At the highly anticipated Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024, held to celebrate the excellence and contributions of the country’s tourism industry, Colombo by Jeep was recognized with the prestigious Innovative Experiential Product Award. This recognition is a testament to the uniqueness and creativity behind the company’s immersive tours, which offer a truly distinct way to experience the bustling capital of Colombo.
The awards ceremony, which brought together leading figures in the tourism and hospitality sectors, was organized by Sri Lanka Tourism, with the goal of acknowledging outstanding achievements that contribute to the sustainable growth and global positioning of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The event celebrated the dedication of industry pioneers and highlighted initiatives that are shaping the future of tourism in Sri Lanka.
The Story of Colombo by Jeep: A Unique Adventure
Colombo by Jeep has carved a niche in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape by offering visitors a thrilling, vintage-style journey through Colombo in classic World War II Jeeps, Vietnam War-era Jeeps, early model Land Rover Series 1 vehicles, and iconic rides like the Willy’s CJ6 and CJ8 Scrambler – both famously linked to Former US president Ronald Reagan.
The tour promises an exciting and memorable experience, combining the charm of these iconic vehicles with the vibrant history, culture, and daily life of Colombo. The open-air ride offers travelers a panoramic 360-degree view of Colombo, making it ideal for photography and unforgettable experiences. Guests enjoy an all-inclusive adventure with unlimited Lion Beer, soft drinks, bottled water, snacks, street food, entrance fees, and Wi-Fi – all on the house.
What sets Colombo by Jeep apart is not only the vintage vehicles but also the company’s focus on providing a highly personalized, intimate experience, ensuring that guests have a close connection with their guide and the city itself. The knowledgeable guides, who narrate captivating stories about Colombo’s landmarks and history, enhance the journey, making it both educational and entertaining.
The tours cover key sights such as Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, Pettah Market and the Fort Area, as well as hidden city gems like the St. Peter’s Church, Old Town Hall, Wolvendaal church and Kayman’s gate among many others. These iconic destinations come alive through the lens of history and culture, with Colombo by Jeep offering a refreshing alternative to traditional city tours.
The Visionary Behind Colombo by Jeep
At the heart of this award-winning venture is Nishantha Abeysekara, a veteran in the tourism and hospitality industry and the rebellious founder of Colombo by Jeep. Nishantha’s unwavering commitment to his values and beliefs has driven the company to become one of the most innovative tourism products in Sri Lanka today. His passion for offering unique, memorable experiences and his deep respect for Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage have made Colombo by Jeep a standout in the local tourism sector.
Despite facing numerous challenges in the tourism industry, including market shifts and global disruptions, Nishantha has remained steadfast in his mission. His resilience has finally been recognized with the Innovative Experiential Product Award, honoring his long-standing dedication to providing authentic, top-quality travel experiences that celebrate Sri Lanka’s charm and history.
A New Generation Brings Fresh Energy
The success of Colombo by Jeep is not just the result of Nishantha’s vision but also of the dynamic new energy brought in by his children, Shenelle Abeysekara and Nirvana Abeysekara Junior. Both have played pivotal roles in adding a fresh touch to the business, bringing innovative ideas and modern perspectives to the company.
Shenelle and Nirvana have infused the company with the much-needed spark to keep it vibrant and relevant in today’s fast-evolving tourism market. Their involvement in Colombo by Jeep has ensured that the business continues to evolve while retaining its core values of authenticity, adventure, and customer experience.
The contribution of this next generation of Abeysekara family members is visible in every aspect of the company—from marketing strategies to the enhancement of customer experiences—ensuring that Colombo by Jeep remains at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Receiving the Innovative Experiential Product Award at the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024 is a significant milestone for Colombo by Jeep, and a well-deserved recognition of its contributions to the Sri Lankan tourism industry. The company’s dedication to delivering exceptional and authentic experiences has not only set a new benchmark for city tours but also helped shape a new narrative around Sri Lanka as a destination for unique, immersive travel experiences.
Colombo by Jeep has consistently earned recognition from TripAdvisor, including Travellers’ Choice Awards and certificates of excellence ever since 2018 up until 2024. These accolades place it among the top 10% of attractions globally, reflecting its commitment to offering unforgettable and immersive adventures in vintage jeeps.
As Sri Lanka’s tourism sector continues to recover and grow, Colombo by Jeep stands as a shining example of innovation, resilience, and the power of family-driven entrepreneurship. With the continued leadership of Nishantha Abeysekara, supported by the energy and vision of Shenelle and Nirvana, the future of Colombo by Jeep looks as bright and exciting as the journey it offers to its guests.
This prestigious award further cements Colombo by Jeep’s position as one of the most innovative and beloved tourism products in Sri Lanka, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and history like no other.