Water Garden Sigiriya : A culturally-rich haven of luxurious tranquillity

Swathed amidst the fascinating cultural riches of the ancient Sigiriya rock fortress, the new luxurious Water Garden Sigiriya resort beckons as the idyllic location for visitors seeking an indulgent haven.
Set amongst 35 acres cloaked in luxury surrounded by flawlessly landscaped tropical gardens and a beguiling country setting, Water Garden Sigiriya reveals a world of poetic experiences.

Citing the mastery of the location, Union Resorts & Spas Ltd Chairman Ajith Wijeyesekera, owner of Water Garden Sigiriya, said, “Sigiriya has always inspired me. We have taken a page from Sigiriya gardens and tried to emulate it. The resort is built on the axis of the rock and as you enter the resort, a stunning vista of the rock is before you.”

Drawn to this fascinating region he says, “More than anything else love of the area, love for the rock and love for the garden,” helped create this masterpiece.
 

Uniqueness
The uniqueness of the resort lies in the extraordinary diversity of design meeting modern architectural flair creating a distinct retreat unlike anything Sri Lanka has ever seen before. 
“The whole product is very unique, in fact the architectural features in all four public areas – the reception, the restaurant, bar and the spa are timeless and iconic but with the recognisable stamp of its distinct locale,” Wijeyesekera confirms.

The resort also pushes the limits of sustainable design with ‘equal amounts of water and equal amounts of garden overlaid within water and paddy fields’ where regional inspiration and timeless elegance blend. 
“It’s taking a step back in time, walking through these paddy fields, on bunds reimagining how life was 2000 years ago in Sri Lanka,” Wijeyesekera enthused.
While at the same time ensuring a positive contribution to environmental restoration, “With access to water from the Thalkotuwa Wewa, we grow paddy, use it for our cultivation, for our waterways, then its redirected back to the reservoir,” he added.

Combining its regal setting, as an unrivalled icon of luxurious hospitality, every item is a symbol of uncompromising elegance. Exclusive furniture from Indonesia, a whimsically designed turtle lampshade and an awe-inspiring beautiful chandelier are among the many unique elements seen at the resort.

“Every single item in place is a unique creation. Nothing is off the shelf but has been designed, redesigned and crafted to make it very unusual,” Wijeyesekera said.
Different artistic genres such as Ena de Silva’s legendary batik work, sculptures and a captivating chandelier by renowned Laki Senanayake, paintings from inspirational artist Anup Vega and not forgetting the sophisticated twists on local heritage by one of the country’s most celebrated architects Channa Daswatte all contribute to Water Garden’s signature elements.
 

Boost for local artisans
Supporting local artisans, Water Garden also procures products and handlooms from Island Craft, a project that helps communities preserve local craft heritage. 
Wijeyesekera explained, “We have used the talents of our native craftsmen from villages to create various designs. For example, under our guidance they created pieces of art from reedware, baskets for guests to place used linen, cosy trays to place unpacked clothes upon.”

Born out of a need to fulfil every guest’s desire, the Water Garden’s Butler service will provide guests discreet, personalized attention including packing, unpacking, pressing and beverage service.
Water Garden Sigiriya understands the needs of the modern-day traveller who desires the finest experiences imaginable. 
“I think a great hotel is built based on the time and effort put into the product. First the product and the right service level, offering the best experience and great memories that will be remembered and cherished for years,” Wijeyesekera said.

“We are very confident Water Garden Sigiriya offers something never seen before in Sri Lanka, the experience we offer - so local, traditional and yet so unique will definitely put us on the map,” he added.