Hilton’s New Yala Resort in Sri Lanka: A Nature-Focused Oasis

Hilton’s New Yala Resort in Sri Lanka: A Nature-Focused Oasis

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Hilton, the renowned global hospitality leader, has recently unveiled its newest gem, the Hilton Yala Resort. Situated on the fringes of Sri Lanka’s famed Yala National Park, this property marks Hilton’s third flagship establishment in the country. Set amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, this resort is an ideal escape for travelers yearning for adventure and relaxation.

The resort’s design is a tribute to the wonders of Yala’s natural beauty. It features 42 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas adorned with contemporary interiors in soothing neutral tones. Safari chic accents and local artworks provide a subtle touch of the locale’s essence. Expansive windows invite guests to connect with the resort's natural surroundings, which teem with diverse flora and fauna. Ground-floor rooms boast private pools ranging from eight to 16 square meters, while those on the upper level offer private hot tubs, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

Hilton Yala Resort takes its guests beyond its borders, offering an elevated and eco-conscious safari experience led by locally trained rangers. These wildlife experts tailor personalized, twice-daily game drives within Yala National Park. Each safari is not only an opportunity to witness the local wildlife but also a chance to participate in educational sessions that foster a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for the environment.

The protection of Yala’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of Hilton Yala Resort's mission. Hilton collaborates with local partners to safeguard habitats and biodiversity. An onsite animal research program has been initiated, supported by the Hilton Global Foundation. It equips rangers with cutting-edge wildlife information, technology, and tools such as solar-powered weather sensors and night vision binoculars to monitor wildlife around the resort, aiding in their protection.

Hilton Yala Resort is dedicated to contributing to both conservation and the economic well-being of the local communities. The resort actively promotes responsible tourism, and Hilton is playing a pivotal role in conserving the region ethically. In collaboration with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Hilton Yala Resort is partnering on wildlife research and exploring projects to protect wildlife across the Yala area and expand the use of locally grown produce. Moreover, they are excited to develop community education programs.

As part of Hilton’s commitment to destination stewardship and career advancement, they have established a ranger academy program in Sri Lanka. This program aims to increase the pool of qualified rangers and provide meaningful employment and conservation opportunities for the local community. Conducted by a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa-certified trainer, graduates may have the opportunity to work at Hilton Yala Resort.

Hilton Yala Resort offers three exceptional restaurants, each highlighting head chef Jerome Tissera's contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine, predominantly sourced from local ingredients. Guests can savor the flavors of Asia at Dhira, explore Western cuisine at Sandali, or enjoy cocktails and breathtaking views at Vanya. For a truly unique dining experience, venture into the wild for Lanthaaruma, an exclusive dining experience set amidst the lush jungle and the Indian Ocean's lapping waves, featuring a fully customized menu and sommelier-selected wines.

At the heart of the resort lies an outdoor pool that seamlessly blends with its  natural surroundings. The resort also boasts a fully equipped gym and a state-of-the-art spa, providing rejuvenating treatments in a beautifully designed space.

Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors, the acclaimed guest loyalty program for Hilton's 22 hotel brands. To celebrate the resort's opening, Hilton Honors members will receive 10,000 bonus points for a minimum three-night stay booked directly with Hilton before December 1, 2023.

Hilton’s Yala Resort is a nature-focused sanctuary that combines adventure and relaxation, offering guests a unique connection with the remarkable Yala National Park and its surroundings while emphasizing environmental conservation and community involvement. Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's natural wonders.


Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Unveils Reimagined Beach Villas in the Maldives

Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Unveils Reimagined Beach Villas in the Maldives

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2025

A luxurious evolution has arrived at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa with the launch of its newly reimagined Beach Villas with Pool. These elegant accommodations replace the resort’s former Beach Bungalows, bringing guests a brighter, more spacious, and stylish retreat just steps from the shoreline.

The new villas double the outdoor space to 285 sq. m. (3,068 sq. ft.), feature redesigned interiors spanning 70 sq. m. (753.5 sq. ft.), and are crafted to perfectly blend indoor comfort with the beauty of the Maldives. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and small families, each Beach Villa comfortably accommodates three adults or two adults and two children under 12.

Commenting on this final phase of the resort’s regeneration project, General Manager Didier Jardin shared, “Kuda Huraa has long been a haven for those seeking an intimate Maldivian home-from-home but we recognised the limitations of our bungalows in terms of layout, light and space. Our first ever Beach Villas embody the spirit of the island, where comfort, care, and the magic of the Maldives come together in a seamless flow.”

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What’s New:

  • Light & airy design:

    Deep wood tones have given way to sun-inspired palettes of teal, turquoise, and tangerine, evoking a fresh island vibe.

  • Smarter layout: A breezy porch leads into an ensuite bedroom with ocean-framed daybed, study, dining space, and a reconfigured walk-in closet seamlessly linked to the bathroom.

