Uga Prāva opens in Tangalle, Sri Lanka

Uga, the boutique Sri Lankan hotel group renowned for its world-class hospitality, has opened its seventh property, Uga Prāva. We stepped inside for a closer look…

man in yoga pose next to palm tree and pool at Uga Prāva Sri Lanka

Perched along the shores of Tangalle on the south Sri Lankan coast, Uga Prāva comprises seven exclusive suites with a luxurious minimalist design, a private beach, a signature restaurant and bar and a sprawling infinity pool. An oceanfront oasis inspired by the natural beauty all around, the property promises world-class dining, healing wellness treatments and endless activities both on and off the water.

bed in hotel guestroom with large window with seaview in front of it

Image credit: Uga Prāva

Commenting on the new opening, Uga Owner and Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the first guests to Uga Prāva, the newest property in our beautiful collection of boutique Sri Lankan retreats. Nestled along one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches, the property blends contemporary minimalist design with the lush, tropical charm of its surroundings. At Uga Prāva, guests are invited to slow down, pause under the swaying palms, feel the ocean’s rhythm and share unhurried time with those who matter most. Here, the south coast’s natural beauty and Uga’s signature warmth create the perfect setting for renewal, reflection, and connection.”

The name ‘Prāva,’ derived from the Sanskrit word for coral, pravala, serves as a metaphor for the property’s identity and ethos; a holistic experience that blends sophistication with a deep respect for nature.

minimalist four poster bed in tropical boutique hotel

Image credit: Uga Prāva

The hotel offers seven luxurious ocean-facing suites, with a modern and minimalist design created to reflect the delicate beauty of the nearby coral reefs. Clean lines, neutral colours and natural materials are complimented by endless ocean views and seamlessly blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. The seven-suite property evokes the tranquillity of the ocean with a palette consisting of soft white, sandy beige and oceanic blues. Soft linens, woven rattan and natural stone textures inspired by coral are incorporated throughout the property.

All suites feature a balcony or terrace that is ideal for enjoying a spot of in-suite dining, alongside super king beds – some four poster – with sumptuous linens and large bathrooms complete with a spacious shower. Uga Prāva offers guests three categories of suites to choose from, featuring ultra-modern amenities.

Hermit Suites – inspired by the local hermit crabs that have made Prāva their home, Uga Prāva boasts two Hermit Suites, featuring ocean views and perfect seclusion for couples, families and solo travellers. The Horizon Suites – aptly named after the spectacular view of the Indian Ocean, the three spacious Horizon Suites are spaced out on three levels. Coral Suites – designed for families, with a king-size bed and two cosy single beds in its spacious layout, the Coral Suite features two separate bathrooms including an oversized bathtub for relaxation with elegant décor.

bath with a sea view

Image credit: Uga Prāva

As with all Uga resorts, the culinary experience is at the heart of Uga Prāva’s identity. The signature restaurant and bar provides indoor-outdoor all-day dining, with a spacious open-air area that invites diners to soak in the tropical ambiance and connect with the ocean beyond. Crafted to reflect the essence of Sri Lanka’s bountiful ocean and rich agricultural landscape, menus emphasise fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with dishes that take their inspiration from the vibrant ecosystem of coral reefs while championing traditional Sri Lankan flavours.

At the hotel’s spoiling treatment rooms, guests can indulge in healing wellness treatments that are inspired by the ocean’s bounty and harness the power of local herbal remedies. Private yoga and meditation sessions are available upon request, providing ample opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation in the most relaxing of settings.

restaurant table and seating with view onto lawn, pool and sea

Image credit: Uga Prāva

Uga Prāva is the ultimate base from which to explore Tangalle, one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting coastal towns. Here, ancient fishing traditions merge seamlessly with world-class surfing opportunities, captivating travellers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

The property is the newest property in the Uga collection, joining 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 Uga Halloowella in Hatton. 2026 will see the opening of an eighth property in Ella, 200km east of Colombo.

Main image credit: Uga Prāva