Chatura awarded Gold Medal
The story of Chatura and Malu Banna Watersports is nothing short of legendary—a tale of determination, vision, and boundless passion that has transformed the Bentota River into a beacon of adventure, hospitality, and Sri Lankan pride.
Chatura wasn’t content with simply casting nets—he dreamed of casting a legacy.
The Birth of Malu Banna Watersports
Chatura’s journey began on the banks of the Bentota River, where he worked alongside his father as a fisherman and uncle as watersports instructor.. The river was his playground, his classroom, and the inspiration of his future calling.
With salt in his veins and ambition in his heart, he ventured to the UAE, where he honed his skills as a diving instructor at a prestigious five-star hotel. There, he absorbed the essence of world-class “customer focussed” hospitality and returned to Sri Lanka with a strong vision that would start as a ripple and develop to a surfing wave across the Sri Lanka tourism industry.
Back in Bentota, Chatura poured his savings, soul, and sweat into building what became Malu Banna Watersports, a family-run haven for aquatic thrills and serene luxury for locals and overseas guests alike.
What started with two boats and a jetski soon blossomed into one of Sri Lanka’s longest-standing and premier activity centres, drawing thrill-seekers, families, and corporate groups from around the globe.
A Riverside Hotel That Redefines Tropical Luxury
Then came the crown jewel: a six-room luxury riverside hotel, perched elegantly above the water, each room boasting a private balcony with panoramic views of the Bentota River.
Guests could wake up to the gentle hum of boat engines and fall asleep to the lullaby of tropical nature and sea breezes straight from the adjacent Indian Ocean.
The sunsets are straight out of a travel magazine—fiery hues melting into the horizon, mirrored perfectly on the river’s surface. It’s not just a stay; it’s an experience and a sensory symphony.
Gourmet Seafood Dining with Awesome Views
The riverside restaurant is a culinary celebration of Sri Lanka’s coastal bounty. Guests, both local and international, are treated to gourmet seafood dinners, featuring the freshest catches of the day.
Imagine dining on grilled kingfish or garlic butter prawns whilst watching fishermen drifting with the wind and safari boats cruising across the water. All this under the romantic sky blush with twilight. It’s no wonder Malu Banna has become a must-visit for serious foodies and romantic couples alike.
National Recognition and Government Accolades
Chatura’s unwavering dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Both the Sri Lankan central government and local authorities have honoured him with a Certificate of Achievement and Gold Medal status, recognising his role in elevating Sri Lanka as a top-tier watersports and holiday destination.
His work is more than a business, it’s a patriotic mission, a passion to showcase his motherland to the world, a tropical and natural beauty. The real prize is seeing the faces of the guests enjoy hospitality second to none in the world.
MICE Events and Corporate Excellence
Under Chatura’s visionary leadership, Malu Banna has become the number one choice for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.
The centre regularly hosts groups of up to 450 participants, offering a seamless blend of adventure, team-building, and luxury, all in a natural wonderland.
Prestigious clients like MAS Group, Tata, Wingway, Aitkin Spence and Jetwing all chose Malu Banna for their “high class” corporate retreats, drawn by the professionalism of the team, safety standards, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Championing Inclusivity and Joy for All
In a heart-warming display of compassion and innovation, the Malu Banna team recently underwent “disability awareness training” from Palm Sail International and hosted a ground breaking event for 200 guests with various disabilities. The joy was palpable as participants experienced the thrill of a lifetime in watersports, many for the first time. The event was widely acclaimed, not just for its inclusivity but for its message: that adventure is accessible to all.
Summer 2025, a season of Expansion: A Vision Realised
Just when you think the story couldn’t get more inspiring, Summer 2025 has ushered in a new era of expansion. A state-of-the-art apartment complex and maintenance support facility has been unveiled, complete with parking for cars and buses, ensuring that Malu Banna Watersports Activity Centre can welcome even more guests with increased comfort and ease.
This development is a testament to Chatura’s forward-thinking approach and his commitment to sustainable growth. Solar electricity generation and solar heating for the hotel is just part of Chatura’ dedication to a sustainable island.
In Awe of a Legacy
Chatura’s story is one of transformation, of a boy who fished with his father and dreamed of something bigger. Today, he stands as a national icon, a hospitality trail Blaser, and a champion of Sri Lanka’s tropical paradise.
Malu Banna isn’t just a watersports centre—it’s a living, breathing tribute to what passion, family, and vision can achieve.
You are welcome to come and enjoy the delights of Malu Bana, Bentota, Sri Lanka.
www.malu-banna.com
Call now +94 777 117 400 or use the WhatsApp button
You must be logged in to post a comment.