Asmita Mukherjee | Hyderabad 
Known for its meticulous restoration of heritage properties and intimate boutique experiences, Teardrop Hotels has carved a niche in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape, blending understated modern luxury with cultural authenticity. With over 1,200 boutique hotel rooms spread across unique locations like UNESCO heritage sites, coastal retreats, and serene tea bungalows, Teardrop Hotels is poised to captivate Indian travelers seeking immersive and personalized experiences. In an interaction with Asmita Mukheriee, Manoj Devaraj, Director of Sales, Teardrop Hotels shares insights into the brand’s plans for the Indian market.
How do you plan to cater to the preferences and expectations of Indian travellers, and what specific segments of the market (leisure, luxury, wellness) are you focusing on? What are your plans for attracting the Indian market?
We are already in touch with many travel agents in India, who have the clientele that will appreciate what Teardrop has to offer. Teardrop is a collection of intimate boutique hotels with understated modern luxury. We have been reviving and renovating historic buildings and tea estate bungalows into modern day luxury boutique hotels, each offering a unique taste of locations they are set in. We are targeting travellers who want to feel the pulse of a destination And Indian travellers have started exploring Sri Lanka beyond the usual tourist spots, and our hotels are placed in unique locations for them to experience the best of Sri Lanka, like Fort Bazaar in a UNESCO heritage site, Kumu Beach on the coast, three tea estate bungalows along The Pekoe trail, Wallawwa near the airport and more in the pipeline. We are doubling down in our efforts to build strong relationships with trade partners as well as media in India.
Could you share any upcoming expansion plans for Teardrop Hotels? Are you looking to acquire or build new properties, or partner with existing boutique hotels?
Teardrop Hotels is poised for exciting growth, our team is constantly scouring the island for hidden gems that resonate with our passion for restoration and preservation. We are drawn to properties with unique stories, rich history, and see untapped potential in them. We make sure to approach each transformation mindfully, while honouring the original structure’s sanctity and character. We will be unveiling the two new additions to our portfolio in January 2025. While we are not ready to reveal all the details just yet, rest assured that this property embodies the Teardrop essence: authentic, luxurious, and deeply rooted in Sri Lanka’s culture and beauty.
Teardrop Hotels are known for restoring heritage properties. Could you talk about the challenges and opportunities in renovating centuries-old buildings while maintaining their historical charm?
The biggest challenge is striking a balance between maintaining structural integrity and adding modern amenities while maintaining original architectural features. Moreover, finding the right contractors and skilled artisans who meet our standards. However, the opportunities after renovating these iconic buildings far outweigh the difficulties. By engaging with the local community, we not only enhance the project’s authenticity but also foster a sense of pride among residents. Sustainability has been another cornerstone of our restoration efforts, incorporating energy-efficient practices, reducing water consumption, and implementing waste reduction programs. Our approach to restoration is guided by a deep respect for Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and a commitment to environmental stewardship. We conduct thorough research on the historical and cultural context of each property, collaborating closely with local historians and cultural experts to make informed design choices. We reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy by sourcing most of our materials locally. Our goal is to create unique, culturally rich experiences for our guests while preserving the essence of these iconic buildings for future. Through our restoration efforts, we aim to promote responsible tourism and highlight the beauty of these heritage properties. At Teardrop Hotels, we believe that preserving the past is essential to shaping a brighter future.
What are the current occupancy levels at your properties in Sri Lanka?
We are currently averaging 65% throughout the year.
How does Teardrop Hotels differentiate itself from other boutique hotels in the region, and what are your USPs?
Each of our hotels, have their own story just waiting to be told while giving you a peek into Sri Lanka’s rich history, diversity, and legendary hospitality. We set ourselves apart by carefully selecting and restoring centuries-old heritage buildings and vintage tea bungalows into contemporary homes, all while maintaining their original charm. The team also curates immersive local experiences that can only be done with us. With sustainability as one of our core values, each of our properties is thoughtfully designed to give travellers an experience that reflects the different regions they are in.
Are you exploring any strategic partnerships or collaborations in India to facilitate your market entry, and if so, could you provide insight into potential partners?
As of now, our entire focus and mission is to restore and bring more such properties to guests, right here in Sri Lanka that highlight country’s history and culture.
What is your long-term vision for Teardrop Hotels, and how do you see the brand evolving over the next five to ten years, particularly with expansion into new markets?
Our goal is to create a network of unique and intimate properties that allow guests to immerse themselves in the diverse beauty and charm of Sri Lanka. Whether it is a secluded beachside retreat, a mountain bungalow, or a historic city hotel, every Teardrop property will remain true to our promise: authentic, bespoke, and deeply rooted in the soul of Sri Lanka. Our aspiration is to become the benchmark for Sri Lankan hospitality, renowned for our thoughtful approach to luxury travel and our dedication to sharing the island’s treasures with the world.
