A Gem in the Heart of Colombo

Waking up in one of the ITC Ratnadipa’s 352 rooms and suites is a complete sensory experience, with guests treated to the soft glow of the morning sun, the gentle scent of jasmine from the manicured gardens below, and a breathtaking ocean view from the private balcony.

Conveniently located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, a stone’s throw from the heart of the city, the hotel is an impressive sight—a sleek, modern design fused with local cultural influences. Its two gleaming towers, connected by a sky bridge suspended 100 meters above the ground, add sparkle to Colombo’s skyline, making Ratnadipa, which means “island of gems” in Sanskrit, a particularly apt name.

Following a sumptuous breakfast of international as well as Sri Lankan delicacies, all prepared using locally sourced ingredients, guests can explore the sky bridge—a remarkable feat of engineering. Infinity pools run the length of the walkway on each side, creating the illusion of swimming in the sky—an ethereal experience amid the hum of the city below.

While the hotel radiates luxury, its design philosophy is firmly rooted in a commitment to sustainability.

“With the coveted LEED Platinum Certification, our property demonstrates leadership in driving the hospitality industry towards a planet-positive future,” says Sujeet Kumar, General Manager, ITC Ratnadipa.

“Our initiatives include the elimination of single-use plastic, lighting with solar integration and timer-based controls, rainwater harvesting, and our own water-bottling plant.”

Lunch on the nearby waterfront provides a welcome opportunity to sample Colombo’s main attraction: its cuisine. Mouthwatering curries—from seafood to chicken—are the go-to choice for locals, but other delicious options include kottu roti, a popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, and meat, stir-fried with spices; and hoopers, a bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour.

The city itself is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from its Sinhalese, Tamil, Moor, and Burgher communities all contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

“Colombo has the power to stir your emotions and fill you with energy,” says Kumar. “One can find solace in the sacred Buddhist Gangaramaya temple amidst the bustling streets of Pettah, where market vendors beckon you to haggling duels.”

Returning to the hotel, the tranquility of Kaya Kalp, the Royal Spa is the perfect way to balance the bustle and energy of the city.

A range of therapies are available that blend traditional Indian wellness practices with modern techniques, and all focused on rejuvenation and relaxation. These include personalized treatments such as the ayurvedic massage, which originated in India more than 3,000 years ago and is designed to center the body's energies.

The spa’s ambiance, combined with the expertise of skilled therapists, creates a sanctuary for those seeking to revitalize their body and mind.

A sundowner at the poolside “Jala Anganaya” bar is a must, before the most important decision of the day is made: where to have dinner.

The ITC Ratnadipa boasts a number of fabulous restaurants. These include Peshawri, which takes diners on a culinary journey of India’s North-West frontier; Avartana, a fine-dining experience that combines Southern Indian dishes with a touch of local flair; Yi Jing, which specializes in Chinese delicacies such as handcrafted dim sum; and the more intimate Oyster Bar, which sets the standard for elegance.

The day ends where it began: in the comfort of your room. Whether you’re bringing a partner or your whole family, the hotel offers a range of spacious and well-appointed rooms and apartments that will live long in the memory.

The ITC Ratnadipa has created a unique environment for its guests that speaks to the aspirations and expectations of sophisticated global travelers.