• Named one of the best eco-hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveller

Jetwing Vil Uyana, a luxurious eco-hotel nestled in north-central Sri Lanka, has been recognised as one of the 15 best eco-hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveller. The hotel’s remarkable story from its conceptualisation to its operations is an example of how hotels can have a positive impact on the environment.

The story began in the early 2000s when Jetwing set out on a mission to convert 28 acres of abandoned paddy fields into a thriving wetland, inspired by the Barnes wetland on the outskirts of London and ancient Sri Lanka. Despite the challenging conditions, the team at Jetwing persevered, and the dream of creating a wetland teeming with wildlife became a reality.

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Jetwing Vil Uyana officially opened its doors in 2006, and since then, the faunal diversity on the property has increased significantly. The wetland now boasts over 157 species of birds and over 29 mammals, with the numbers of butterflies, reptiles, and amphibians also showing significant growth. The property’s story of the grey slender loris, discovered on site in 2010, has prompted the management to abandon development plans and declare the area as a loris research and conservation site – the first of its kind in the world. The conservation project, which has been ongoing for over 12 years, has seen the birth of 29 lorises, the development of a research centre, and the publication of two books.

Jetwing Hotels is guided by a comprehensive six-fold sustainability strategy that involves the community and nature alike. The hotel’s thatched roofing, which was inspired by traditional Sri Lankan architectural concepts, and in-house grown and locally sourced produce are just a few examples of how Jetwing Vil Uyana sets the benchmark for responsible travel in all aspects. The hotel’s award-winning community initiatives such as the Jetwing Youth Development Project and Second Careers provide work opportunities for middle-aged women to achieve financial independence.

Jetwing Symphony PLC Chairman Hiran Cooray spoke highly of the hotel and its recognition by Condé Nast Traveller. “Jetwing Vil Uyana has been our flagship resort since 2006. The ambitious project designed by acclaimed environmental architect Sunela Jayewardene, along with a team of experts in various fields, set a new tone for eco-luxury hotels in Sri Lanka and the region,” Cooray said. “We are honoured to receive this recognition by Condé Nast Traveller, one of the leading travel publications in the world, and the opportunity this gives to take our island forward as a leading sustainable travel destination.”

Commitment to sustainability

Jetwing’s commitment to sustainability is rooted in the belief that tourism cannot exist in isolation and can only function effectively when integrated with the environment and local communities. The founder of Jetwing, Herbert Cooray, believed in this fundamental conviction, and the company continues to carry out its operations while enhancing the surroundings of their homes of authentic Sri Lankan hospitality across the emerald isle.

Jetwing Hotels has been in the tourism industry for the past 50 years and is family-owned. The company’s passion for traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, combined with a commitment to sustainability, has enabled them to imagine, create, and manage marvels and masterpieces where distinctive design and elegant comfort complement each other and the environment. Across all Jetwing properties, sustainable and responsible practices are given precedence, with resource efficiency, community upliftment and education, and awareness being some of the key focus areas.

Cooray also emphasised the role of travellers in promoting sustainable tourism. “We want to encourage travellers to embrace sustainable tourism and to leave a positive impact on the communities they visit. By staying at eco-hotels like Jetwing Vil Uyana, travellers can make a significant contribution to the environment and the communities they visit. We hope that our guests will leave Sri Lanka with a greater appreciation of its natural beauty, cultural heritage and the warmth of its people.”

Jetwing Vil Uyana’s achievement of being recognised as one of the 15 best eco hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveller is a testament to the dedication and passion of the team behind the project. Speaking about the recognition, Cooray said: “This recognition is a validation of our commitment to sustainable tourism and our efforts to make a positive impact on the environment and local communities. We are proud to be part of a growing movement towards responsible and sustainable travel, and we will continue to work towards creating unique and memorable experiences for our guests while also contributing to the conservation and preservation of our natural and cultural heritage.”

Jetwing Symphony PLC Chairman Hiran Cooray

Beyond the hotel

Jetwing Vil Uyana’s focus on sustainability extends beyond the hotel premises. The hotel has partnered with local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices and support community development initiatives. The Jetwing Youth Development Project provides vocational training and employment opportunities for young people from low-income families, while the Second Careers program offers work opportunities for middle-aged women who have limited job prospects. The hotel also works with local farmers to source fresh, organic produce for its restaurants, contributing to the local economy and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.

The success of Jetwing Vil Uyana has not only earned it global recognition but also inspired other businesses in Sri Lanka and the region to adopt sustainable tourism practices. Cooray believes that sustainable tourism is the way forward for the industry and encourages other businesses to follow suit. “Sustainable tourism is not only good for the environment and local communities but also for business. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can reduce costs, improve efficiency and create unique experiences for their guests. We hope that our success will inspire other businesses in Sri Lanka and the region to embrace sustainable tourism practices and contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Jetwing Vil Uyana’s success story is a shining example of what can be achieved when businesses prioritise sustainability and work towards making a positive impact on the environment and local communities. As Cooray put it: “We believe that sustainable tourism is not only good for the planet but also for business. By prioritising sustainability and responsible practices, we can create unique and unforgettable experiences for our guests while also contributing to a more sustainable future for our planet.”