Hunas Falls joins forces with top hotelier Adrian Zecha for ‘Visumpaya’ restoration project

• Colombo’s iconic residence to undergo remarkable transformation to restore its former glory

Representatives of Hunas Holdings PLC, Chairman of Hunas Holdings PLC Dhanuka Samarasinghe, Consortium of Japanese Investors, Koji Sugimoto, Chairman of Azotels Hospitality Limited Adrian Zecha

Hunas Holdings PLC has entered into a tripartite agreement with the Urban Development Authority (UDA) and Azotels Hospitality Limited and its subsidiaries for the purpose of development and management of ‘Visumpaya’ property located at No. 25, Lillie Street, Colombo 2.

“The partnership will see the revitalisation of a historic landmark into a luxury boutique property, while the management of the property will be undertaken by Azotels, bringing in line to international standards,” a stock market filing by Hunas Falls said.
Hunas Falls has joined forces with the Azotels owner Adrian Zecha, the founder and inspiration behind Aman Luxury Resorts, to undertake the ambitious project of restoring this historic landmark.

Nestled in the heart of Colombo, the 4-acre ‘Visumpaya’ property holds significant historical value as one of Sri Lanka’s well-known official residences. Its colonial mansion, constructed nearly 190 years ago, serves as a testament to the rich past of our nation. 
Initially named ‘Acland House’ and used as the Mess House for the officers of the Ceylon Rifles Regiment, the property later became the Manager’s Quarters and Office for the Colombo Commercial Company, a prominent player in the commercial trade during that era. 

Following nationalisation under the Business Acquisitions Act in the 1970s, the property was transferred to the government and assigned to the Sri Lanka Navy for refurbishment as a State Guest House. 
Renamed ‘Visumpaya,’ it has since hosted numerous important events, including the first State Banquet held in honour of the Prime Minister of Japan in 1990.

Adrian Zecha, renowned hotelier with a deep commitment to preserving natural habitats, has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading many remarkable restoration projects, including many UNESCO heritage sites. 

With a career spanning over five decades, Zecha has established various luxurious brands such as Regent Hotels & Resorts, GHM hotels, and Aman Resorts. Since 1988, he has successfully developed 33 exceptional Aman hotels across 23 countries, including two properties in Sri Lanka. 
Aman resorts are celebrated for providing guests with an unparalleled luxury experience, while Zecha himself places great importance on responsible tourism and promoting sustainable and socially responsible practices. 

In addition to his achievements in the hospitality industry, Zecha is also a dedicated patron of cultural institutions and a committed philanthropist. Zecha’s passion for this new project is clear as he refers to ‘Visumpaya’ as ‘The Jewel of Colombo.’ Discussing this landmark partnership, Zecha extended a personal note of gratitude to Sugimoto, one of the key members of the Consortium.

“An opportunity of this magnitude has been given to us, and we are aware of our responsibility to make this location a landmark that future generations can relate to. After all it’s our history and our future” Dhanuka Samarasinghe, Chairman of Hunas Holdings PLC said. 
The recent launch of the development of their flagship property Hunas Falls Hotel under the Azotels direction, shows their growing momentum as they move forward. 
Hunas Holdings PLC has expanded its ventures into other hospitality properties, plantations, renewable energy and more, firmly rooting itself to a strong commitment to empower the island’s true potential.