Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, with a rich history dating back to the time of King Vijaya, has seen many foreign visitors grace its shores, from Indian travellers to Portuguese, Dutch, and English settlers.
Despite this historical allure, however, the nation has attracted budget-conscious backpackers rather than affluent tourists. According to Chairman and Founder of the Aviyana Private Chalet Complex, Dr. Indika Thisara Hewawasam, Sri Lanka has untapped potential to cater to high-end travelers seeking luxury, privacy, and an unparalleled experience.
In a recent interview, Dr. Hewawasam outlinedhis vision to elevate Sri Lanka’s tourism industry by offering an exclusive destination that merges the island’s natural beauty with world-class luxury.
Located atop the breathtaking hills of Kandy, nestled near the UNESCO-recognized Knuckles Mountain range, Aviyana is a sanctuary of luxury. Surrounded by lush greenery, pristine forests, and cascading waterfalls, the complex offers visitors a unique blend of Sri Lanka’s natural splendour and high-end comfort.
Dr. Hewawasam said, “Aviyana is not just a hotel; it is a reflection of the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s heritage and nature. We’ve harnessed the pure waters of the Knuckles Range, the crisp mountain air, and the healing properties of over 1,200 naturally grown medicinal trees. It’s a destination where every element has been carefully curated to offer a rejuvenating experience.”
Hailing from Elpitiya in Galle, Dr. Hewawasam’s journey to founding Sri Lanka’s first seven-star hotel is deeply personal. He started his career as a planter, exporting spices such as pepper and dragon fruit, and his love for the natural beauty of Udispattuwa inspired him to share it with the world.
After a decade of meticulous planning and preparation, Aviyana is now a testament to his vision—a destination that celebrates the remarkable achievements of Sri Lanka’s legendary kings such as King Ravana and King Parakramabahu.
“I’ve poured my heart and soul into this project,” said Dr. Hewawasam. “Every inch of this land has been explored and prepared to be the canvas for a grand vision that showcases Sri Lanka’s potential as a luxury destination.”
While most Sri Lankan hoteliers are content with catering to budget travellers, Dr. Hewawasam is aiming higher. His concept of a “seventh star” experience is designed to attract VIPs and affluent travelers who seek privacy, exclusivity, and world-class amenities.
“Sri Lanka is known for its rich heritage and natural beauty, but we haven’t fully tapped into the luxury market. Aviyana offers an experience that rivals the most opulent hotels in the world, but with a unique Sri Lankan identity. Most global hotels might have grandeur, but they don’t have our natural beauty. Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of nature and luxury,” he added.
Aviyana is strategically positioned in one of the most picturesque locations in Sri Lanka, offering panoramic views of Pidurutalagala, Hantana, Nelligala, and Nuwara Eliya. The complex promises total privacy, a feature highly sought after by today’s luxury travelers. “Most tourists need their privacy. You work 365 days a year, but you come here to unwind for a few days. There’s no better place for that,” Dr. Hewawasam remarks.
The wellness aspect is another critical element of the Aviyana experience. The Knuckles Range, rich in biodiversity and known for its healing properties, provides an ideal setting for those seeking mental and physical rejuvenation. With clean air, virgin water, and a focus on traditional indigenous medicine, Aviyana presents itself as a destination for holistic wellness retreats.
Aviyana’s appeal extends beyond just tourism—it offers a unique investment opportunity. Investors can purchase individual chalets, gaining full ownership rights with freehold title deeds. Unlike traditional real estate investments, Aviyana takes care of all the management and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience for owners.
Dr. Hewawasam is particularly proud of the transparency and high return on investment (ROI) Aviyana offers. “Investors are guaranteed one of the highest ROIs in the market, with earnings in either USD or LKR. We’ve created a model where investors don’t need to worry about tenants or maintenance—everything is handled by our dedicated team.”
Moreover, investors benefit from a monthly dividend payout and a complimentary four-day stay at the property each month, further enhancing the value of their investment.
Dr. Hewawasam envisions expanding the Aviyana concept to other iconic locations in Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura, Loggal Oya, Victoria, and Weligama. These future projects will mirror the success of Aviyana and continue to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in the global luxury tourism market.
“Aviyana is just the beginning,” Dr. Hewawasam concludes. “We have the potential to make Sri Lanka a top destination for luxury travellers. Through Aviyana, we are not only creating a premier tourism experience but also offering a lucrative investment opportunity that benefits our country’s economy.”
Sri Lanka Travel Feneteko