Waraka Udawalawe – Thema Collection’s eco-luxury retreat opens

Thema Collection proudly announced the grand unveiling of its newest addition, ‘Waraka,’ an eco-luxury boutique hotel nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of Udawalawe. The hotel opened its doors to the public on 1 June, with the opening ceremony graced by the esteemed presence of Embassy of Japan Chargé d’ Affaires a.i. Katsuki Kotaro.

Waraka is located just 20 minutes away from Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its captivating wildlife and majestic elephants. Inspired by the flamboyant jackfruit tree, Waraka promises an unforgettable escape enveloped in nature’s embrace. This intimate 12-room eco-friendly retreat boasts a range of amenities, including a restaurant offering delectable international and local cuisine, and an Ayurveda spa, where guests can relax and unwind in contemporary comforts amidst breath-taking scenery.

Thema Collection, with its ideology to provide an authentic Sri Lankan experience to its guests, offers a variety of experiences ranging from guided elephant safaris to village tours and canoeing adventures. These are all carefully crafted to provide personalised insights into the region’s rich biodiversity, intricate irrigation systems, and vibrant agricultural environment. Moreover, with a commitment to sustainable development, Waraka focuses on empowering local communities, conserving biodiversity, promoting energy conservation through renewable sources, and engaging in community development initiatives.

Waraka also extends its support to ‘Eth Athuru Sevana,’ Asia’s first Elephant Transit Home. Established in 1995 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, this initiative focuses on rescuing and nurturing elephants orphaned mainly due to human-elephant conflicts and release them back into their natural habitat. There are about 60 orphaned baby elephants at this transit home, and witnessing their rehabilitation process is a captivating experience for any traveller. As a part of the Group’s Sustainability Initiative, Thema Collection adopted a baby she elephant, pledging support for its rehabilitation journey.

The opening ceremony activities commenced with the adoption and naming of the baby she elephant at the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe, followed by the opening ceremony of the hotel at an auspicious time and the traditional boiling of milk, honouring Sri Lankan traditions and symbolising prosperity and blessings for the future.

With its unique location, cocooned by a cluster of jackfruit trees boarding a beautiful waterway, Waraka promises to be a sanctuary for discerning travellers seeking a meaningful and unforgettable experience amidst the wonders of Udawalawe.