Transforming Ecotourism in Sri Lanka: The Vision Behind Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts
In a noteworthy expansion of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, the Sabaragamuwa Province is about to witness a transformative ecotourism initiative: the Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts. Spearheaded by an ambitious investment of USD 40 million, this project promises to reconfigure the tourism landscape in the region, bringing luxury and sustainability together in a harmonious blend.
The Innovators Behind the Project
The brains behind this groundbreaking venture are Mrs. Elisabeth Berg Khan, an accomplished economist with a strong inclination towards green innovation, and Dr. Sikander Khan, a distinguished professor and CEO of Peak Education Ltd. based in Stockholm, Sweden. They have joined forces with Hewage Upananda Karunaratne, the head of UDS Agro Holdings, creating a formidable alliance founded on shared values and a vision to redefine hospitality through ecotourism. Their collaborative spirit underlines a commitment to responsible tourism that can offer both luxurious experiences and significant local benefits.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts will be a hallmark of sustainability, harnessing the power of renewable energy. The resort is designed to operate entirely on 1 MW agrivoltaic solar energy systems, ensuring that it contributes not to pollution but rather to a cleaner environment. Innovative designs such as energy-producing facades and building-integrated photovoltaics will play a pivotal role in creating a fossil fuel-free atmosphere. Features like enhanced insulation and energy-efficient windows further establish the resort as a model for green tourism.
Empowering Local Communities
Major General Nimal Krishnaratne (Rtd), who serves as the Project Coordinator, emphasizes the broader impact of this initiative on the local community. With an outlook that transcends traditional tourism, the project aims to create approximately 120 direct job opportunities. Importantly, it also includes training sessions for local youth, equipping them with marketable skills that can lead to sustainable employment. The project seeks not only to uplift individual lives but to enhance the overall economic landscape of Bulathkohupitiya.
Social Responsibility and Community Involvement
The investment in Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts predominantly stems from foreign direct investment (FDI), with 99% of the funding sourced internationally. This initiative doesn’t just stop at creating jobs; it has an extensive plan for community development. A portion of the projected profits will be channeled into local initiatives focusing on healthcare, housing, and the environmental protection of the rich flora and fauna native to the region. By aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the project epitomizes a commitment to fostering inclusive growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
Designing a Luxury Destination
Situated on eight scenic acres, Thimbiriya Skyline is poised as a luxurious 100-room, five-star resort. Of these eight acres, five will be dedicated to hotel facilities, while an adjoining three acres will feature a solar farm to bolster the resort’s energy capabilities. This thoughtful planning highlights the intention to weave sustainability seamlessly into a luxurious guest experience, making guests feel connected to the pristine environment around them.
Setting a New Precedent for Tourism
As Major General Krishnaratne articulates, the Thimbiriya project stands as a beacon of how sustainable tourism should be developed. Once operational, it is expected to be the first five-star hotel in the Sabaragamuwa Province, setting a global benchmark for ecotourism standards. With preliminary approvals already granted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), the project is not just a triumph for its stakeholders but a milestone for the local economy and Sri Lanka’s tourism aspirations.
A Vision for Future Endeavors
With its multifaceted approach combining luxury, sustainability, and community benefit, Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts embraces a philosophy that resonates with the growing demand for responsible travel. The ambition behind this project reflects a unique synergy between sustainable development and tourism, a model that is projected to create long-lasting benefits for both the local environment and communities.
As preparations proceed, there is an undeniable sense of anticipation surrounding Thimbiriya Skyline Resorts. It embodies the potential for transformational growth within not just Sri Lanka, but for ecotourism on a global scale. The project encapsulates a vision of tourism that respects the planet while offering unforgettable experiences for visitors.