Reviews of Heritance Kandalama 5 stars
P.O Box 11, Heritance Kandalama, 21100 Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
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Reviewed: 3 September 2025 · Stayed in September 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 2 September 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewI was here for Bawa's architecture - every aspect of the hotel's design and styling is superb, down to every detail of the bedrooms, the fact that they all have a great view, but are not overlooked, and the way the the hotel and the countryside (trees, rocks) merge into one. The food is good - but international
Staff could have been better-informed about the facilities and were rather intrusively asking every few minutes whether everything was OK. It is an international hotel - most guests are foreigners, and this is reflected in the food. It seems a shame that a hotel that is so Sri Lankan's default dining option is a large multi-national buffet. The small fine dining restaurant serves good food but has no atmosphere as very few people eat in it.
Reviewed: 1 September 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewA true architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of the jungle. The views are breathtaking, and the room was incredibly charming. An exceptional experience, surrounded by wildlife, simply unforgettable.
Everything was absolutely perfect, only the restaurant could get a little noisy, but the food was delicious.
Reviewed: 30 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewAbsolutely stunning place! Highly recommended for visiting and relaxing in such a beautiful location.
Dear Aleksandra,. We’re so pleased to hear you found our place stunning and felt this is the ideal spot to enjoy and relax. Your heartfelt recommendation is something we truly value, and we’ll be very happy to welcome you back whenever you return. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Aleksandra,. We’re so pleased to hear you found our place stunning and felt this is the ideal spot to enjoy and relax. Your heartfelt recommendation is something we truly value, and we’ll be very happy to welcome you back whenever you … Show more
Reviewed: 30 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewBeautiful view, perfect architecture, well designed rooms and bathrooms, infinity pools and monkeys :)
Dear Harzem …..It’s a joy to know you appreciated the views, architecture, and the care that went into designing the rooms and pools. And yes, the monkeys do love making an appearance and making their presence known. We’re glad they added some excitement to your experience. We’ll be glad to welcome you back for more of it. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Harzem …..It’s a joy to know you appreciated the views, architecture, and the care that went into designing the rooms and pools. And yes, the monkeys do love making an appearance and making their presence known. We’re glad they added s… Show more
Reviewed: 30 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 29 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 28 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewHeritance Kandalama is a truly exceptional property, seamlessly woven into its natural surroundings with breathtaking views of the lake and forest. The Bawa architecture is striking and thoughtfully designed, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere throughout. Our room was both comfortable and impeccably maintained, and the pools and shared spaces were nothing short of spectacular. Each evening offered a magical experience as the sun set over the lake—a view that’s hard to forget. Lucky enough to see three elephants walk past the property for an evening stroll to the lake. The staff—from reception to room service and wait staff—were outstanding: warm, attentive, and genuinely kind. Their hospitality made us feel truly cared for. And of course, the cheeky monkey visitors added a playful touch to the experience, working hard to keep us entertained! All in all, it was a peaceful and unforgettable stay. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking tranquillity, nature, and a touch of luxury in a uniquely beautiful setting.
Dear Justine, … We’re thrilled that Heritance Kandalama felt like such a peaceful and enchanting escape for you. From the stunning Bawa architecture to the lake, forest, and playful monkeys, it sounds like every corner of the property added something special to your stay. Seeing elephants strolling by in the evening must have been magical. It’s wonderful to know that your room, the pools, shared spaces, and the team’s care made you feel truly looked after. Your kind words will mean so much to everyone here. We’d love to welcome you back for more moments surrounded by nature, tranquility, and the little surprises that make this place so unique. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Justine, … We’re thrilled that Heritance Kandalama felt like such a peaceful and enchanting escape for you. From the stunning Bawa architecture to the lake, forest, and playful monkeys, it sounds like every corner of the property added… Show more
Reviewed: 28 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 27 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewNature tours and amazing architecture.
Dear Zhan,…. It’s wonderful to know the harmony of nature and architecture at Heritance Kandalama left a mark on your stay. From the lush surroundings to the design that blends with the landscape, we’re glad you could experience it all. We would be delighted to welcome you back for another immersive stay. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Zhan,…. It’s wonderful to know the harmony of nature and architecture at Heritance Kandalama left a mark on your stay. From the lush surroundings to the design that blends with the landscape, we’re glad you could experience it all. We … Show more
Reviewed: 26 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 25 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewWe had an amazing stay at this hotel. All the staff greeted us with a smile and were very friendly. We enjoyed the buffet with lots of options to pick from. The location of the hotel is in the middle of nature with a beautiful view of Sigiriya Rock and many animals including monkeys and wild elephants to see! We enjoyed so much that we wished we could stay longer!
