Chaaya Wild Yala opens for business

Chaaya Wild Yala officially opened its doors last Tuesday. The resort which underwent a complete refurbishment and re-branding imprints its signature bordering Yala National Park.

The resort’s offerings stem from responsible tourism practices aimed at conserving and being one with its precious environs.

With over Rs 400 million investment the 66-chalet world class game lodge is placed in what is almost an extension of the Yala National Park with open boundaries to the surrounding wildlife.

The resort was opened by Yala Village Chairman Abeypala Perera in the presence of the CEO, and Sector Head of Sri Lankan Resorts, Jayantissa Kehelpannala, Chaaya Wild Yala General Manager Teddy Roland and Chamika Alwis representing MICD Associates and other distinguished guests.

The Sri Lankan flag and the hotel flag were hoisted in the presence of the staff members; prior to the religious ceremony which took place at the lobby area of the resort.

Located bordering a sanctuary which boasts of the highest density of leopard in Sri Lanka, and home to innumerable wildlife; the resort was named as a tribute to its surroundings.

Designed to bring out the locality and all that is endemic to Yala , the resort architecture bears a resemblance to the name ‘Wild’ and will be of a class that will please even the most widely-traversed wildlife buff. The hotel was designed to represent rustic luxury, resembling game lodges found in Africa by famed architect Channa Daswatte.

The architectural features of the 4-star accommodation in the deep South that would transform and transcend a guests’ expectations. Interiors give a camp look and feel, large trunk boxes, old vintage furniture, director’s chairs and indigenous artwork.

Chaaya Wild Yala is dedicated to promoting the wild, rather than focussing on a hotel experience; Nature Trails the in-house naturalist arm of John Keells Hotels has devised a series of excursions and activities to keep guests of all ages occupied.