The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as the “Grand Old Lady” of Sri Lanka’s hill country, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in its illustrious history. Following a year-long renovation, the iconic property will reopen its doors this month, unveiling reimagined interiors that harmoniously blend its rich colonial legacy with modern luxuries.

Gerard Ondaatjie, Deputy Chairman of the Grand Hotel, expressed his pride in the transformation, stating, “Our mission is to seamlessly combine Sri Lankan heritage with world-class luxury. This renovation reflects our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that resonate with modern travelers while preserving the hotel’s timeless elegance.”

Established in 1891 as the residence of Sir Edward Barnes, a British governor of Ceylon, the Grand Hotel has long been a symbol of colonial charm. Its Tudor-style architecture, sprawling gardens, and cool climate have earned Nuwara Eliya the nickname “Little England.” The hotel has hosted British royalty, dignitaries, and generations of travelers seeking respite in the highlands.

Under the visionary guidance of Gerard, internationally acclaimed interior architect Sahran Abeysundara was tasked with the renovation project aimed to retain the hotel’s nostalgic charm while infusing contemporary comforts. Key spaces such as the Magnolia Restaurant, Dilmah Tea Veranda, and the Garden Room have been thoughtfully transformed to elevate the guest experience while paying homage to the property’s storied past.

Nadeem Lebbe, Head of Contracting & Marketing, added, “Exquisite hospitality is at the core of our service philosophy. Every guest interaction is an opportunity to create extraordinary moments that exceed expectations.” Under the Deputy Chairman’s leadership, alongside Suresh Abbas, General Manager, the hotel is focusing on curating a bespoke, “exquisite hospitality” service delivery. This approach is designed not only to meet guest expectations but to exceed them by providing extraordinary experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Among the many enhancements, the revamped dining experiences are poised to delight guests:

• The Garden Room: Inspired by the lush surroundings and wildlife, including the Sri Lankan hill country leopard, this vibrant venue features plush seating, hand-painted murals, and a fusion menu by acclaimed chefs Augustus Lowe and Ralf Vogt.
• The Magnolia Restaurant: Paying tribute to the hotel’s colonial roots, this space boasts art deco touches and a menu celebrating local and global flavors with locally sourced ingredients.
• The Dilmah Tea Veranda: Known for its legendary afternoon tea, the veranda now doubles as a chic jazz lounge in the evenings, offering signature cocktails and live music.

The renovation project also underscores the Grand Hotel’s dedication to sustainability. By integrating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, the hotel aims to minimize its environmental impact while preserving its cultural heritage for future generations.

The Grand Hotel has garnered numerous accolades over the years, including:Top 100 Luxury Hotels of the World (Hotel of the Year Awards), National Geographic Travel’s Must Visit Place and Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels (CNN Travel)

The reopening marks a momentous occasion for the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya, cementing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s premier luxury destinations. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this rejuvenated haven where history meets sophistication.