At Aarunya, a premier hotel-resort property in Sri Lanka, we embody the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability as integral parts of our ethos and philosophy. We hold a deep respect for the communities where we operate, whether local, regional, national, or global, and strive to make positive contributions to their well-being.
Our commitment to CSR, and sustainability/green initiatives is unwavering. We operate with the understanding that our actions have far-reaching impacts, and we actively seek opportunities to create meaningful change. We prioritize initiatives that not only benefit society but also foster environmental stewardship and economic empowerment.
We aim to become the first fully Biodynamic property in Sri Lanka. Biodynamic farming is a holistic, organic method that treats the farm as a living organism. Our consultants have developed a comprehensive biodynamic program at Aarunya to enhance soil health, productivity and biodiversity.
We prioritize sourcing from local suppliers to reduce food miles and support local entrepreneurs, such as providing fresh milk from local village farmers for our staff daily.
With a greenhouse, organic vegetable patches, rice/paddy fields, coconut trees, and spice/tea gardens, we cultivate our own fresh, organic produce for use in our kitchens, ensuring garden-to-table dining.
At Aarunya, we are deeply committed to ecological restoration and sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance our natural environment.
Our initiatives focus on reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and habitat enrichment to support the flourishing of native fauna. We are actively improving natural habitats and encouraging wildlife through strategic planting and environmental stewardship.
Through tea intercropping with vanilla and pepper, we not only diversify our agricultural output but also create layered ecosystems that benefit both flora and fauna.
Our soil and moisture conservation efforts emphasize micro-level improvements—including the use of biodynamic fertilizers, the enhancement of soil microbes and carbon levels, and nitrogen-fixing through natural leaf litter and fodder crops—as well as macro-level improvements such as supporting beneficial insect populations.
These holistic practices promote plant health, ecosystem balance, and the regeneration of natural resources, ensuring a thriving, resilient landscape for generations to come.
The Aarunya Nature Research Pavilion is taking shape beautifully — a true harmony of design and nature, built sustainably with bamboo and timber.
Set amidst breathtaking biodiversity and overlooking the UNESCO-listed Knuckles Mountain Range, this Centre will be the heart of our journey towards becoming Sri Lanka’s first fully biodynamic hotel property. It will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, supporting PhD students, specialist consultants, and naturalists in collaboration with the University of Peradeniya.
From immersive nature walks and bird watching to community-based conservation efforts, the Centre will enrich the holistic, nature-inspired experience at Aarunya. Stay tuned as we continue building a future rooted in sustainability and knowledge.
We are currently reusing bottles for garden lights. We also plan to collaborate with local artists and children from the nearby village to transform our waste materials into beautiful artworks on-site, promoting creativity and sustainability.
We source all water (except potable water) from wells on the property, treating it on-site using an advanced water treatment plant.
We are transitioning to an off-the-grid energy model using solar arrays, battery storage, hot water, and biogas for cooking.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Sri Lanka energy/economic crisis, Aarunya has consistently provided secure, uninterrupted services, developing sustainable resource management in water, power, and food supply.
Solar panels are being installed across the property to reduce dependence on the grid and minimize generator diesel usage.
We use electric buggies for internal guest and staff transport needs, promoting energy-efficient and eco-friendly mobility throughout the property. The buggies will be charged by Solar Electricity.
We are retrofitting our existing bicycles to transform them into e-cycles, powered by solar electricity, to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
Our on-site waste sorting, disposal, composting and recycling programs ensure minimal waste generation and promote sustainable practices across the property.
We aim to minimise and eliminate single-use plastics at Aarunya, to reduce our environmental footprint and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
All black and grey wastewater is treated and disposed of on-site using natural processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact and sustainability.
We ensure that our meats, seafood, crustaceans, and produce are organic and ethically sourced, maintaining high standards for sustainability and responsible sourcing.
We are an equal opportunity employer with anti-discrimination policies. Our Staff Welfare Fund supports staff and families, and we are committed to staff training, development, and retention.
Aarunya was built with the help of local craftsmen/builders and suppliers, and our ongoing development projects continue to follow sustainable practices, including the preservation of trees and local environments.
