The Grand Walawwa opens in Kegalle
Adding the much needed up market hospitality touch to the city of Kegalle, The Grand Walawwa, a colonial villa converted to a luxury hotel was opened last month.
Reputed Jewellery Manufacturer and Retailer Shri Nadika Gem & Jewellery based in Kegalle, Kurunegala and Kandy also announced its entry into the hospitality industry with the opening of The Grand Walawwa.
Originally commissioned over a century ago by the late Albert A. Wickremasinghe, a revered philanthropist, human rights activist, planter, and Proctor of the Supreme Court, The Grand Walawwa is situated atop a majestic hill overlooking Kegalle town.
The architectural splendor of The Grand Walawwa is a testament to the renowned British firm of architects, Edward, Reid & Begg.
Throughout its illustrious history, this property has played host to numerous luminaries, including royalty such as the Duke of Gloucester, as well as influential figures like the Senanayake brothers (DS and FR) and also had the honour of hosting significant events. During the visit of British Royals represented by the Duke & Duchess of Gloucester, who represented the King for Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, they were hosted for lunch at ‘Wickrama’ in Kegalle.
This residence has also welcomed the Crown Prince of Japan and was graced by esteemed Prime Ministers, including D. S. Senanayake, Dudley Senanayake, S. S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, Sir John Kotelawala, R. Premadasa, among other notable luminaries.
Interior architect Ruwean Gunaratna played a crucial role in bringing the property back to life while preserving the structure and antique features and said that for the first time in the local hotel industry they have converted a former power generating room into a honeymoon suite. “We have also left the old dynamo in the room and there is bid demand for this suite.”
“We added plenty of modernity without changing the original design and restored the property to a habitable state.”
Operations Manager, Ponniah Pragasam said that in a bid to provide a luxury touch of dining to the people of Kegalle they opened their in-house Indian restaurant with diverse dining options featuring a fusion of Western and Eastern delicacies as well.”
The property also offers two separate luxury ballroom venues for weddings, receptions and other momentous occasions, while also offering a backdrop for breathtaking photo shoots. Offering nine rooms it also has a swimming pool., over 100-year-old billiards table and many other luxury facilities.