Laugfs Leisure Ltd, a subsidiary of diversified conglomerate Laugfs Holdings confirmed that it would commence operations of the $32 million luxury hotel in Pasikudah in March.

Although the new resort was expected to commence operations during the later part of 2015, it was postponed due to adverse weather conditions which necessitated the extension of the final stage construction.

An artist’s impression of Anantaya Pasikudah

“Completion of the $32 million Anantaya Pasikudah will be a part of concerted push by Laugfs into Sri Lanka’s tourism industry,” Laugfs Group Chairman W.K.H.Wegapitiya told the Daily FT.

The ‘Anantaya’ Pasikudah property will consists of 100 rooms and 5 luxury chalets. The firm has now completed the first phase with 50 rooms and 5 chalets to be operational from March this year.

Laugfs Leisure Ltd, Director Srilal Miththapala said the completion of the project would set the benchmark high becoming the most luxurious property in Pasikudah.

Lobby Lounge

“The company has a proven track record of taking risk and delivering results. We will introduce the luxury chalet concept to the Sri Lanka’s tourism industry,” he said.

Considering the accessibility factor of the property, Laugfs is to create a new market segment for long staying travellers in the chalets by providing a home away from home atmosphere.

However Miththapala pointed that accessibility to hotels in Pasikuda still remains a challenge and added that regular flights at affordable prices are essential to make these new destinations more viable for tourism activities.

“Although there are charter flights, many travellers find it expensive. We need regular and affordable flights to boost tourism,” he added.

Despite not being able to provide a specific timeframe for the completion of the second phase of the Pasikudah project Miththapala however said that the company is all geared for it.

Elaborating further on Laugfs Leisure investments he asserted that 225-room Waskaduwa hotel project with an investment of over Rs.4 billion will be kicked off soon as well. “We just slowed down from the initial plan as we want to get a clearer picture of the Government’s policy direction,” he added.