All the charming boutique hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka that you need to stay at
It’s time to take a break from the heat and head for the hills.
Design lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful accommodations in Sri Lanka. From charming new builds and colonial refurbs in Colombo to the relaxed beach vibes of Trincomalee and eco-friendly hotels galore; there’s a little something for everyone in this diverse country. And if it’s a home in the hills you’re after, then check-in and check-out at one of the best boutique hotels in Kandy.
The best boutique hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka that we just adore
Kandy, the ancient capital of Ceylon, offers an abundance of cultural experiences, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Lankatilaka Temple, and the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. The city is also the gateway to the hill country of Sri Lanka—its lush mountain ranges are a respite from the heat. We have rounded up a collection of properties both in and outside of Kandy, offering everything from yoga and guided hikes, to cooking classes and Ayurvedic spa treatments.
1. Santani Wellness Resort & Spa
Rated as one of the best places in the world by countless magazines, Santani (main image) boasts sustainable wellness in harmony with nature. After an 1-hour drive from Kandy, you will find yourself in a minimalistic yet modern bungalow with a private balcony facing the sea of green. To enhance your physical and spiritual wellness, the resort is equipped with state-of-art hydrotherapy facilities to one of the best spa experiences in Sri Lanka.
After your massage, head to the bar for a happy hour cocktail and mingle with other guests. Dinner is anything your heart desires—from a refreshing seafood salad, the delectable egg hoppers, or a perfect steak, cooked just the way you like it. No list of boutique hotels in Kandy would be complete with this addition. It even makes our list of world’s best hotel architecture.
Find out more about Santani Wellness Resort & Spa
2. Elephant Stables Kandy
In its former life, Elephant Stables was home to an aristocratic family who kept many elephants in their garden. Now, it is a luxurious resort 10-minutes from the city centre. In addition to the usual top-notch accommodations and amenities, Elephant Stables has something that no one else does—a collection of classic cars. You can even take one of these epic beauties for a leisurely drive.
The resort also offers facilities ideal for a group or family vacation. The Living Room, a spacious hang-out, has a collection of 100 classic films and many retro board games. For some me-time, the Reading Room has a spectacular view of the Knuckles Mountains, where you can curl up with books on Sri Lankan history, wildlife, and architecture.
Find out more about Elephant Stables Kandy
3. Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa
Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa is a collection of private villas overlooking the UNESCO Natural Heritage Knuckles Mountain Range. It is an hour away from both Kandy and Dambulla, another cultural city famous for its cave temple complex. After a day of exploring ancient sights, enjoy a luxurious Ayurvedic treatment or partake in a relaxing yoga class with the in-house yogi. Then, head to the restaurant famous for its tantalizing selection of international cuisine with a Sri Lankan flair. The best thing about this property is the outdoor 4-person jacuzzi in each villa—a perfect spot for a nightcap after a day of adventures. A list of the best boutique hotels in Kandy would not be complete without this gem.
Find out more about Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa
4. Coffee Bungalow Kandy
A picturesque destination within the city, Coffee Bungalow Kandy is a time capsule with modern amenities. The original manor was built in 1860 and was the residence of a British coffee planter. It has been restored, preserved, and enhanced by Channa Daswatte, an architect trained in the tradition of Geoffrey Bawa.
The décor is a blend of nostalgic colonial history and contemporary comfort. Our favourite part of the resort, other than its incredible architectural history, is the 14-meter long infinity pool— a front-row seat with the panoramic view of the stunning temples and mountains.
Find out more about Coffee Bungalow Kandy
5. Stone House Kandy
The Stone House Kandy is a colonial-style mansion, a hideaway near many of the local attractions. You can start your day with a walk in the beautiful garden and a quick dip in the pool. Take a break between sights for an afternoon tea that consists of various sweet and savoury morsels accompanied by the famous Ceylon Tea. At night, pamper yourself in your room—our favourite is the Thamba suite, decorated with antique furniture and 19th century lithographs. You can unwind with a bath powered by Jacuzzi while listening to your favourite tunes streaming from the BOSE iPhone dock.
Find out more about Stone House Kandy
6. Helga’s Folly
Helga’s Folly is an idiosyncratic chalet owned by Helga De Silva Blow Perea, a former Dior model and probably one of the most fascinating women in Sri Lanka. Helga fills her house with treasured Sri Lankan and Dutch heirlooms mixed with pieces acquired from the local market and toy shops. Its walls are painted with colourful artwork from floor to ceiling. The result is a bizarre yet dazzling visual experience. Also, be sure to visit the pool said to be: surrounded by jungle and guarded by fairies, and try their gluten-free biryani. If you are lucky, you might even bump into the visionary woman who created it all.
Learn more about Helga’s Folly
7. The Kandy Samadhi Centre
The Kandy Samadhi Centre, about a 30-minute drive from Kandy, is an eclectic paradise created by the enigmatic Waruna, an antiques dealer and self-taught architect. Each pavilion on the property has a unique look and feel, furnished by beautiful period pieces. We recommend a guided tour to see the stunning grounds teeming with life— you might spot the resident grey hornbill or a purple-faced langur.
Take a short hike to the nearby waterfall—a chilled-out spot for a swim and a picnic. Samadhi also has an outstanding Sri Lankan menu. All curries and dahl are cooked in the traditional fire stove and fresh vegetables and herbs are picked from their garden. Want to cook like a Sri Lankan? Sign up for a class and learn how to make a mean chicken curry.
Find out more about The Kandy Samadhi Centre
8. The Kandy House
If you’re looking for more of a private experience while you’re in Kansy, then you need to make a beeline for The Kandy House. This ancestral manor home was built in the Moorish and Dutch styles by the last last Chief Minister of the Kandyan kingdom.
Inside, you’ll discover nine exceptionally designed rooms that blend original features with all the mod-cons. Spend time in the infinity pool, that overlooks the beautiful paddy fields, before indulging in authentic curries crafted from local ingredients. Treat yourself to a massage and join one of the yoga sessions, or just switch off and relax in the magical surroundings.
The property can be booked as a whole for groups, with all ages from 12 years-old welcome
Discover more about The Kandy House
9. Kings Pavilion
Nestled in the misty mountains, Kings Pavilions will transport you another time and place altogether. Enjoy modern luxe vibes here with exceptionally personalised service and panoramic views of the lush surroundings.
Rooms and Suites have a rustic aesthetic and include four-post beds, antique furnishings, and some even have Jacuzzis for the ultimate relaxation. The onsite restaurant crafts local dishes from seasonal fare to be enjoyed with a backdrop of Hunnasgiriya Mountain.
Learn more about Kings Pavilion
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