5-Star Hotels in Central Province, Sri Lanka

The Hotel locationis excellent. its on hill and views are amazing. Food was good only issue we had was during checkout when no one was available to get the luggage from room . Its 2nd floor with no lift.

Amba Yaalu — A Second Home for Soulful Rejuvenation My first stay at Amba Yaalu by Thema Collection was pure discovery. I came out of curiosity—wanting to experience, for the first time, the novelty and energy of a women-led resort. I left enchanted. But this second visit felt different—more intentional, more existential. I rebooked to continue my solo quest for soulful rejuvenation, tranquility, and serenity—the kind of restorative pause that leaves you resettled for the life you love, yet must return to: a job and day-to-day that asks a great deal. From the moment I arrived, I was beautifully cared for. The à la carte dining—with both Western and Sri Lankan options—did more than simply nourish my body. It re-ignited my appetite in the most genuine way. I ate with joy and intention, and somehow it even made me feel lighter and steadier within myself. I also took a private cookery lesson with the chef, and it was unforgettable. I didn’t just leave with a chef’s hat and a printed recipe book—I left with real skills, spice knowledge, and techniques I can bring home. I can already see myself sharing this with my colleagues, my friends, and of course my beloved family. And yes—I even had to tease the chef, because I loved her food so much that this post-menopausal woman ate so well that my cholesterol and blood pressure readings came down…and I genuinely started to develop a “food baby”. 😂😂😂 Finally, to the management and leadership: as an educator in ancient history, I know great women when I meet them—Helen of Troy, Cleopatra… and beyond. At Amba Yaalu, the leadership feels like that same kind of powerful grace. It isn’t only about running a beautiful resort—it’s about building something that matters. To Amba Yaalu and everyone who made this stay feel like a true haven: thank you for giving me a serenity I could feel in my bones—and a renewed strength for what comes next.

I absolutely loved this hotel! The location was great, and the views were nice. I only wish I could have stayed longer to enjoy more of the peaceful atmosphere. My room was cozy and relaxing, and I especially loved the bathtub which was perfect for unwinding after a long day. The infinity pool was another highlight with gorgeous ocean views, though it was a bit on the cool side. I do wish it had been heated, but it was still a beautiful spot to relax. Room service was great too! Good selection and reasonably priced for a hotel. Cons: On my last day, I treated myself to a 90-minute aromatherapy massage at the spa. Unfortunately, I’d rate the spa a 5/10. Living in Thailand has definitely spoiled me with incredible massages, so I admit my standards are high! Still, I think the spa could use a bit of a refresh. The rooms smelled a bit old and weren’t very visually appealing. It was also quite cold during the body scrub and massage, which made it hard to fully relax. Breakfast was okay, but I wish there were more Western-style options available. Overall, I’d definitely stay here again. Everything about the hotel itself was lovely, I’d just skip the spa next time!

The hotel is nice, spacious beautiful room at check in we were treated to a refreshing juice. There is a big pool on the grounds and a big jacuzzi with hot water in the room.  Minuses of the hotel: Far from the attractions. Taxi from the center only go there for the price of pick me x2. Hotel taxi are 3 times more expensive. There are no stores and restaurants near the hotel, so inside the hotel prices for food x3, Also after 6pm it is dangerous to be outside because elephants are walking around. Now let's talk about the premium status and the five races. In 7 years of traveling, this is the first hotel that did not have a bathrobe, slippers and toothbrush and toothpaste in the room. The plumbing in the shower leaks, and the doors creak so much that you could call the spirits at night. Regarding the attention to the customer. I mentioned my upcoming birthday in conversation with the manager, but this fact was not used in any way to show any form of attention from the hotel. This is a huge miscalculation on the part of the staff at a premium hotel. We also had a late departure and our request to delay in the hotel for a couple of hours was refused. This was not due to the arrival of new customers, as the manager offered to extend our stay for a fee. For future customers this fact may be decisive in their choice. In general, the hotel is not bad, but the service and flexibility of the staff, as well as individual approach to customers, does not correspond to the premium level and requires improvement.

At one time this was likely a good hotel, however it is now tired, run down and old. We booked the all inclusive rate as we have four children and it made sense as it included drinks and snacks. However, when we arrived the hotel refused to honour it. The manager was exceptionally rude and insisted it was an error on our part despite it being advertised on numerous booking platforms. There are much nicer hotels that offer the same rate within the town that we would have booked had we realised the all inclusive was not an option. The rooms were ok but the extra beds were camp beds and the carpets were extremely dirty throughout the hotel with a strong smell of urine outside the fitness suite. The food was average at best but would not recommend. If you are staying for one night then this would be ok as the location is extremely central but not for any longer.

Thank you for the upgrade to the room with a balcony, and I absolutely love the huge bathroom. Thank you for the friendly service staff who answered my every query. Waking up to the quiet of Kandy Lake before the rest of the city wakes was a really peaceful feeling and I really enjoyed just standing on tje balcony soaking in the sights. Loving the wide breakfast spread too, ranging from local fare to continental selection. I was spoilt for choice and my tummy really loved the chicken curry & daal. Thank you.

Bawa's design speaks for itself. However, the service during peak season was an absolute disaster. 1. Check-in was very brief with no introduction to the hotel's activities. 2. Vanishing Front Desk: On day 1, my requests for water and cleaning during the day were ignored. At night, I called 10 times with no answer. Eventually, someone picked up after I pressed the emergency button twice. The next day, my request for slippers was also ignored. There were no bathrobes in the room. 3. At 12 PM, I received a call reminding me to check out and offering assistance with luggage transport. After I confirmed, I waited in my room for 15 minutes to no avail and ended up having to drag my own luggage. For a renowned luxury hotel, the service was truly disastrous.

A bed was bad.We couldn’t have a good sleep and the AC is very noisy Not impressed, Not happy

A wonderful stay with absolutely breathtaking views. Wherever you look, you’re surrounded by rolling mountains, and the grounds are beautiful with lots of native wildlife; you really feel at one with nature. The service was exceptional throughout. All staff were attentive, kind, and genuinely eager to help. A special mention to the reception team, especially Jenovia, who was incredibly friendly and helpful, showing us around and making us feel very welcome from the start. The hotel is also very family-friendly, with a small play park and thoughtful touches like towel animals from housekeeping (Ravi) that made our little girl’s day. Breakfast was very good with plenty of choice, including both Western and Sri Lankan options. A few very small improvements (such as having bacon readily available, colder milk at breakfast, and ice with poolside drinks) would make the experience truly five-star, but these are minor details. Rooms were clean and comfortable with all amenities provided, and overall the level of service really stood out. If you’re looking for stunning views, a peaceful setting, and excellent hospitality, this is a fantastic choice and one I’d happily recommend.

The location of Queen's Hotel Kandy - 160 Years of Heritage & Luxury is excellent, right across from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake, all within walking distance. I also found the food to be quite good, not as bad as some reviews suggest. The hotel's facilities are indeed older, which is consistent with the nature of the hotel; choosing to stay here is all about experiencing that sense of history. However, I believe the bedding doesn't need to 'match' this historical age – the sheets and duvet covers were yellowed. This is definitely an area that could be improved to make guests more comfortable.