Dear Sachi,… It’s wonderful to hear how much you enjoyed your time with us. Knowing that the team’s smiles, the variety at the buffet, and the setting surrounded by wildlife made your stay so enjoyable truly means a lot. Spotting elephants and monkeys with Sigiriya Rock in the backdrop is an experience not many places can offer, and we’re glad you could take it all in. We’ll be happy to welcome you back for a longer visit anytime. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Sachi,… It’s wonderful to hear how much you enjoyed your time with us. Knowing that the team’s smiles, the variety at the buffet, and the setting surrounded by wildlife made your stay so enjoyable truly means a lot. Spotting elephants… Show more
Reviewed: 24 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewBeautiful location with view on Kandalama lake and forest, nice room and buffet either for dinner and breakfast is really good. Access to three pools also. Staff very kind and present. 9/10 mainly thanks to location and food, otherwise 8-8.5/10 would be the right note for this hotel that is 5*.
some details: There wasn't the hair conditioner which we would have expected from a 5 stars hotel. A plates of fruits was offered once in the room (really appreciated) but brought with only one dish and cutlerie and we were 2. The room was noisy due to the fact that it was directly on a corridor used by everyone to access rooms. Also the fan was a bit noisy
Dear Ale,… We’re delighted you enjoyed the setting by Kandalama Lake, the dining experiences, and the comfort of our pools. Your kind words about the team are also much appreciated. We’re very sorry for the oversight in placing only one plate and cutlery, and for the inconvenience caused by noise from the corridor and the fan. These details should not have been overlooked, and we will attend to them with care. We also take note of your feedback on in-room amenities. It was a pleasure to have you with us, and we look forward to welcoming you back for a stay that is truly restful in every way. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Ale,… We’re delighted you enjoyed the setting by Kandalama Lake, the dining experiences, and the comfort of our pools. Your kind words about the team are also much appreciated. We’re very sorry for the oversight in placing only one pla… Show more
Reviewed: 23 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewSuperb architecture and design. Very lovely staff and superb location. The breakfast and dining room views were fabulous. Totally surrounded by nature and the hotel was unobtrusive in the setting. Breakfast was fantastic!
Our room was noisy until after midnight. When there are functions there, guests should occupy rooms in a different location. It’s a huge hotel and rooms available in other parts away from the noise.
Dear Sue, …. Your words of appreciation for our architecture, setting, food, and team truly touched us. To know that you enjoyed the breakfast with its views and felt the spirit of the surroundings means a great deal. Our colleagues will be encouraged by your kind recognition, and we thank you from the heart for noticing the warmth and care they bring to their work. We are, however, deeply sorry for the disturbance you experienced due to noise at night. You are right, when functions are hosted, rooms away from those areas should be offered, and we do our best to keep events within a reasonable time and sound levels. Even with these efforts, there can be lapses, and we regret that this affected your stay. Your genuine appreciation for what makes Kandalama special despite this is something we value greatly. We truly look forward to welcoming you again, and next time, we will make every effort to ensure your stay is peaceful and filled with all the beauty and comfort you expect. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Sue, …. Your words of appreciation for our architecture, setting, food, and team truly touched us. To know that you enjoyed the breakfast with its views and felt the spirit of the surroundings means a great deal. Our colleagues will be… Show more
Reviewed: 23 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 22 August 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 19 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewKandalama is beautiful! We loved the setting and felt very relaxed being in nature. The hotel itself is beautifully designed, covered in vines and it was fairly conveniently located to Sigiriya and Dambulla. We also enjoyed the food and the pool is a wonderful place to relax with a cocktail after climbing Sigiriya and Pidurangala.