Our in-house Naturalist and Naturalist-Butlers guide you on a nature walk through our ten acre property, exploring the tea estate, spice gardens, rice field, and new paths for ‘Forest Bathing,’ enhancing your physical and mental well-being.
Aarunya is proud to contribute to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s unique biodiversity through our ongoing efforts to protect the critically endangered Moorer’s Shrub Frog (Pseudophilautus mooreorum), a globally threatened amphibian species endemic to the region.
This rare species has been identified within the grounds of the Aarunya Biodiversity Garden, a dedicated conservation space within our estate. By maintaining a protected natural habitat and minimizing ecological disturbances, we aim to provide a safe refuge for this delicate species.
Our initiative also includes educational outreach and collaboration with environmental specialists to raise awareness and ensure long-term sustainability of amphibian life in the Matale/Kandy and in particular the Knuckles Mountain Range and Aarunya ecosystems.
The Aarunya Nature Foundation focuses on empowering local villagers, particularly underprivileged children, and supporting environmental conservation efforts.
Empowering Communities, Developing Youth, Protecting Nature
The Aarunya Nature Research Pavilion is taking shape beautifully — a true harmony of design and nature, built sustainably with bamboo and timber.
Set amidst breathtaking biodiversity and overlooking the UNESCO-listed Knuckles Mountain Range, this Centre will be the heart of our journey towards becoming Sri Lanka’s first fully biodynamic hotel property. It will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, supporting PhD students, specialist consultants, and naturalists in collaboration with the University of Peradeniya.
It will elevate the guest experience through immersive activities tied to habitat and ecosystem research, estate-based production, and community-led conservation initiatives—including environmental education programs for local schoolchildren—underscoring our deep commitment to sustainability, education, and authentic connection with nature. Stay tuned as we continue building a future rooted in sustainability and knowledge.
At Aarunya, we are deeply committed to ecological restoration and sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance our natural environment.
Our initiatives focus on reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and habitat enrichment to support the flourishing of native fauna. We are actively improving natural habitats and encouraging wildlife through strategic planting and environmental stewardship.
Through tea intercropping with vanilla and pepper, we not only diversify our agricultural output but also create layered ecosystems that benefit both flora and fauna. Our soil and moisture conservation efforts emphasize micro-level improvements—including the use of biodynamic fertilizers, the enhancement of soil microbes and carbon levels, and nitrogen-fixing through natural leaf litter and fodder crops—as well as macro-level improvements such as supporting beneficial insect populations.
These holistic practices promote plant health, ecosystem balance, and the regeneration of natural resources, ensuring a thriving, resilient landscape for generations to come.
Aarunya is proud to contribute to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s unique biodiversity through our ongoing efforts to protect the critically endangered Moorer’s Shrub Frog (Pseudophilautus mooreorum), a globally threatened amphibian species endemic to the region.
This rare species has been identified within the grounds of the Aarunya Biodiversity Garden, a dedicated conservation space within our estate. By maintaining a protected natural habitat and minimizing ecological disturbances, we aim to provide a safe refuge for this delicate species.
Our initiative also includes educational outreach and collaboration with environmental specialists to raise awareness and ensure long-term sustainability of amphibian life in the Matale/Kandy and in particular the Knuckles Mountain Range and Aarunya ecosystems.
We support underprivileged children by providing annual school packs including shoes, notebooks, stationery, and bags.
We provide books for the local school libraries and the Aarunya Resort Library to encourage learning.
We sponsor regular village clean-ups and beautification projects, collaborating with local villagers and community leaders.
We help found and funded IT equipment for the local village’s children’s IT class at the local village Buddhist temple (The temple is traditionally the heart of village life and social projects/programs are often held there).
We provided food and ration packs to 7 nearby villages during the COVID-19 lockdown, supporting locals who couldn’t earn a living (As most villagers live off their daily work wages).
Dr. M.A.P.K. Seneviratne is a seasoned professional in agricultural extension and rural development, with a rich academic background and extensive experience in both academia and the public sector. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension, he has contributed significantly to research and is considered a leading authority in his field. Dr. Seneviratne has held the highest position, as the Director General of the Department of Export Agriculture Sri Lanka. He has led numerous initiatives aimed at improving agricultural value chains, including consultancy work for the Market Development Facility and the World Bank. His international experience includes serving as the country liaison officer to the International Pepper Community in Indonesia and as the Country Chairman for the CODEX committee on culinary herbs and spices. Dr. Seneviratne’s commitment to knowledge dissemination is evident through his role as a visiting lecturer and his involvement in several professional societies and committees, cementing his reputation as an expert in agricultural development and research.
