Nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by serene lakes at the heart of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, Heritance Kandalama Hotel is a true haven for travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. As I ventured into this luxurious abode, I was captivated by its unmatched beauty and charm and my stay was nothing short of a blissful retreat.
Arrival at Heritance Kandalama Hotel: A Gateway to Paradise
My journey to Heritance Kandalama Hotel began with a warm welcome from the friendly staff. The hotel, perched on a rocky outcrop between two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Sigiriya and Dambulla, makes it an ideal gateway to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
I was awe-struck as I entered the lobby, by the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forests, lakes and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the distance. The hotel’s unique architecture, designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, creating a harmonious fusion of modern design and ancient heritage.
Accommodation: A Haven of Comfort and Elegance
The accommodation at Heritance Kandalama Hotel is nothing short of a luxurious retreat. It houses 52 superior rooms, 22 panoramic rooms, 30 luxury rooms, 3 luxury panoramic rooms, 30 deluxe rooms, 12 suites, 2 luxury suites and 1 royal suite.
With 152 well-equipped rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, I was spoilt for choice. From deluxe rooms to suites, every room boasted of contemporary amenities and elegant furnishings, ensuring a comfortable stay.
I chose to stay in one of the Deluxe Rooms and I was impressed by its spaciousness, modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the lush greenery. The room featured a comfortable king-sized bed, a seating area, a private balcony and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with all the essential toiletries. The in-room amenities, including a flat-screen TV, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi, added to the convenience and comfort of my stay.
Dining at Heritance Kandalama Hotel: A Gastronomic Delight
Heritance Kandalama Hotel is a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts, with a range of dining options that cater to every palate. I had the pleasure of indulging in some of the most delectable dishes during my stay.
The Kanchana Restaurant, the main dining area overlooking the serene Kandalama Lake, offers a lavish buffet spread for breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring a wide variety of local and international cuisines. I enjoyed the dinner most, whilst listening to sweet flute melodies.
The Kaludiya Restaurant on the 7th floor offers the best of fusion cuisine showcasing flavours and aromas around the world. The restaurant’s rustic ambience and attentive service are made for a truly memorable dining experience.
One of the highlights of my stay was the candle lit cave dinner. The ambience was nothing short of great with flickering flames, flute melodies and gourmet dishes. It was a truly magical and romantic affair and the attention to detail and impeccable service left me in awe.
Heritance Kandalama Hotel Review
Rejuvenation and Relaxation: Wellness at Heritance Kandalama Hotel
Heritance Kandalama Hotel offers a serene sanctuary for wellness and relaxation. The Six Senses Spa, located within the hotel premises, is a haven of tranquillity, offering a range of holistic treatments that rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. You can pick from their spa packages Romantic Escape, Coco Bliss, De-Stress, Sensation Spa Journey and Heritance Wellness Ritual. The spa’s serene ambience, skilled therapists and use of natural, locally-sourced ingredients are made for a truly holistic wellness experience.
In addition to the spa, Heritance Kandalama Hotel also boasts of a well-equipped fitness centre with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The hotel also has two swimming pools, including an infinity pool that seemingly merges with the Kandalama Lake, providing a stunning backdrop for a refreshing swim.
Exploring the Surroundings: Nature and Culture at their Best
One of the best things about Heritance Kandalama Hotel is its location that gives you an opportunity to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka. The hotel provides easy access to popular tourist attractions, including the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temples, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the ‘Lion Rock,’ is a fascinating ancient rock fortress that dates back to the 5th century.
The Dambulla Cave Temples, also known as the ‘Golden Temple,’ are a complex of five caves adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of Lord Buddha.
The hotel arranges excursions such as jungle trekking to Kandalama Rock, mountain bike tours, bird watching tours and hot air balloon rides.
Hospitality and Service: Exemplary and Personalised
What truly sets Heritance Kandalama Hotel apart is its exemplary hospitality and personalised service. From the warm welcome at the reception to the attentive service at the restaurants and spa, every member of the hotel’s staff went above and beyond to ensure that my stay was comfortable and memorable.
The staff’s attention to detail and genuine warmth made me feel like a valued guest and I was impressed by their knowledge and passion for the local culture and heritage.
Heritance Kandalama Hotel also takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. The hotel has won numerous awards for its eco-friendly practices and community initiatives, including its efforts to conserve energy, reduce waste and support the local community. It was heartening to see a hotel that cares about the environment and the local community and I was proud to support their sustainable efforts during my stay.
My stay at Heritance Kandalama Hotel was a journey of serenity and splendour. From the stunning natural surroundings and unique architecture to the luxurious accommodation and exceptional hospitality, every aspect of my stay was truly memorable.
As I bid farewell to Heritance Kandalama Hotel, I left with cherished memories of a blissful retreat that immersed me in the natural and cultural wonders.
