Designed in a minimalist and contemporary style by Sri Lanka's foremost architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the Kandalama Hotel is not a building to look at, but a building to look from: a giant viewing platform over Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. The hotel enjoys sweeping views of the neighbouring lake and surrounding countryside, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the 1st Century BC Dambulla rock temple and the 5th Century AD Sigiriya Rock Temple. It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscaped gardens and is a haven for over 160 species of migratory birds.  A resident naturalist is on hand to take guests on forest treks. The hotel has 152 rooms and suites, all spacious and elegantly furnished and all with great views. All rooms have fully ensuite bathrooms, some with jacuzzis.  There are 3 restaurants, all offering stunning views over the lake towards Sigirya Rock. The cuisine is a good mix of western and eastern dishes and the buffet is ranked by some as the best in Sri Lanka. Guests can be taken on sunset elephant rides around the lake or (during the winter months) a dawn hot air balloon ride is possible over the neighbouring countryside.  The hotel is a good base from which to explore Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. Sigiriya Rock is a short 30 minute drive away, whilst Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and the Minneriya wildlife sanctuary are approximately one and a half hours drive. Style Modern Hotel Air/Con No Dining Yes Children Yes No. of Bedrooms 157 - 5 categories of rooms and suites Pool Yes Activities Sightseeing & cultural visits, relaxing, swimming, elephant rides, hot air ballooning, forest treks Price Range From US$185 to US$508 per room per night, depending on room type.  B&B (excluding 10% service charge & 16% taxes) Find Similar Properties