  • Upgraded outdoor living: The plunge pool has transformed into a generous 36 sq. m. (388 sq. ft.) pool oriented towards stunning ocean views. A chic pergola with a round custom swing sets the scene for relaxed lounging or eye-catching Instagram moments.

  • Elegant touches: High-end designer pieces like the B&B Italia armchair and organic architectural curves ensure the villas harmonise beautifully with their surroundings.

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Guests can also enjoy thoughtful inclusions like daily fresh fruit, Kuda Spring water, coffee and tea, twice-daily housekeeping with evening turndown, and beach essentials for children.

For a seamless start to paradise each day, the resort’s Bed & Breakfast package offers a lavish buffet breakfast at Café Huraa, included for two guests per bedroom (or more in family units), available for stays until December 20, 2026.

To be among the first to experience these stunning new villas, guests can email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com or call +960 66 00 888.


Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai Launches Monsoon Weekend Escape with Dining, Spa & Music

Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai Launches Monsoon Weekend Escape with Dining, Spa & Music

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport invites city dwellers to break free from routine and embrace the charm of the rainy season with its all-new Monsoon Weekend Escape. Exclusively available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, this package is designed to offer an indulgent and relaxing stay packed with gourmet flavours, curated experiences, and pampering touches.

Guests can start their weekend retreat with the option of a complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability. The experience continues at Ode Spa, where signature treatments come with a 30% discount, promising the perfect monsoon unwind.

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As twilight falls, head over to ARK Bar and Lounge for an hour of unlimited cocktails and hors d'oeuvres from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by an elegant Awadhi dinner at Ummrao, the hotel’s signature restaurant. The next morning, guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast at MoMo Café or opt for a relaxed in-room Continental breakfast anytime, thanks to the 24/7 service.

Saturdays are all about creating joyful family memories. The hotel’s poolside turns into a lively family zone, featuring kids’ activities and a charming Hi-Tea from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, paired with lounge music. As evening sets in, guests can experience the Saturday Serenade in the lobby from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, offering a soulful musical backdrop to their MoMo Café dinner.

Sundays begin with morning melodies from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, easing into the hotel’s Brunch Society from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at MoMo Café. With upbeat brunch beats, indulgent cuisine, and lively ambiance, it’s the perfect way to close a well-spent weekend.

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Whether you're planning a family outing, a romantic weekend, or just a break from the rains, the Monsoon Weekend Escape at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport promises an experience that’s indulgent, vibrant, and refreshingly different.


Sterling Launches Sterling GK Exotica, a Boutique Business Hotel in Dehradun

Sterling Launches Sterling GK Exotica, a Boutique Business Hotel in Dehradun

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has expanded its presence in Uttarakhand with the launch of Sterling GK Exotica, a boutique 36-key business hotel in Dehradun. Located in the heart of the city on Saharanpur Road, the hotel is Sterling’s ninth resort in Uttarakhand and second property in Dehradun, strengthening its foothold in India’s growing business-leisure travel segment.

Just five hours from Delhi NCR and six from Chandigarh, the hotel offers easy connectivity to Haridwar, Roorkee, and Saharanpur. With sweeping views of the Shivalik range and a central location, it appeals equally to corporate guests and weekend travellers.

The hotel offers four room categories from Classic Rooms to Executive Suites with double washrooms and city skyline views. Crowning the property is Skyline, the highest rooftop restaurant and bar in Dehradun, featuring Himalayan herb-infused cuisine, creative cocktails, and a panoramic 270° Shivalik view.

Event spaces include Summit, a rooftop banquet for up to 100 guests, and Mirage, a pillar-free indoor hall with a 150-seat capacity in theatre-style—both ideal for corporate events, offsites, and social gatherings.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, shared, “Sterling GK Exotica firmly establishes our base in Dehradun and strengthens our Himalayan circuit. Dehradun’s expressway growth, upgraded airport, and emerging knowledge economy make it North India’s key business-leisure node. With GK Exotica and Sterling Marbella, we offer two contrasting but complementary experiences within one city.”

Aman Bagga, Owner of Global Hospitality Pvt Ltd, added, “Partnering with Sterling was an easy decision. With their solid Uttarakhand roadmap and nationwide sales reach, GK Exotica gains immediate visibility. We aim to position this hotel as Dehradun’s urban retreat for both boardroom and leisure travellers.”

Sterling’s Uttarakhand portfolio now includes:

  • Sterling GK Exotica and Sterling Marbella in Dehradun

  • Sterling Mussoorie

  • Sterling Palm Bliss Rishikesh

  • Sterling Mantra Haridwar

  • Sterling Corbett

  • Sterling Vanvasa Lansdowne

  • Sterling Nainital

  • Sterling Kastoori Rudraprayag

Together, these properties support the brand’s ‘drive-to’ strategy, offering seamless travel options from business meetings to yoga retreats and tiger safaris, all integrated through expressway access, digital booking tools, and curated Himalayan travel circuits.

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