Overlooking 10 acres of terraced hillside, Uga Resorts has opened a new boutique retreat in the highlands of Ella, Sri Lanka.
The retreat, named Uga Ghiri, is the brand’s third opening in just over two years, following Uga Halloowella and Uga Prāva.
Uga Ghiri occupied 11 acres of terraced hillside in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, with panoramic views across valleys and peaks, including views of Ella’s Nine Arch Bridge. The bridge was completed in 1919 and was built entirely of brick and stone. It is one of the country’s most recognisable landmarks. Guests can watch the daily passage of mountain trains from the resort.
The property carried a sense of history throughout and blended 21st-century comforts with the estate’s original character.
Uga Ghiri’s main house was positioned at the centre of the estate, standing as a restored manor. It was characterised by high ceilings and preserved architectural details. The manor provided a space that balanced historic charm with contemporary hospitality.
The refurbished resort, with its historic charm, featured 15 standalone villas, each designed as a private retreat. The villas spanned approximately 1,200 square feet and combined contemporary design with subtle Sri Lankan influences that reflected the island’s heritage. Every villa included expansive windows framing the Hill Country views, along with a private jacuzzi.
Uga Ghiri’s restaurant was set within a colonial manor and embraced its old-world charm. Menus featured international and local favourites. The bar had a well-curated collection of beers, wines, and spirits, and the classic pool table was permanently set up for a game.
Experiences at the resort included its spa, which combined ancient Balinese wellness traditions with the resort's highland calm. It featured two treatment rooms, a sauna and a steam room, all overlooking Ella’s peaks.
At the estate, guests could enjoy a range of immersive experiences, including the artisanal tea experience, the Namunukula Descent (Cycling Experience), Hiking the Pekoe Trail (Stage 16), and The Path of Sacred Shrines (Mindful Tea Plantation Walk).
Uga Resorts, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Marcelline Paul, said the opening of Uga Ghiri was a defining moment for Uga Resorts.
“It is a natural fit within our ultra-luxury boutique collection built on privacy, a deep connection to place and genuine peace,” explained Paul.
“Ella holds a unique position within Sri Lanka's Hill Country, and this opening lets us share that setting with our guests in a way that feels entirely true to who we are.”
The opening arrived as Uga Resorts introduced a new two-tier structure across its portfolio, distinguishing an ultra-luxury boutique collection from a premium lifestyle collection.
Uga Ghiri joined Uga Riva, Uga Ulagalla, Uga Halloowella, Uga Chena Huts and Uga Prāva within the ultra-luxury boutique tier, each defined by privacy, elevated dining and immersive wildlife and cultural experiences.
