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(Reproduced from the Sunday Observer of November 25, 2001)
Overlooking the scenic beauty of the gorgeous Parakrama Samudraya, Hotel Seruwa, Polonnarwa was built in 1974 by the late P.B.G. Kalugalla, the then Tourism and Shipping Minister. The ceremonial opening of the hotel was on July 27, 1974. Built on a three-acre land beautifully landscaped, with a large swimming pool, Hotel Seruwa is in the centre of the world famous Polonnaruwa ruins which is a major tourist attraction not only to foreigners but Sri Lankans alike. It is also in the centre of the Irrigation works of the past massive reservoirs, built by ancient kings, to collect water for Agriculture for which Sri Lanka was famous at that time. Senior Manager, Marketing, Ranjith Balasuriya said that Hotel Seruwa has become popular due to its easy excess to the historic places in the Cultural Triangle, and presently popular amongst company outings. It is also in close proximity to the famous Wasgamuwa Wild Life Park, and the Thivanka Image House, the best example of Buddhist frescoes of the 11th century, which are major tourist attractions in Polonnaruwa.
With pleasing architecturural features, the hotel offers its guests a host of attractions, including bird watching, boat riding in the Parakrama Samudraya, fishing and a jungle trekking service. It also offers a taxi service to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, including the Gal Viharaya, Watadage Complex, Lanka Thilaka Viharaya and other places of tourist attraction. Hotel Seruwa is a five-hour drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport, and offers 40 air-conditioned rooms with attached bath, hot and cold water. It has an elegantly furnished restaurant and bar, and offers 24-hour room service, credit card facilities, and IDD and Fax facilities to its guests. Hotel Seruwa has become popular for company picnics, family outings and residential seminars for which the hotel has a conference hall, which could accommodate over 100 guests. The staff at Hotel Seruwa, from the humble room boy to Manager A.K. Cuttilan, was 'full of hospitality' when I visited the hotel last week. A unique feature at Seruwa is the marvellous and panoramic view of the Parakarama Samudraya from the guest rooms. The main attraction to the hotel is the ruin of the Palace of King Parakramabahu (1153-1186 A.D) called 'Vijayantha Pasada' of Sathbumupaya, the elaborate and decorated palace said to be a 7-storeyed building with 1000 rooms.
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