Dambulla has been one of the most desired cultural destinations in Sri Lanka engulfed in a religious aura of its own. It was once a royal domain of the mighty monarch King Valagamba. It is stated that he used an area of land where he augmented the combat skills of his faithful warriors.
Today this very land embellished with such glorious history is the very location where Jetwing hotels have created their newest property Jetwing Lake. The hotel rises majestically to greet the mountains that border the Siyambalawewa water tank. 94 rooms inclusive of 4 opulent suites truly redefine luxury and comfort. The interior of each room is generously spacious, as the hotel brilliantly blends in with the surrounding foliage. I was able to observe many birds including peacocks, meandering the lush green gardens.
A unique venue in this resplendent hotel is the bar which sits on level two with an extended walkway where you can stand and be captivated by the inspiring scenery with a view of the 71 meter swimming pool. Guests can also use the spa and gym. The Jetwing hotels have always upheld the finest culinary practices and excel in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Jetwing Lake brings to life some of the most succulent local curries, supplemented by world class buffets. The chilled glass of tamarind juice is testament to the creative ability of the Chef. In addition the hotel also has a scintillating Chinese restaurant. Jetwing is a Sri Lankan company in every sense.
A family owned business that passionately cares for each associate. The Jetwing story dates back to 1973 when its visionary founder the late Herbert Cooray started his first hotel in Negombo. Herbert’s prudent business acumen has strongly influenced the sustained and profitable growth of Jetwing Hotels who currently operate 19 hotels and 11 villas with a total room inventory of 1258 rooms that has certainly enhanced Sri Lankas position as a desired tourism destination in Asia.
In 2008 Jetwing was recognized as a Business Super Brand in Sri Lanka. Making use of their 44 years of experience Jetwing hotels has for the past few years implemented the JYDP concept in recruiting staff. The Jetwing Youth Development Programme selects youth from under privileged families in the area where the new hotels are built and trains them for 6 months. The youth are taught English with other hospitality skills. I was able to speak to some of the 24 youth who had successfully followed the JYDP concept and are presently employed at Jetwing Lake. These smiling young men and women are truly empowered .This is real endorsement to corporate social responsibility and also creates a win-win situation for both the village and hotel. Jetwing Lake has its own solar power park maintaining their policy on sustainable strategy. The hotel operates their own biomass boiler. In keeping with their concept of conservation the hotel has selected 2 acres of underdeveloped forest and planted native trees for species enrichment. Jetwing Lake was declared open by present Chairman Hiran Cooray along with members of the board of Jetwing Symphony Limited. (DJ).