Uga Ghiri will bring design-led luxury to Sri Lanka’s Hill Country in 2026

Set in Ella’s tea-covered highlands, Uga Resorts’ upcoming boutique retreat pairs a restored manor with private villas and immersive local experiences

A new luxury retreat is set to open in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country in July 2026, with Uga Resorts expanding its portfolio into the highland town of Ella.

Uga Ghiri will offer just 15 villas, occupying a 10-acre hillside estate overlooking tea plantations and one of the region’s most recognisable landmarks, the Nine Arch Bridge. The opening follows a series of recent additions to the brand’s Sri Lankan portfolio, signalling a continued focus on smaller, design-led properties tied closely to place.

Design

At the centre of Uga Ghiri will be a restored manor house dating back to the early 20th century, now reimagined as the hotel’s main hub for dining and communal spaces. Original architectural features – including high ceilings and period detailing – have been retained, embracing the property’s plantation-era heritage.

Surrounding the manor, 15 standalone villas will be positioned across terraced hillsides, each designed to maximise views across the valley. Measuring approximately 111 square metres, the villas will include expansive glazing, private outdoor areas and jacuzzis, blending contemporary design with subtle Sri Lankan influences.

Wellness and experiences

The property’s spa will draw on Balinese wellness traditions, with treatment rooms, sauna and steam facilities oriented towards the surrounding peaks.

Experiences are expected to focus on the rhythms of the Hill Country, from tea tastings and cooking sessions to guided walks exploring local biodiversity. Guests will also have access to cycling routes and cultural sites across the wider region, positioning the hotel as both a retreat and a base for exploration.

Location

Long known for its tea plantations, cooler climate and railway heritage, Ella has increasingly attracted high-end travellers seeking a slower, nature-led alternative to Sri Lanka’s coastal resorts. Elevated viewpoints, hiking trails and landmarks such as the Nine Arch Bridge continue to define its appeal.

With rates expected to start from around US$1,200 per night, Uga Ghiri will sit at the upper end of the region’s accommodation offering when it opens in mid-2026.