While the staff were all very friendly, the service was a little slow at times (e.g. it took 10-15 mins to get water after we asked for some)
Dear Alexandria,…. It’s a pleasure to know you enjoyed the beauty of Heritance Kandalama, the atmosphere of being close to nature, and the design of the hotel. We’re glad the food and the pool added to your time here, especially after your climbs to Sigiriya and Pidurangala. We appreciate your comments about the pace of service. While we’re happy you found our team warm and friendly, your feedback is very important, and we will use it to ensure our service matches the standards of excellence we strive for. Thank you for your kind feedback, we hope to welcome you once again for another relaxing stay in the future. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Alexandria,…. It’s a pleasure to know you enjoyed the beauty of Heritance Kandalama, the atmosphere of being close to nature, and the design of the hotel. We’re glad the food and the pool added to your time here, especially after your … Show more
Reviewed: 19 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewArchitecture that really works. A simple concept of openness to nature, the cliff, the jungle and the wind. Great views and great pools. At the same time as all of this, it was unpretentious, comfortable and classy.
Nothing
Dear Charlotte,…. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the seamless blend of architecture and nature, the views, and the pools. The sense of openness you mentioned showcases the atmosphere and feeling we hope every guest experiences. Your kind words are much appreciated, and it was a pleasure having you with us. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Charlotte,…. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the seamless blend of architecture and nature, the views, and the pools. The sense of openness you mentioned showcases the atmosphere and feeling we hope every guest experiences. Your kind w… Show more
Reviewed: 18 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewExceptional property by a renowned architect. Very well looked after but that’s reflected in the price.
Nothing really
Dear David, … It’s a pleasure to hear that you valued the architecture and the care that goes into maintaining the property. Geoffrey Bawa’s design is indeed a treasure, and we’re glad it resonated with you. Your encouraging words are appreciated, as they help us balance the quality of upkeep with guest expectations. We’re pleased that everything worked out well for you, and we look forward to welcoming you again. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear David, … It’s a pleasure to hear that you valued the architecture and the care that goes into maintaining the property. Geoffrey Bawa’s design is indeed a treasure, and we’re glad it resonated with you. Your encouraging words are appre… Show more
Reviewed: 18 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewBeautiful Bawa designed hotel in Sigiriya
Needs some love and care and a bit of a refresh. Would have been absolutely sensational back in its day!
Dear Fleur, … We’re delighted you appreciated the beauty of our Bawa-designed Heritance Kandalama. His architectural vision continues to give the hotel its distinctive charm. We also take note of your feedback regarding areas that could benefit from added care and a refresh. Your perspective is valuable as we work on maintaining the spirit of the hotel while enhancing its comfort for today’s guests. We hope to have the chance to welcome you back again. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Fleur, … We’re delighted you appreciated the beauty of our Bawa-designed Heritance Kandalama. His architectural vision continues to give the hotel its distinctive charm. We also take note of your feedback regarding areas that could be… Show more
Reviewed: 17 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewSplendid. Just impressive and in a very nice area.
The place where you dine is too cold and noisy.
Dear Sebastien, …. We’re glad you found the setting of our hotel so impressive and enjoyed the beauty of the area. Your comment regarding the dining space is very helpful—we understand how both temperature and atmosphere can affect the experience, and we will look into ways to make it more comfortable. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and we look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Sebastien, …. We’re glad you found the setting of our hotel so impressive and enjoyed the beauty of the area. Your comment regarding the dining space is very helpful—we understand how both temperature and atmosphere can affect the expe… Show more
Reviewed: 16 August 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewEverything. Very environment friendly. Staff very happy and friendly
NA
Dear Bodimaluwe, … We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed every aspect of your stay and appreciated our efforts to remain environmentally conscious. It’s wonderful to know that the friendliness and happiness of our team made a positive impression as well. We look forward to welcoming you back for another visit in pleasant surroundings. Warm regards, General Manager
Dear Bodimaluwe, … We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed every aspect of your stay and appreciated our efforts to remain environmentally conscious. It’s wonderful to know that the friendliness and happiness of our team made a positive imp… Show more
Reviewed: 15 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 12 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 12 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewDesign and connection to nature and biodiversity
I think the wood in the showers will need to be replaced.
Dear Hemantha,….Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. It’s lovely to know you enjoyed the design and the way our surroundings connect with nature. We’re grateful for your feedback on the shower wood, it’s a helpful reminder, and upgrades are already planned. We look forward to welcoming you back to see the changes. Warm Regards, General Manager
Dear Hemantha,….Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. It’s lovely to know you enjoyed the design and the way our surroundings connect with nature. We’re grateful for your feedback on the shower wood, it’s a helpful reminder, and upgr… Show more