Heritance Kandalama
In the heart of protected forest,
Modernist design with breathtaking views,
Infinity pool
Couples,
Families
The Kandalama is a luxurious hotel in a spellbinding setting: truly an architectural tour de force from Sri Lanka’s premier architect, Geoffrey Bawa.
The hotel is unobtrusive on the outside but spacious within: a testament to the brilliant design. Blending into the environs; the impact has been minimised to a degree highly unusual in a large hotel. The structure was designed so as not to affect the water flow of this natural basin. It was these and other touches which led to its being deservedly awarded a Green Globe Award for environmental sustainability in 1999, the first in the country.
Inside, an infinity swimming pool calls out across the blue reservoir, and beautiful wood-finished rooms have views of the water, jungle and, in the distance, the magnificent Sigiriya Rock.
Heritance Kandalama is perfect for travellers who appreciate a powerful blend of nature, design and culture.
If you love to explore — ancient temples, colonial-era cities and UNESCO heritage sites lie close by — yet crave a tranquil base wrapped in jungle and lake views, this hotel delivers. It also suits couples seeking romantic seclusion, families wanting space and flexibility, or anyone keen to unwind in comfort with eco-conscious luxury at their doorstep.
The location, near Dambulla, puts it right at the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, making it convenient for visits to the magnificent ancient city of Anuradhapura as well as Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and a host of other intriguing historical sites. The national parks of Minneriya, Kandulla and Wasgomuwa are also easily accessible.
The Rooms
The 162 hotel rooms wind down long peaceful stretches of corridors in-twinned with creepers and furnished with light wicker. The food is first class throughout the various restaurants, and the service friendly and very efficient.
Leaving your balcony, with its views and its monkeys, there are two more pools, a beautiful restaurant, stylish bar areas and various facilities for the sporting minded. The top rooms are the Kandalama Suites – though we recommend the deluxe Sigiriya wing jacuzzi rooms as they have beautiful views.
What You'll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in Sri Lanka
A few of our favourite routes – hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans – just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Heritance Kandalama on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
We have just returned from a two-week trip to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka – Paradise Found!
Sri Lanka is truly a gem of the Indian Ocean
The Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka
Wondering when to visit Sri Lanka? Our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka will give you a more detailed breakdown of the best time of year to book a holiday, as well as tips on the best beaches, unmissable sites, and much more.
