Uga Chena Huts
Yala National Park

Deep in the south of Sri Lanka, beside the legendary Yala National Park, lies Chena Huts, part of Uga Escapes’ award-winning collection of luxury boutique hotels. This wild and wonderful lodge is tucked between undulating sand dunes and a dramatic swathe of Indian Ocean coastline, where jungle meets beach in a setting that feels raw, elemental and unforgettable.

Spread across seven acres of wilderness, Chena Huts comprises just 14 thatched, detached cabins, each one generously spaced to ensure complete privacy and immersion in nature. Though rustic from the outside, these luxurious dwellings are anything but basic. Each one includes a spacious bedroom, en-suite bathroom with a freestanding tub, separate living area and a shaded outdoor deck with a private plunge pool, in fact, this is the only all-pool resort in the region. Whether you're a couple seeking romance or a family wanting space and comfort, the cabins can be configured to suit, with extra beds available for younger guests.

Inspired by safari camps and the rhythm of the landscape, the décor is understated and organic; log furniture, subtle tribal motifs, natural fabrics and calming tones blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Every detail has been considered to reflect the lodge’s deep connection to its environment, creating a warm, earthy atmosphere that invites you to fully switch off.

Dining is a highlight at Basses, the open-air restaurant named after the nearby Great Basses Reef. Here, you’ll feast on contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh seafood with views stretching out over the ocean, or choose private dining beneath the stars, by the lagoon, on the beach or in the romantic thatched pavilion. From traditional rice and curry to stone-baked pizza, the culinary experience is thoughtful and relaxed.

Perfectly placed for wildlife lovers, Chena Huts sits minutes from the entrance to Yala National Park, home to the world’s highest concentration of leopards, and a short drive from Bundala National Park, a paradise for birdwatchers. And the wildlife doesn’t end at the park gates, elephants often wander along the beach at dusk and sea turtles nest in the sand under moonlight, making every day feel like a rare encounter.

Chena Huts is one of several distinctive properties in the Uga Escapes portfolio, a Sri Lankan brand known for thoughtful design, sensitive development and unforgettable experiences. From the laid-back coastal beauty of Uga Bay in Pasikuda and the barefoot beachside luxury of Jungle Beach in Trincomalee to the cultural immersion of Uga Ulagalla in Anuradhapura, each property reflects its unique setting, while maintaining the same commitment to sustainability, privacy and exceptional service.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus