ITC enters international market with ultra-luxury Ratnadipa in Sri Lanka

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Colombo’s skyline welcomed a new landmark today as ITC Hotels unveiled ITC Ratnadipa, marking the hospitality giant’s foray into the international market. Situated in the prestigious Gale Face area, the twin towers of ITC Ratnadipa, reminiscent of iconic structures seen in Singapore and Malaysia. As  Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka, said at the inauguration ceremony- “The skyline of Colombo has a new gem.”

This is not just ITC’s first hotel outside of India, this also marks the biggest investment made by an Indian company in Sri Lanka so far. The inauguration ceremony was graced by His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Sri Lanka, and attended by esteemed dignitaries including Hon’ble Prime Minister Dinesh Gunewardena and Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha.

Sanjeev Puri, Chairman, ITC group said that ITC Ratnadipa is a step towards strengthening tourism ties between India and Sri Lanka in the direction that PM Narendra Modi called- neighbors first.

Also read: Tourism in Sri Lanka rebounds as revenue reaches $1.8 billion in 2023

Beyond hospitality, ITC Ratnadipa aims to boost MICE tourism in Sri Lanka with its modern banqueting facilities spread over 40,000 square feet, ideal for hosting corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings. Additionally, the project introduces Sky Mansions to South Asia with the Sapphire Residences, offering luxurious apartments and penthouses with panoramic ocean views.

Santosh Jha, Indian High commissioner in Sri Lanka, stressed on India’s commitment towards Sri Lanka and said that India has always stood by its neighbor through thick and thin including the Covid pandemic and the financial crisis in the island country. “Launch of UPI, connectivity corridors and now ITC luxury property show India’s support to Sri Lanka,” said Jha.

Keeping it local, the hotel’s architecture and design is inspired by the national flower of Sri Lanka, the floating water lily. ITC Ratnadipa has 352 guest rooms, suites, and service apartments, each boasting private balconies offering stunning waterfront views. The hotel is strategically positioned between the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake, comprises two towers connected by the state-of-the-art ‘Ahasa’ sky bridge, an architectural marvel soaring 100 meters above ground.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow