Plus

“A village in which life is just as idyllic as a picture post card.” Chaaya Village, Habarana, promises this and more at one of John Keells’ oldest hotels, formerly called The Village, Habarana. As its name implies, Chaaya (a Sanskrit term meaning shadow or image) will mirror its tranquil surroundings.

“We share a close relationship with the people and the land, while being completely committed to the preservation of both,” say the hoteliers of Chaaya Village, where the chief residents they insist are the birds and animals that have an equal stake in the vast lake or other natural habitats.

At the launch of the new brand, Deputy Chairman of the John Keells Group (JKG), Ajit Gunewardena spoke of their branding strategy and their current portfolio of brands – the Cinnamon and Chaaya, through which they hope to create added value. “Each of them are unique and will offer clients something different,” he said.

Facilities at the hotel include 108 village-style dwellings on acres of garden with two suites, 12 deluxe and 94 superior rooms with various recreational facilities, including the infinity swimming pool, tennis and badminton courts, chess hut, jogging track, jungle gym and the Ayurvedha Health Centre.

Drawing attention to the Chaaya experience, Executive Vice President and CEO, JKG, Jayantissa Kehelpannala said that a range of options will be presented to the traveller. “Through the new look, new flavour and new lease of life that Chaaya Village received, we will offer a new journey into our culture, history, while being in harmony with nature.”

Over Rs. 250 million has been spent on the refurbishment of the hotel that presents a modern, yet rustic setting. Situated in close proximity to the epicentre of historic interests, it hopes to showcase both natural and archaeological wonders. That most of these sites are within half a day’s reach is an added advantage.

To cater to varied interests, the hotel offers several ‘experience packages’. Nature lovers can enjoy the ‘In One With Nature’ package that features nature excursions to include elephant safaris, bird watching, jeep safaris, biking, trekking and kayaking. A fair insight into the livelihood of people in the area, their cuisine and culture can be gathered through the ‘Fish-er-way’ or the ‘Native Cues’ package. As for the energetic, they have the option of jungle treks or exploring the centuries old caves. Exploring an ancient king’s hideaway or ruins of monasteries is bound to satisfy the historically inclined.

Fielding questions from the press, Mr. Gunawardena stated that the local market, which would comprise approximately 30-40%, was very important to them in the marketing of the diverse range of experiences. The pre-paid packages can be a journey of discovery for Lankans too, providing a much needed respite from the stress of everyday life.

JKH, Sri Lanka’s largest hotel operator, currently runs two city hotels and eleven resort hotels in Sri Lanka and Maldives. “It is our vision not just to be the largest hotel operator, but also a significant player in the region,” Mr. Gunawardena said, adding that the sub continent had great potential. At a presentation in Berlin recently, their brand concept was well received, he added.

The evening also saw the launching of the Chaaya Hotels website: www.chaayahotels.com. Other hotels soon to be launched under the Chaaya brand will be the Hakuraa Club in the Maldives, The Citadel, Kandy and Yala Village. The company, as part of its multi-brand strategy, earlier launched Cinnamon Grand in Colombo under the new Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts brand.