Hotels (Commonwealth Union) _ Located within a lush 5-acre coconut plantation in Sri Lanka, near the city of Negombo and its pristine beaches, and just 25 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, the 180-year-old Uga Riva is a traditional manor house cherished by travellers seeking an upscale and distinctive leisure or business hotel property that embodies Sri Lanka’s history, scenery, and understated elegance. Acquired last year by the prestigious Uga Hotel Group, a leading Sri Lankan hotel group, the property offers a unique blend of heritage charm and modern luxury.
The main building of Uga Riva, a 19th-century seven-bedroom manor house, was once the residence of six generations of a prominent Colombo Chetty family. Restored period furniture and contemporary Sri Lankan art adorn the property, creating an ambiance that reflects its rich history. The landscape features a typical Sri Lankan courtyard surrounding a serene pond, while spacious open verandahs provide guests with ample quiet space and privacy. Adorned with intricate paintings by local artists, the antique interior of the manor house exudes rustic charm, offering deluxe accommodations that epitomize the sophistication found across Uga Hotel Group’s portfolio. Uga Riva delights guests with innovative fusion menus and authentic Sri Lankan dishes crafted from high-quality local produce.
Formerly known as the Riva Hotel, the property boasts a storied past, having hosted numerous well-known figures in the region, including Mahatma Gandhi, who planted a tree on the premises during his visit to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in 1927. Priyanjith Weerasooria, managing director of Uga Riva, expressed excitement about the property’s integration into the Uga family, emphasizing the commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and enhancing Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. Notably, recent upgrades in 2010, overseen by renowned architect Channa Daswatte, ensure that Uga Riva maintains its charm and elegance without the need for significant renovations.
