• Founder and Chairman Dilip Herath on the hotel’s future

Amidst the picturesque landscape of Kandy, nestled amidst lush greenery is the Grand Serendib Hotel, a beacon of luxury and hospitality. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, the hotel reflected on its journey of growth, resilience, and the promise of a vibrant future.

In light of their anniversary, the hotel recently hosted a celebration with Grand Serendib Hotel Founder and Chairman Dilip Herath, investor former cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya as chief guest, Mayor of Kandy Kesara Senanayake, and a few more special invitees to commemorate this momentous occasion.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Morning Brunch, Dilip Herath shared insights into the hotel’s progress, its offerings, and its vision amid the challenges of the economic crisis.

Reflecting on the past year

Speaking on this milestone for the hotel, Hearth shared: “As we mark the one-year anniversary of Grand Serendib Hotel, it fills me with immense pride to reflect on our journey of growth, excellence, and unwavering commitment to hospitality. In the midst of challenges, we have emerged stronger, more resilient, and ever-dedicated to exceeding the expectations of our esteemed guests.”

“We believed that Sri Lanka and the tourism sector would bounce back,” Herath reflected. “We made our first investment in building and opening Grand Serendib Hotel Kandy with an investment of Rs. 1 billion, marking our first diversification into the leisure sector.”

Previously, Hearth was also the ABEC Premier Group Chairman, a global leader in student counselling for educational opportunities that has been offering international educational services for 17 years. While he still remains in the role of group founder, he chooses to spend his time expanding into the leisure sector in Sri Lanka, and claimed he believes in the tourism potential of our country. “Over the past year, we have welcomed guests from across the globe,” he added.

Despite the economic turbulence, Grand Serendib Hotel has thrived, becoming a haven for tourists seeking luxury and tranquillity. “We’ve seen a remarkable influx of tourists, and our hotel is frequently fully booked,” Herath noted with pride. “Our forward bookings are very promising, a testament to the enduring allure of Sri Lanka.”

While acknowledging the challenges posed by the recent economic crisis, he stated: “We are witnessing promising signs of recovery. The increased interest and bookings at our hotel signify a growing confidence among tourists in the allure of Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination.”

Unparalleled experience

Moreover, he noted that Kandy’s central location within the island positions it as a gateway to explore the diverse wonders of Sri Lanka. “From the mist-covered hills of Nuwara Eliya to the historic sites of Sigiriya, Kandy serves as a strategic hub for travellers eager to immerse themselves in the multifaceted experiences our country has to offer. The cultural vibrancy, coupled with the warm hospitality of the local community, creates an atmosphere that resonates with visitors seeking an authentic and enriching travel experience. Grand Serendib Hotel, deeply intertwined with the essence of Kandy, is not merely a place to stay; it is a portal to the soul of Sri Lanka.”

The Grand Serendib Hotel, designed to embody Kandyan architecture, offers 24 meticulously curated rooms, including two opulent suites and a spacious family room. “But our commitment to excellence extends far beyond our accommodations. At Grand Serendib Hotel, we have redefined the notion of luxury, offering guests an array of modern amenities and bespoke experiences tailored to elevate every moment of their stay. From our infinity swimming pool overlooking the scenic landscape to our rooftop area, perfect for private gatherings and memorable events, we strive to create moments that linger in the hearts and minds of our guests,” Herath explained.

In addition to its luxurious accommodations, Grand Serendib Hotel offers a rejuvenating head-to-toe yoga experience, providing guests with holistic wellness amidst the serenity of Kandy’s landscape. “We strive to create an unparalleled experience for our guests, one that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul,” Herath emphasised.

From country centre to coast

Looking towards the future, Grand Serendib Hotel embarks on an ambitious expansion project, reflecting its commitment to excellence and innovation. “We have already purchased a one-acre beachfront land in Beruwala,” Herath revealed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. “Looking forward, we are thrilled to announce our expansion plans, a testament to our unwavering commitment to growth and excellence. We have acquired a one-acre beachfront land in Beruwala and are poised to embark on the construction of a 55-room luxury boutique hotel, set to open its doors later this year. This new venture reflects our vision for the future, as we continue to redefine luxury and hospitality in Sri Lanka and beyond.”

As Grand Serendib Hotel continues to captivate travellers with its unparalleled hospitality, it remains deeply rooted in its commitment to the local community. “But amidst our achievements and aspirations, we remain deeply rooted in our commitment to the local community. As we celebrate our one-year milestone, we are proud to announce special promotions and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and accessibility, inviting locals to experience the splendour of Grand Serendib Hotel firsthand,” Herath shared, highlighting the hotel’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility.

In a world marked by uncertainty, Grand Serendib Hotel stands as a beacon of resilience, embodying the spirit of Sri Lanka’s enduring beauty and hospitality. In closing, Hearth commented: “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, whose unwavering commitment to excellence has been the cornerstone of our success. To our valued guests, thank you for entrusting us with your moments of joy, relaxation, and celebration. As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we invite you to join us in creating memories that transcend time and space, here at Grand Serendib Hotel, where every moment is a celebration of the extraordinary.”

With each passing year, it continues to redefine luxury, offering guests an unforgettable journey amidst the enchanting landscapes of Kandy and beyond.