THE INDIAN OCEAN EXPERIENCE: BEST OF SRI LANKA AND MALDIVES
The Indian Ocean Experience is for sun-seekers and adventurers alike and promises a winter escape to the breathtaking shores of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The Indian Ocean Experience, this specially crafted itinerary combines stays at several luxurious Uga Escapes properties in Sri Lanka with a finale at the eco-luxury resort Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, creating an unforgettable journey through culture, nature, and relaxation.
Kickstarting the Indian Ocean Experience: Uga Riva, Negombo
The Indian Ocean Experience begins at Uga Riva in the coastal town of Negombo, just a short drive from Colombo International Airport. Nestled in a tranquil coconut plantation, this 180-year-old restored manor provides the perfect sanctuary to ease into the journey. Located only 10 minutes from Negombo’s center, guests can enjoy poolside relaxation or explore the town’s vibrant atmosphere, with its beaches, bustling fish markets, and local seafood dining.
What not to Miss at Uga Riva as part of The Indian Ocean Experience:
- Enjoy a tuk-tuk tour around Negombo to experience Sri Lankan life up close.
- Relish traditional Sri Lankan cuisine crafted with local flavors.
- Spend time in the peaceful five-acre grounds, the perfect place to unwind after a long journey.
Discovering the Cultural Triangle: Uga Ulagalla, Anuradhapura
Next, The Indian Ocean Experience heads inland to Uga Ulagalla, situated near the historic city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Surrounded by 58 acres of lush greenery and a grand 150-year-old mansion, this award-winning resort offers the ideal base to explore cultural landmarks and natural wonders. Guests can choose from a range of adventures, from visiting the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress to witnessing gatherings of elephants at Minneriya National Park.
Top Activities at Uga Ulagalla:
- Explore Sigiriya rock fortress and learn about Sri Lanka’s ancient history.
- Visit the Elephant Research Centre, where conservation efforts for Sri Lanka’s elephants are underway.
- Embark on nature walks, take a cooking class, or enjoy kayaking on the nearby lake.
Highland Tranquility at Uga Halloowella, Hatton
Opening in 2025, Uga Halloowella will soon add a highland experience to the Uga portfolio and is part of The Indian Ocean Experience. Located in Hatton amidst the famous tea trails, this luxury property offers guests a chance to retreat into Sri Lanka’s cool, lush hills. Surrounded by sweeping tea plantations and located near the tranquil Castlereagh Reservoir, Uga Halloowella invites travelers to experience colonial-era charm combined with modern luxury.
Must-Do Activities at Uga Halloowella:
- Take a scenic hike through tea country and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
- Participate in an educational tour of a local tea factory to witness Sri Lanka’s tea-making heritage.
- Kayak in Castlereagh Reservoir’s cool waters or relax by the infinity pool overlooking tea gardens.
Jungle Adventure at Uga Chena Huts, Yala
The next stop of The Indian Ocean Experience transports guests into the wild at Uga Chena Huts, a luxurious eco-retreat bordering Yala National Park. With its 18 private cabins, each with its own plunge pool and deck, Chena Huts delivers the quintessential safari experience. Guests can embark on game drives to spot leopards, elephants, and a variety of birds, all while enjoying luxury accommodations deep within Sri Lanka’s most celebrated wildlife region.
Highlights of Uga Chena Huts:
- Take a guided safari through Yala National Park to spot Sri Lanka’s “Big Five” wildlife species.
- Relax at the private beach where turtles lay eggs by moonlight.
- Savor Sri Lankan delicacies at Basses, the resort’s on-site restaurant, with views of the surrounding jungle.
Maldives Magic at Gili Lankanfushi
After the adventure-filled days in Sri Lanka, travelers will hop on a quick 45-minute flight from Colombo to the Maldives to complete The Indian Ocean Experience in paradise at Gili Lankanfushi. Known for its iconic overwater villas, this eco-luxury resort offers an idyllic setting to unwind with the Maldivian “no news, no shoes” philosophy. Whether it’s snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs or indulging in world-class spa treatments, Gili Lankanfushi is designed to provide a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
Unmissable Experiences at Gili Lankanfushi:
- Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean with snorkeling and scuba-diving excursions.
- Enjoy the spa’s new wellness offerings, including moonbathing and elemental spa pairings.
- Savor chef Hari Govinderaj’s plant-to-plate dining experience at the Overwater Bar, featuring the freshest ingredients from the resort’s garden.
Booking and Itinerary Overview
For a journey that captures the essence of two stunning island nations, The Indian Ocean Experience is available for booking through Uga Escapes and Gili Lankanfushi, either directly or via a preferred travel agency.
Guests booking The Indian Ocean Experience offer will receive special discounts and extras including 10% off rates and complimentary resort activities at Uga properties, and 5% off rates and a complimentary 60-minute spa treatment per person at Gili Lankanfushi.
Sample Itinerary:
- Night 1: Uga Riva, Negombo, Sri Lanka
- Nights 2-4: Uga Ulagalla, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Nights 5-7: Uga Halloowella, Hatton, Sri Lanka (available from 2025 onward)
- Nights 8-9: Uga Chena Huts, Yala, Sri Lanka
- Nights 10-12+: Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Rates: Starting from $237 per night at Uga Riva and $1,440 per night at Gili Lankanfushi. Pricing varies by season and accommodation type.
The Indian Ocean Experience promises a one-of-a-kind escape for travelers looking to immerse themselves in rich culture, untouched nature, and unparalleled luxury. From Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes to the serene waters of the Maldives, this itinerary encapsulates the beauty and adventure of the Indian Ocean, ensuring an unforgettable winter sun escape.
For more information or to book, visit Uga Escapes and Gili Lankanfushi.
About Uga, Sri Lanka
Uga, the leading Sri Lankan boutique hotel group, offers an immersive experience on a heavenly island combining the comfort of luxury accommodation with the true spirit of Sri Lankan hospitality.
Featuring six iconic properties throughout scenic Sri Lanka including Uga Ulagalla in Anuradhapura, Uga Jungle Beach in Trincomalee, Uga Bay in Pasikuda, Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka’s safari hotspot, Yala, Uga Riva, a heritage-style manor house hotel in Negombo and from January 2025, the new Uga Halloowella in Hatton – Uga’s five-star choice locations cater to a wide range of travellers to Sri Lanka.
Discreet, personalised service and exceptional experiences that lead to better understanding of Sri Lankan history, culture and the local community while enjoying the wildlife, food and spectacular Sri Lankan scenery are all part of the Uga philosophy.
About Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
This award-winning eco-resort comprises 45 sumptuous overwater villas, including seven Crusoe Residences and The Private Reserve, one of the most exclusive and largest overwater villas in the world. Following the 2019 refurbishment, gazing out at the crystal-clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean from this private island has never been so luxurious.
All categories of villas and residences come with a dedicated Mr/s Friday butler service, catering for your every need. Rustic eco-design, unparalleled service, stunning natural surroundings and a laid-back luxury ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy have guests returning for more of this sustainable paradise.
Gili Lankanfushi has a hard-to-rival location: an unspoiled island in a large lagoon in the North Malé atoll, which is a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé. This iconic Maldivian island is perfectly suited for couples, families, solo travellers and groups who are bound to “arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family,” per the Gili philosophy.
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