Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This smart modern converted villa offers comfort and space and is within a short stroll of
the caves and museum. Staff are attentive and the rooms are kept clean and well-presented,
the best sharing a terrace which overlooks a slim garden. Two 'deluxe' dorms (one is a
four-bed female-only option) have recently been added, embracing the backpacker market.
It's a good place, but perhaps not the best value, as prices are a tad steep across the
board. All rates include breakfast.
Dambulla Heritage Resthouse
HOTEL
70/82; )
This former government rest house has been given the full Heritage treatment, and now
boasts very classy interiors - the dark-wood furniture and elegant fabrics make more than
a nod to colonial times. There's a great cafe-restaurant too. But, and this is a considerable
but, it's close to the dreaded highway and traffic noise is omnipresent.
Arika Boutique Villa
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
( 493 5045;
www.arikavillas.com
;Puwakattawala Road;r from US$72; )
A small hip hotel with spacious, stylish rooms with a nice blend of natural materials and a
splash of contemporary art on the walls. It's 12km south of Dambulla, just off the Kandy
Rd.
Kalundewa Retreat
HOTEL
( 077 307 6341;
www.kalundewaretreat.com
;r from US$144; )
The attention to detail at Kalundewa Retreat is impressive with a stunning range of accom-
modation units that feature polished-concrete floors, modern art and stylish wooden fur-
niture; some have lovely arched roofs and private jacuzzis. The forest setting, lake, paddy
fields, birdsong and undisturbed natural environment adds up to a wonderful experience.
Hiking, biking, birding (with a resident ornithologist), bathing (in a spring-fed pool) and
kayaking on the lake can be arranged and there's lots of wildlife around the hotel (includ-
ing peacocks and monitor lizards). Service and meals are excellent too, but note that no al-
cohol is sold (guests can BYO though). It's 7km east of Dambulla.