Dr. P.S.B. Wanduragala is a distinguished academic and professional with significant experience in environmental and agricultural research, education, and project management. He has made key contributions to plant neurobiology and environmental science, holding important roles like Secretary to the Board of Governors at the National Institute of Fundamental Studies in Kandy, Sri Lanka, and Senior Project Manager at the Wayamba Development Authority. He also served as an Assistant Lecturer and Demonstrator at the Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya. Dr. Wanduragala’s research interests include the effects of electromagnetic potential gradients on plant growth and the development of eco-friendly bio-fertilizers. He has published extensively and earned prestigious accolades such as the international Green Apple Award for his work in sustainable agriculture. Actively involved in teaching and organizing seminars on organic farming and eco-tourism, he has contributed significantly to establishing tissue culture laboratories and promoting post-harvest technologies. His work is a testament to his dedication to sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Dr. Lal Rankothge is an accomplished environmental management professional with over 25 years of experience in sustainability, environmental protection, and commercial agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region. As the Managing Director of Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, Dr. Rankothge combines his passion for environmental conservation with the development and management of a sustainable hospitality venture. His diverse career includes roles as a Freelance Lead Technical Consultant specializing in Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS), ISO14000 certification, and environmental auditing. Dr. Rankothge has contributed to international projects as a Senior Consultant/Team Leader in ESMS at the International Institute of Development Training and EML Consultants in Sri Lanka, as well as a Consultant for the World Environment Program in Africa. His previous position as Senior Professional at the Department of Environment, Climate Change & Water in NSW, Australia, showcases his dedication to environmental governance. His multifaceted career highlights his commitment to advancing global sustainability efforts.
Mr. Nath Rankothge is an Australian Registered Architect and Property Developer with a distinguished career in architectural design and property development. As the founder of Nath Rankothge & Associates (NRA), an international property development and architectural design firm, he leads visionary projects that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Nath has worked with leading architectural firms such as SOM (New York), UNStudio (Shanghai), Aukette Swanke (London), and Balmond Studio (Colombo/London), where he honed his expertise in delivering cutting-edge architectural solutions on a global scale. Nath’s current role as Architect and Property Developer for Aarunya showcases his ability to integrate sustainability with aesthetic excellence in hospitality projects. Through NRA and Aarunya, Nath is committed to creating environmentally sensitive and socially impactful designs. His work exemplifies his dedication to advancing the built environment while meeting the challenges of modern development in harmony with nature.
Dr. Mallika Rankothge, with a PhD in Chemistry from UNSW, is a Director at Aarunya Nature Resort. She plays a key role in shaping the resort’s strategic direction and sustainability initiatives.
Dr. Rankothge is integral to the vision for Aarunya’s plantation and landscaping efforts, ensuring that the resort’s environment thrives with eco-friendly practices. Her expertise also extends to roles as Director of Sarees n Things in Sydney and Independent Associate with Usana Health Sciences. Additionally, she is a Director of the Vidusetha Higher Education Foundation in Sri Lanka, where she supports the advancement of education.
With a strong commitment to sustainability, community development, and empowering local communities, Dr. Rankothge contributes significantly to Aarunya’s CSR goals and its positive environmental and social impact.
Vijaya Anand is a Biodiversity Conservationist & Ecological Habitat Specialist who brings over 15 years of expertise in biodiversity conservation, ecological habitat management, and naturalist work. With a Diploma in Biodiversity Management from the University of Colombo and advanced training from the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (UK), Vijaya has contributed to numerous biodiversity assessments and ecological initiatives across Sri Lanka.
His roles with Rainforest Rescue International, Nagenahiru Environmental Learning Centre, and other esteemed organizations highlight his dedication to habitat restoration and conservation. As an active member of the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group and The Young Zoologists’ Association, Vijaya’s passion for preserving Sri Lanka’s natural heritage aligns with Aarunya’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.