Villa Mahakanda

Introduction

With considerable architectural influence from the renowned Geoffrey Bawa, Villa Mahakanda - an unassuming bungalow, now converted to a small hotel - is a pleasing combination of the old and the new. A host of cosy living spaces together with an indoor pond and waterways running through the house keeps the Villa comfortable yet cool. The large terrace facing the beautiful mountain views is an ideal place to relax and wind down the day. Walls are adorned with art by Laki Senanayake, a famous Sri Lankan artist who is also a family friend. With rock walls that add much character, the villa is split between levels with the ground level opening out to the sprawling gardens and the upper level opening out to the spacious terrace. Villa Mahakanda is a perfect spot to take it slow after a day of exploring Kandy.

Accommodation

Villa Mahakanda has six inviting rooms, with polished cement and terracotta floors and each with a private en suite bathroom. All rooms are air-conditioned and include a writing desk, couple of sitting chairs, TV, wardrobe, tea/coffee facilities and a mini-fridge.

Room 1: This Deluxe Double room on the upper level is a comfortable size and includes a queen-sized bed as well as all amenities with an attached bathroom. No extra beds can be accommodated in this room.

Room 2: With a maximum occupancy of 2 adults and 2 children under 12 years of age or 3 adults and 1 child, the Superior Deluxe Triple room is ideal for a family. This upper-level room has a four-poster king-sized bed and an attic which contains a single bed.

Room 3: The highest category room at Villa Mahakanda, this spacious Luxury Deluxe room on the upper floor has a king-sized bed and a balcony to enjoy the views from. The ensuite bathroom comes with a bathtub and the room can hold an additional single bed to occupy three.

Room 4: Located on the ground level, this Luxury Deluxe room comes with a beautiful private plunge pool. The ensuite bathroom also has a bath tub. One extra bed can be added if required.

Room 5: This Superior Deluxe Twin room on the ground level is ideal for friends travelling together. One extra bed can be added on request.

Room 6: With a queen-sized bed, this Deluxe Double room on the ground level is a good space and comes with an attached bathroom including a shower. Additional beds cannot be added to this room.

Facilities

Villa Mahakanda has a generous-sized garden and the surrounding area is great for hiking and cycling. Rooms are equipped with flat screen TV and DVD player. There is Wi-Fi throughout the property and a small library with seating space. The bathrooms include toiletries as well as hairdryer. Meals can be enjoyed at the restaurant close to the entrance or on the spacious terrace overlooking the mountains. The menu offers a range of Western and traditional Sri Lankan dishes.

Why We Like It

Good views of the Hantane mountain range in this caring and somewhat time-warped Kandy property

Location

Located about half an hour from Kandy, Villa Mahakanda is a quiet, inviting villa about half an hour from Kandy. The drive from Colombo will take about four hours or take the train.