Tucked away in the heart of Sri Lanka’s first ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura, Uga Ulagalla is a secluded, award-winning sanctuary where heritage and eco-luxury exist in perfect harmony. Set across 58 acres of verdant landscapes, this tranquil resort is centered around a beautifully restored 150-year-old mansion that once served as the home of a village chieftain.
Guests stay in one of 25 spacious private villas, each featuring its own plunge pool and views of paddy fields, tropical forest, or a peaceful lake.
Uga Ulagalla combines traditional Sri Lankan hospitality with world-class modern comforts. Guests can explore the Cultural Triangle’s remarkable heritage sites, unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments, or embark on bespoke wildlife safaris. It is a peaceful retreat designed to restore the soul while championing deep ecological sustainability.
Their story
Uga Ulagalla grew from a vision to preserve Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage while offering a refined guest experience. Its restored chieftain’s mansion reflects the resort’s philosophy of “luxury and sustainability in harmony.”
The resort works to conserve the surrounding environment, support local communities through regenerative tourism, and celebrate the island’s traditions. Its approach follows the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Guidelines and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Staff, guests, and local stakeholders actively participate in conservation and community initiatives. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The resort incorporates eco-materials throughout its design to harmonize with the surrounding nature.
- The luxurious spa features traditional wattle walls that help it blend seamlessly into the lush foliage.
- Additionally, the villas feature elegant wooden floors, combining natural materials with high-end comforts.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Uga Ulagalla employs several energy efficiency practices, including a 100% transition to LED light fittings, the use of sensors and motion detectors, and a standard set point for all air conditioning units.
- The property currently generates and maintains an average of 10% of its energy from renewable solar sources, with a target of reaching a 30% renewable share by 2030.
- The lodge regularly replaces older electrical appliances with energy-efficient models and monitors energy consumption using the Cornell Hospitality Benchmark Index.
Pioneer in waste management
- The resort manages waste and water resources with high efficiency.
- Water conservation efforts include rainwater harvesting, the use of low-flow fixtures, and on-site wastewater treatment, with treated water reused for irrigation.
- For solid waste, Uga Ulagalla actively separates waste at the source and works to reduce food waste, aiming for a landfill waste target of just 20%.
- They also prioritize minimal packaging waste through bulk purchasing and sustainable procurement policies.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Dining at the resort relies heavily on fresh, hyper-local ingredients. Uga Ulagalla features its own organic farm, from which chefs harvest fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, as well as 50 acres of paddy fields that supply traditional organic rice.
- Lake fish and free-range meats are sourced from the local community.
- Guests can experience this organic cycle firsthand through organic farm cooking demonstrations and traditional dining at the “Kamatha” restaurant, set directly in the middle of the working paddy field.
Actively protects nature and community
- The resort allocates USD 1.5 per room night to its Corporate Social Responsibility fund, focusing on the “3Ws”: Water, Wildlife, and Women.
- Water initiatives include constructing eight Reverse Osmosis plants, providing clean drinking water to over 7,460 individuals.
- For wildlife, Uga Ulagalla partnered with the Centre for Conservation and Research to establish the Elephant Research Centre, mitigating human-elephant conflict by building electric fences and conducting ecological studies.
- They also organize local plastic cleanups and donate nature textbooks to local schools.
- Regarding women’s empowerment, the resort aims to increase female employment to 20% by 2027 and actively supports local women-led businesses and educational programs.
Most Popular Activities Near Uga Ulagalla
- Organic Farm Cooking Demonstration & Lunch
- Junior Ranger Program
- Horse Riding
- Archery
- Ulagalla Scenic Drive and Ulagalla Night Drive
- Kayaking on the Wannamaduwa Reservoir
- Kayaking with Sundowners
- Nature and Night Walk
- Anuradhapura Tour (Tuk Tuk or Bicycle)
- Ritigala Monastery Excursion
- Dambulla Cave Temple Tour
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress Tour
- Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom Tour
- Aukana Buddha Visit
- Mihintale Mountain Tour
- Minneriya National Park Elephant Gathering Safari
- Wilpattu National Park Safari
- Village Bicycle Tour
- Combined Cultural Tours
- Spa and Wellness Therapies
Best Time To Visit Uga Ulagalla
- The best time to visit Uga Ulagalla is during the dry season, which runs from May to September and from December to March.
- The period between May and September is particularly spectacular, as it coincides with the world-famous “Elephant Gathering” at Minneriya National Park, where hundreds of wild elephants congregate. These dry months also provide clear skies and optimal weather for outdoor adventures.