Overview
Leave the cultural hubbub of Kandy and just 15 minutes away is a private house, overlooking the city and from the misty Hunus Falls to the Knuckles mountains on the horizon. The hedge-lined stony path to the plateau and lodge which dates back to the 1940s, once belonged to Asoka Ratwatta, who first opened his ancestral home to guests. In 2013, the house was sold to a new management, who did a complete refurbishment enhancing the luxury comforts to guests
The teak-ceilinged lounge and dining room are full of beautiful antiques but the Chesterfield sofas invite you to curl up with a book from the library.
The long stone foyer opens out on to the well-manicured and brightly coloured Hibiscus Gardens and overlooks Kandy's popular Rugby Club and valleys. Take a hike into the countryside, admire the many cultural sites of Kandy or just take "˜time out' at this haven. Watch the resident mongoose scurry around the garden pond and bamboo shoots and the flying squirrels nesting in the trees by night against the starry skies and full moon.
Rooms
Three rooms are available downstairs each with its own character. The décor, flooring, of each room, reflect the names of the rooms, Duburu, Sudu, and Ran.
Take the teak staircase to the upper floor and there are 2 Suites. The Thamba Suite is very spacious and enjoy a relaxing aperitif and step out from the French windows into a secluded upper-level garden, overlooking Hunasigiri Range. This suite has an open concept bathroom with a bath tub. An additional bed can be arranged on request.
The Kalu Suite is unique with its kithul wood flooring, and large bathroom with a Jacuzzi. This is the most expensive room and ideal for honeymooners.
Dining
Chef will cook to your tastes and has lots of Western and local favourites. Fresh fish, pasta al dente, traditional rice and curry or just plates of toast and jam if that takes your fancy! We enjoyed a scrumptious tuna niçoise for lunch and fresh juices.
For dinner we chose the rice and lamb curry, bitter gourd (commonly known as snake gourd and reminiscent of courgette), green beans, pumpkin in coconut milk and a hearty tomato salad sprinkled with baby fish (like whitebait). For dessert we devoured a huge bowl of buffalo curd and treacle AND fresh fruit.
Breakfast is when you wake and a choice of continental or Sri Lankan specialities like hoppers, dhal, and fresh bread.
A small section of good imported wines and beer are available, plus spirits, so long-staying wine buffs can put in a request to Asoka so they are prepared.
Kandy has many super eateries if you desire a change.
Things to do & local tips
- Drivers and tuk-tuks can be arranged for local sight-seeing or city transfers - Botanical Gardens, Craft centres, mountain range etc.
- The energetic can take a 30-minute stroll into Kandy centre to explore the cultural centres, boating on the lake or the many antique shops. You may opt for a tuk-tuk for the return as it's quite a climb - expect to pay about Rs300.
- Long-staying guests may receive an invitation to Asoka's mountain lodge
- Victoria Golf Club and the stunning Victoria Dam are just 20-minutes drive away
- Horse riding is available in Kandy and run by a British ex-pat. However, the excitable Mawa horses (Indian thoroughbred racing breed) take some handling. The tack hasn't seen saddle soap in a long time so a tough and experienced seat is needed all round
For recommendations on restaurants, places of interest, activities and local transport in Kandy, click here.