Kalpitiya Stage II - Bidding Starts on Integrated Tourism Resort Project in Western Sri Lanka

February 2010, www.sltda.gov.lk

Six picturesque islands located in the tranquil waters of Dutch Bay, which are vested by the Government, have been included for Stage II - Lease Bidding of the Kalpitiya Integrated Tourism Resort Project.

The objective of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority in developing Kalpitiya is to “Create a unique, branded international green resort for up – market tourism, which would be a bench mark project in the Region.“

The islands, vested by the Government, are Periya Arachchalai, Sinna Arachchalai, Sinna Erumutivu, Erumutivu West, Erumutivu and Kakativu. Each contains diverse sceneries ranging from mangroves, thick scrub jungle vegetation, beach strips, open grass lands, and mud flats. Hidden attractions can be found within each island with their own distinct and sensitive eco systems. The water holes, surrounded by mangrove vegetation, create a haven for bird life and fauna. Rich varieties of marine life live in the surrounding waters, further enhancing the bio diversity.

These islands were selected for the high potential of eco - tourism products they can offer. The varying extents of the islands, Erumutivu the largest and Sinna Erumutivu the smallest, will also emphasize their unique qualities.

The extent of the Resorts envisioned on each island and the anticipated room capacity (total of 635 rooms) are as follows:

Periya Arachchalai 42.50 ha – 120 rooms, Sinna Arachchalai 16.26 ha – 50 rooms, Erumutivu West 4.25 ha – 25 rooms, Sinna Erumutivu 2.11ha - 15 rooms, Erumutivu 100.045ha – 300 rooms, Kakativu 27.15ha – 125 rooms.

All six islands are easily accessible by boat, with a time span of about 20 minutes from the Kalpitiya main land. Sinna Erumutivu, Erumutivu West, Erumutivu and Kaktivu are located in close proximity to the Kalpitiya mainland and Anivasal area, while Periya Arachalai and Sinna Arachahala are located further north and also accessible from Kirimundal area.

Investors are invited to construct and operate resorts and tourism products of different magnitudes with auxiliary facilities, appropriate for the size and features of the individual island, as indicated in the conceptual master plan prepared by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.