Jungle Beach Kuchchaveli: UGA’s newest resort promising both beach and jungle

Uga Resorts steps onto the sunny beaches of Eastern Sri Lanka to deliver their newest creation: Jungle Beach. Nestled within a 10-acre estate located 23km North of Trincomalee, this luxury destination opened its doors (to the public) on 2 June. Sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and a lagoon boasting colourful bird life, this boutique promises not only pristine sandy beaches but also tropical mangroves.

Comprising of 48 spacious 650 square foot cabins crafted from indigenous materials, Jungle Beach seamlessly merges with its natural environment. Although tucked deeply within luscious foliage so as to offer utmost privacy and seclusion, each cabin offers striking views of the ocean or the lagoon, king sized beds, high-end entertainment systems, private decks and outdoor rain showers. Three of the units form a cabin cluster, complete with its own garden and private swimming pool and could lend itself to family gatherings or small group retreats.

Set in an entirely natural and harmonious blend of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated virtues – its wondrous beaches and teeming jungles, this resort has much to offer in the way of activities and excursions. Amble leisurely along miles of shoreline where the mineral beach intersects effortlessly with the sparkling blue waters of the Indian ocean, discover natural trails in the mangroves and the lagoon, relax at the Jungle Beach spa and fitness centre or glimpse village life whilst enjoying a serene boat ride on a lotus pond adorned with open bills, painted stork, moorhens and lapwings.

Bask in the happy afterglow of a day well spent in the company of one of the worlds most loved creatures: whales and dolphins. Whale and dolphin watching at Jungle Beach is an unforgettable all day experience including a picturesque boat ride across azure blue waters. The more adventurous spirit can spend the afternoon mastering traditional fishing techniques (and receiving an unconventional mud bath in the process!), snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing and parasailing.

On rare days when neither beach nor jungle beckons, the town of Trincomalee is the prefect destination. Walk through the town with its multi coloured buildings, narrow streets teeming with precocious street vendors and immerse oneself in the characteristic chaos of Sri Lanka. Visit Tiriyai, home to the oldest Buddhist temple thought to have been built during the life of Lord Buddha or watch fishermen stop briefly as they whisper a silent prayer for their safe return from Ravana’s Cleft (aka Lover’s Leap). Luxuriate in one of the seven small pools of hot water that make up the Hot Sprint of Kanniya before travelling to Koneswaram Kovil – known as the Temple of a Thousand Columns by the Portuguese and considered the site of the biggest loot of what was once the richest temple of Asia. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at the newly restored WW2 Royal Armed Forces golf course.

Let the chef and his team take you on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Chose to dine in the resort’s open-air restaurant or indulge in one of the many elegant signatures dining options such as an exclusive BBQ on the beach or dining on a private deck under the stars.

UGAs latest addition, Jungle Beach is filled with endless opportunities to be immersed in the warmth and incomparable beauty of the Indian Ocean, tropical mangroves and the unique culture of Eastern Sri Lanka. In the words of UGA Resorts Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria, “Jungle Beach promises nothing short of exclusivity, exceptional service and an unforgettable holiday experiences in an area that would be otherwise inaccessible due to its lack of hotels and resorts.”

The proud owner of two other properties Ulagalla resort, Thirapanne, which opened in July 2010, and UGA Bay, Passekudah, which commences operation in September, UGA is a fully owned subsidiary of Finco Holding. Since its inception in 1963, the group comprises several companies recording success in diverse fields.