity, and unforgettable experiences.
His ambitious plan includes inviting some of India’s most renowned Bollywood celebrities, such as Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Shahid Kapoor, and Salman Khan, to experience Sri Lanka as a premier tourist destination. Furthermore, Thisara envisions hosting the Saudi king for the grand opening of the hotel, a move intended to attract affluent tourists from the Middle East. This shift in focus aims to position Sri Lanka as a hotspot for high-net-worth travelers from India, the Maldives, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.
The hotel’s target audience includes guests who are prepared to spend anywhere between $1,000 and $15,000 per night—far beyond the typical $50 to $100 budget of regular tourists.
Tailored Experiences for Every Guest
What sets Thisara’s project apart is its emphasis on personalization. Every guest will begin their stay by completing a detailed questionnaire comprising 40 questions. These questions delve into their dietary preferences, favorite colors, preferred scents, lifestyle habits, health conditions, and even the type of service they expect from staff.
Thisara is introducing a revolutionary concept to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry: nutritious food tailored to heal and rejuvenate. Drawing inspiration from history, he has revived a food recipe from the royal kitchen of King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Sri Lanka. The royal menu features an astonishing 274 dishes. The philosophy behind it was simple yet profound: meals were prepared daily based on the king’s mood and physical condition. For example, if the king suffered from phlegm, the royal chef would craft a meal designed to alleviate it. Thisara plans to replicate this approach, offering tourists a one-of-a-kind culinary experience that combines luxury with health benefits.
World-Class Transportation and Amenities
Thisara has left no stone unturned in ensuring the utmost convenience for his guests. Travelers arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport will have the option to reach the hotel by helicopter. For those who prefer road travel, Thisara has arranged transportation via luxurious limousines or Hummer jeeps. Recognizing the absence of such high-end vehicles in Sri Lanka, he has gone the extra mile by sourcing them from Dubai, showcasing his commitment to providing a world-class experience.
Overcoming Challenges
Thisara’s journey to realize his vision hasn’t been without obstacles. A previous attempt to develop a luxury tourism concept in Kalpitiya faced bureaucratic hurdles despite initial investor interest. He had envisioned transforming an island into a tourist paradise and even took potential investors on helicopter tours of the site. However, delays and a lack of authorization ultimately stalled the project.
Undeterred by past setbacks, Thisara has persisted with his bold ambitions. His unwavering determination and meticulous planning are poised to redefine luxury tourism in Sri Lanka, making the country a sought-after destination for the global elite.
Share Your Thoughts
If you have anything to say about this remarkable seven-star hotel project, you can reach out directly to Thisara Hewawasam by calling his mobile number: 0777 203 437.
Reported by Kapila
