Bungalows, Walauwas join tourism drive

Harshini PERERA

The Nugawela Mansion (Walauwa) Kandy has been converted to a tourist motel.

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) invites owners of architectural bungalows, old walauwas (Manor houses) and picturesque land to join the Authority to provide more accommodation for tourists as an investment opportunity. A segment of tourists who visit Sri Lanka, like to keep their privacy rather than staying in stabilized accommodation such as a hotel, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Director General S Kalaiselvam told Daily News Business.

The SLTDA has received 215 inquiries for the request made by them to submit information on available accommodation units. "This small-scale accommodation unit development project received inquiries mainly from the Central and Southern provinces," Kalaiselvam said. "The owners of the bungalows, walauwas and picturesque land will be put in touch with potential investors or they can invest on their own. The approvals will be given by the SLTDA."

"At the initial stage, we expect to create accommodation in 100 bungalows and walauwas. They will be best in quality to serve guests while the security and hygienic facility is a must," he said.

The owners of bungalows and old walauwas can lease, sell or invest in the property.