Jetwing Vil Uyana, a luxury reserve, has been recognised once again by ‘Wanderlust’ magazine as one of the world’s top 10 hotels for responsible travel, emerging as the only hotel from Sri Lanka to feature on the publication’s prestigious ‘Wandersleeps 2026’ list. The accolade was selected from more than 100 editor-curated nominations and voted for by over 28,000 readers worldwide, celebrating hotels that lead the way in sustainable, experience-driven travel.
The recognition comes as Jetwing Vil Uyana marks its 20th anniversary in 2026, a milestone underscoring two decades of pioneering hospitality rooted in ecological restoration, sustainability and community engagement. The honour from Wanderlust, the UK’s leading independent travel magazine, reinforces the resort’s standing as a benchmark for purposeful and responsible travel on the global stage.
Commenting on the achievement, Hashan Cooray, Director of Marketing and Development at Jetwing Hotels, said, ‘Being named among the world’s top 10 responsible hotels and as the only Sri Lankan property to receive this recognition is a proud moment for all of us. As Jetwing Vil Uyana celebrates 20 years, this endorsement reaffirms our longstanding commitment to meaningful sustainability and to showcasing Sri Lanka’s ability to lead on the global stage in responsible luxury tourism’.
Opened in 2006, Jetwing Vil Uyana transformed a previously degraded agricultural landscape into a purpose-built wetland sanctuary inspired by Sri Lanka’s ancient cascade irrigation systems. Designed by environmental architect Sunela Jayawardena in consultation with environmental and irrigation experts, the 28-acre ecoluxury retreat features 36 dwellings set amidst lakes, paddy fields, marsh and forest habitats, supporting significant biodiversity regeneration.
Sustainability remains central to the resort’s operations, including solar energy generation, onsite wastewater treatment, waste segregation, and the early elimination of single-use plastic water bottles. Jetwing Vil Uyana is also renowned for responsible wildlife experiences, including guided nocturnal walks to observe the grey slender loris, with proceeds supporting conservation and community initiatives.
Beyond environmental stewardship, Jetwing Vil Uyana contributes actively to social development through the Jetwing Youth Development Programme (JYDP), launched in the same year as the hotel. The initiative provides free hospitality and life skills training to young people across Sri Lanka and has, to date, trained over 1,200 youth, many of whom have gone on to build longterm careers within Jetwing Hotels.
Source – sundaytimes.lk
