‘Kassapa Lion rock’ where culture blends with nature and adventure

2 August 2012 05:11 am Views - 6248

The destination Sigiriya is one of the most attracted tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Popularly known as the ‘eighth wonder of the world', Sigiriya Rock is the largest crowd pulling attraction in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan visitors to the great heritage became double the amount every year due to educational and knowledge expansion of the local community.

To accommodate the inflow of travellers to Sigiriya more accommodation and more facilities have come up during the past few years. The hotels and resorts have been adding to the local folder during the past few years.

Though it is almost five years old, Kassapa Lions Rock stands tall in the star class facility provider to travellers both Sri Lankans and foreigners visiting the area. It is located in the midst of a small village Digampathaha, just 20 minutes from Dambulla.

Kassapa Lion Rock Hotel is the only property in the vicinity, which has a clear view of both Sigiriya Rock and the mysterious Pidurangala from its lobby area.

‘Out of all the hotels, we got the best view of the rocks. Most of the promotional materials ignored Pidurangala, which is equally important as a historical and as an archaeological factor. We promote both rocks' said Nilan Wickremasinghe, the proprietor of the hotel.

Kassapa Lions Rock shelters 31 well appointed spacious chalets with beautiful open air bath rooms giving a perfect ambiance for a comfortable stay. Hot and cold water, open air shower, satellite TV, mini bar, IDD are some of the facilities available at the individual chalets. The modern swimming pool adds luxury to simple village atmosphere.

‘The concept of the ‘Kassapa Lion Rock' is ‘village'. Apart from the view of Sigiriya and Pidurangala, we have our own working paddy field. Greenery in every corner and the country look is the top attraction of the overseas visitors' said Mr. Wickremasinghe.

‘Kassapa Lion Rock' is categorized as one of the best bird friendly hotels in the region by the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (FOGSL).

‘We have identified nearly 168 species of birds in our premises and some are endemic. Our aim is to keep the traditional atmosphere in star class level' said Nishantha Abeysinghe, the Resident Manager of the hotel.

Apart from the Village atmosphere, Chef Buddhika Munasinghe has an array of dishes from the region as well as from around the world. The open air restaurant surrounded by nature, serves a variety of dishes ranging from eastern to western cuisine along with an Ala Carte menu.

‘Not only Sri Lankans, but foreigners too love to taste authentic Sri Lankan dishes. We offer from BBQ to widespread Continental cuisine along with local dishes to feel the typical village atmosphere' explained Chef Buddhika, who has a career spanning over 25 years and experience in several star class hotels around the world.

Kassapa Lions Rock Hotel is an ideal base from which travellers can explore many picturesque sites famous for its historic and cultural importance, such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Ritigala, which are just one to two hours drive from the hotel.

‘ National parks which are famous for ‘elephant gatherings' such as Minneriya, Kaudulla and Huruluweva Eco Park are located in close proximity to the hotel and we arrange excursions on request' explained Roshi Stronach, the General Manager –sales and Marketing of the hotel.

‘Even guests can have a walk to the nearby village in the evening to feel the locality. This is popular among not only foreigners but with Sri Lankans too' said Nilan.

Kassapa Hotel is a popular venue for in-house conferences and seminars and can accommodate 75-100 people. It is also a destination for corporate outings too.

According to RM Nishantha,special packages can be arranged for accommodation during conferences and seminars. ‘We also arrange entertainment, cocktails, theme nights, special menus and events on individual requests' he said.