Your Next Travel Destination: Sri Lanka

By Judy Koutsky

Africa might be the first place that comes to mind when you want to go on safari, but Sri Lanka, a tear drop-shaped island south of India has a plethora of wildlife, including elephants, leopards and sloth bears. And two sister properties—Chena Huts and Uga Ulagalla —allow for vastly different experiences within the same island.

Chena Huts, Sri Lanka

For an authentic wildlife experience, Chena Huts, which borders Yala National Park on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is the place to go. The property blends Sri Lanka’s most celebrated features—its tropical beaches and its exotic wildlife. Morning and evening game drive safaris are included in the room rate and offer guests a chance to see some of the 44 different resident mammal species, including one of the highest leopard population densities in the world. Sloth bears, elephants and more than 200 types of birds—including the peacock—can be found here. Each of the 18 villas on the nine-acre property measures more than 1,600 square feet and includes a private plunge pool, spacious living room, bedroom and en-suite bathroom with a free-standing bathtub.

Good to know: Sri Lanka has more than 800 miles of coastline (much of it is pristine beach), 15 national parks that boast an abundance of wildlife, miles of lush tea estates and botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, and a culture that extends back more than 2,500 years.

Uga Ulagalla Villa, Sri Lanka

Uga Ulagalla is the epitome of luxury. The award-winning property is nestled among reservoirs, paddy fields and lily ponds and was once the ancestral estate of Anuradhapura nobility. Here, you’ll find 25 oversized villas—measuring almost 2,000 square feet in size—each with its own private pool. The property is spread across 58 acres of land and focuses on authentic experiences, such as village cycle excursions, tuk tuk tours, horseback riding, cooking classes, kayaking and exploring the cultural sights of the region. Day trips include exploring the ancient capital Anuradhapura; wildlife safaris to witness elephants in Minneriya and leopards in Wilpattu; tours of the ancient engineering wonders like the giant reservoir Kalawewa; exploration of the ruins in Ritigala and Sigiriya Rock Fortress; and visits to archaeological and historical sites in Dambulla and Polonnaruwa. Kids can join Ulagalla’s junior ranger program, a journey of natural discovery including identifying animals and birds; learning about the importance of ecosystems and threats to wildlife, and exploring the traditional harvesting techniques of rice.

Good to Know: The property offers cooking classes with experienced chefs; guests can learn the flavors and tastes of Sri Lanka by making a traditional curry using locally sourced rice and produce from the resort’s organic garden