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SITUATED AT THE FOOTHILLS OF UDAWATTAKELLE RAINFOREST,
with
a picturesque view of the Kandy Lake, this hotel offers modern
comforts and olde world charm, within walking distance and close
proximity are some of the city's main heritage sites and cultural
centers.
The
façade, with its trailing green vines, pleases the eye.
The ground floor lobby - with its decorative Victorian floor and
wall-tiles and elaborately carved old wooden doors - warms the
heart. This area and a section of the heritage wing with its wooden
staircases are remnants of a private house, built by a wealthy
Kandyan, towards the end of the colonial era.
The
six-floored new wing overlooks the forest. You can see, on the horizon,
the magnificent Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue guarding over his world
(especially beautiful at sunset). The Deluxe air conditioned rooms
are large and tastefully decorated with reproductions of ancient
paintings on the walls to enhance the interior décor. Elegant
wooden furniture, with TV, telephone and mini bar further add to
your comfort. The standard rooms are not air conditioned but have
wide front verandas and retain the old-world charm. Most of the
rooms face the lake.
What
with the wandering verandas and corridors, grass terraces, nooks
and corners with antique seats, pages from Kandy's history adorning
the walls and many staircases, the place is a quaint blend of
the historic past and the comfortable and convenient present.
At
the back, on a large terrace, is the sparkling clean swimming
pool and a pretty fish pond. A winding path by the forest, takes
you to the herbal massage and steam bath, which is situated in
a Log Cabin.
The
main bar, is cosy and welcoming. The rooftop veranda - much like
a ship's deck - is a good place for having parties, weddings or
conferences, as an alternative to the much-used and popular main
restaurant.
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