Waters Edge unveils its first-ever luxury room wing

Urban Development, Housing and Construction Minister Aruna Karunathilake (third from left) ceremoniously opening the Waters Edge New Room project in Waters Edge premises in Battaramulla, joined by (from left) Urban Development, Housing and Construction Ministry Secretary Ranjith Ariyaratne, Waters Edge Director Wirantha Hettiarachchi, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, Waters Edge Chairman Chathura Krishantha Perera, and Operations Director Iyantha Abeysinghe – Pix by Ruwan Walpola 

By Divya Thotawatte 

Long known as a go-to venue for weddings and events, Waters Edge recently expanded into full-fledged hospitality with the launch of its first-ever luxury room wing. 

This highly-anticipated rooms project by the hotel marks a significant step in transforming the venue into a comprehensive lifestyle destination, adding overnight stays to its event and dining experiences. The project, officially opened by Urban Development, Housing and Construction Minister Aruna Karunathilake, was spearheaded by Waters Edge Chairman Chathura Krishantha Perera and Waters Edge Director of Operations Iyantha Abeysinghe. 

The hotel wing features 50 high-end rooms, including two fully equipped to accommodate people with disabilities. Speaking to Daily FT, Waters Edge Procurement and Special Projects Director Eng. LA Joseph said, “This is the first hotel project within this property. Until now, we only had bridal changing rooms. We didn’t have any hotel rooms within the property, so now, it’s a full-fledged, complete hotel.” 

He explained that while expanding the hospitality scope of Waters Edge, they had designed the two rooms for guests with disabilities, adhering to the Government-mandated standards for accessible tourism. “These two rooms will be provided all the required facility for disabled persons together with all the other facilities of the luxury rooms,” Joseph added. 

The new wing blends modern luxury with Waters Edge’s original country club aesthetic. However, with a heavy focus on the natural environment, including stunning views of the Diyawanna Lake and its fauna, especially the crocodiles, offering its guests a more nature-forward experience that stands out in Colombo’s hospitality scene is also at the heart of the project. 

“It’s not just a state, it’s going to be an immersive experience that is. We are trying to redefine hospitality in such a different way that people resonate with nature. This will be a game changer in Sri Lanka’s hospitality space,” explained Waters Edge Marketing and Communications Manager Thusitha Ranathunga. 

He also revealed that future additions to the wing may include developing a rooftop restaurant with a panoramic view of the hotel’s green-dipped premises.

Guests staying at the new rooms will also enjoy convenient access to the hotel’s nine signature food and beverage outlets, each offering a unique culinary experience, ranging from the authentic Sri Lankan flavours at Thuna Pana to the refined Italian dining at Pranzo, Japanese dishes at Kobe, and the vibrant nightlife at Long Bar, Diyatha Station, Boardwalk, and more. 

In addition to gastronomic delights, Waters Edge offers a wide range of recreational activities, including aqua golf, bird watching, boat rides, seaplane excursions, and access to a fully equipped gym and luxurious swimming pool. Guests can also explore nearby natural and cultural attractions, such as the Diyasuru Park, Beddagana Wetland Park, and the Sri Lanka Parliament. 

Pix by Ruwan Walpola