Empowering the lives of local communities
Local Community Engagement
At Waraka, our commitment to supporting local communities goes beyond mere words; it is ingrained in every facet of our operations. From the outset of construction, we prioritize collaboration with local communities, fostering partnerships that benefit both parties. Approximately 40-50% of our staff is sourced locally, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the economic growth of the community. This approach not only strengthens the bond between Waraka and the residents but also promotes mutual growth and prosperity.
Moreover, we extend our support to the local economy through guest experiences. We prioritize using jeeps and tuk-tuks from the community, offering our guests an authentic and immersive experience while simultaneously supporting local transportation services. By incorporating these elements into our operations, we aim to create a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall well-being of the communities in which we operate. This holistic approach reflects our deep-seated commitment to responsible tourism and sustainable development, ensuring that our presence leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the local populace.
Green Moments in Every Square
Sustainability at Thema Digital Space
There’s something special about having fresh vegetables on your plate, knowing they were picked just moments ago from the farm. 🌱
At Tea and Experience Factory by Thema Collection, enjoy fresh, organic vegetables grown in the cool, misty climate of Mandaramnuwara. And if you’re up for a little journey through the farm, join our team and experience where it all begins.
#teaandexperiencefactory #mandaramnuwara #farmtotable #organicfarming #themacollection
The 6th session of Thema Talks Season 2, “De-Seasonalising Sri Lanka: Spreading Demand without Spreading Damage,” brought together voices from across the tourism industry and academia to explore how Sri Lanka can make better use of its year-round tourism potential.
A heartfelt thank you to all the speakers who made this session meaningful:
Professor Iraj Ratnayake, Professor in Tourism at Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
Daham Rajasekara, Director / General Manager at Connaissance De Ceylan
Mizra Dane, Manager – Business Development at Exemplary Voyages
Chathura Gamage, Senior Ranger Specialist at Hilton Yala Resort
Ramitha Pathirana, Lecturer/ Head of the Department of Tourism Management at SLTC – Sri Lanka Technology Campus
Sithumi Dananjala Devindi, Senior Naturalist at Amba Yaalu – Kandalama
Umayangana Alawatte, Lecturer – Centre for Communication Skills Development at SLTC – Sri Lanka Technology Campus, for moderating the conversation.
And a special thank you to SLTC – Sri Lanka Technology Campus for collaborating with us on this session, and to everyone who joined and contributed to the discussion.
The conversation doesn`t end here. Thema Talks will be back soon with another informative session and another topic worth talking about. Until then, let`s keep the conversation going.
#thematalks #themacollection #deseasonalisation #sustainabletourism #responsibletourism
Thema Collection brings together 17 unique properties across Sri Lanka, each surrounded by its own diverse ecosystem and incredible birdlife. Whether you`re staying on the East Coast, South Coast, in the hills, or somewhere in between, chances are you`ll be waking up to the cheerful sounds of birds every morning.
And if you`re curious to learn more about the birds around you, our naturalists are always happy to join you for a walk and share their knowledge along the way.
#themacollection #birdwatching #naturetravel #ecotourism #wildlifeinsrilanka
Happening today!
The conversation on "De-Seasonalising Sri Lanka: Spreading Demand without Spreading Damage" is almost here.
Join us virtually as industry experts and academics explore how Sri Lanka can unlock its year-round tourism potential while ensuring growth remains balanced, responsible, and sustainable.
🗓️ Today | July 28, 2026
🕒 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
We look forward to welcoming you to Thema Collection`s sixth session of Thema Talks Season 2, conducted in collaboration with @sri_lanka_technology_campus.
#thematalks #themacollection #deseasonalisation #sustainabletourism #responsibletourism #srilankatourism
Every meaningful conversation starts with a question.
A few years ago, Thema Collection started Thema Talks with a simple purpose: to bring together experts, industry leaders, and changemakers to share ideas, experiences, and practical solutions for a more sustainable future.
Since then, over 50 inspiring speakers have joined the conversation, reaching thousands of curious minds through both online and in-person sessions.
And we`re just getting started.
Our 6th Thema Talks session is on its way, with a topic that`s been at the heart of many conversations lately. A conversation worth having, and one we`re excited to share with you.
Stay tuned! We`ll unveil it soon.
#thematalks #themacollection #sustainability #responsibletourism #comingsoon
Once known as the Kabaragalla Tea Factory, Tea & Experience Factory holds a beautiful little piece of Sri Lanka’s tea story. Back in 1883, at the very first tea auction, it was only Kabaragalla tea that was sold. Today, the factory has been transformed into a hotel, but its story still lives on right here at the property, in the old spaces, the tea-making legacy, and the charm that still lingers within its walls.
#teaandexperiencefactory #kabaragalla #ceylontea #teahistory #themacollection
Have you ever wondered why hundreds of wild elephants gather at Minneriya every year? 🐘🌿
It all begins with the dry season.
From July to September, the waters of the ancient Minneriya Tank gradually start to dry up, revealing fresh green grass that elephants love to feed on. One by one, herds emerge from the surrounding forests until the grasslands are home to one of the largest gatherings of wild Asian elephants anywhere in the world.
It`s not a migration, it`s nature following a rhythm that has existed for centuries.
Experience this unforgettable moment with our naturalists at Aliya Resort & Spa by Thema Collection. Go beyond the safari as they share the fascinating stories, behaviours, and conservation significance behind the Elephant Gathering, making your journey through Minneriya National Park even more meaningful.
#aliyaresortandspa #themacollection #minneriyanationalpark #elephantgathering #wildlifesrilanka
Cycle through Kalkudah and Valaichchenai, where lagoon views, fishing traditions, local flavors, and everyday village life come together with our naturalist at Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa by Thema Collection.
#maalumaalu #themacollection #eastcoastsrilanka #villageexperience #srilankatravel
