Mount Lavinia Hotel
Historic colonial hotel on a bluff with stunning ocean views, offering a popular lunch buffet and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy the pool and views
Mount Lavinia Hotel
Best Time
Enjoy the pool and views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic colonial hotel on a bluff with stunning ocean views, offering a popular lunch buffet and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.
"The hotel still offers beautiful views, it is unreasonable to pay premium prices for scenery alone."
🍽️ Buffet Lunch Deal
Opt for the lunch buffet day pass for great food and pool access.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunset views from the hotel are truly spectacular and a must-see.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanfront Views & Sunsets
Bluff overlooking the sea
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for sunset watching.
Lunch Buffet
Dining area
A highly-rated buffet offering a variety of delicious dishes with ocean vistas.
Colonial Charm
Throughout the hotel
Experience the grandeur of a historic hotel with a unique, old-world ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Consider a Day Pass for Views & Pool
Manage Expectations on Modern Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍽️ Buffet Lunch Deal
Opt for the lunch buffet day pass for great food and pool access.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunset views from the hotel are truly spectacular and a must-see.
Recommendations for lunch at a beachside hotel
What are hotels around colombo that offer morning check in and evening check out
🚶♀️ Proximity to Station
Conveniently located near Mount Lavinia train station for easy access.
✨ Colonial Ambiance
Embrace the historic charm, but be aware some areas may need updates.
Sri Lanka tour
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Buffet Lunch Deal
Opt for the lunch buffet day pass for great food and pool access.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunset views from the hotel are truly spectacular and a must-see.
🚶♀️ Proximity to Station
Conveniently located near Mount Lavinia train station for easy access.
✨ Colonial Ambiance
Embrace the historic charm, but be aware some areas may need updates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Lavinia Hotel offers a unique blend of colonial charm and stunning ocean views, with its lunch buffet and pool access being popular highlights for day visitors. While many appreciate the historic ambiance and picturesque setting, some guests have noted that certain areas and rooms require modernization and that service quality can be inconsistent. +1
"We didn’t stay here, but used the lunch buffet day pass option while we were waiting for our flight.
5,600 rupees for an incredible lunch, plus we were able to use the pool area for the rest of the afternoon.
Some areas may need a bit of TLC, but it got outweighed by the exceptional service. The staff is very friendly and the hotel is very close to the Mount Lavinia train station.
Great location with views of the beach, the Colombo skyline, and the sunset."
Manuel M
"The hotel was once one of the best in Asia, known for excellent service provided by its long-standing staff. Unfortunately, the current standards have fallen far below expectations. The staff require proper training—perhaps at a three- or four-star hotel—to understand what quality service truly means.
During my stay in rooms 344 and 356, both days were disappointing. Room service was practically non-existent (calls went unanswered), and we had to repeatedly request basic amenities such as towels. The service overall lacked professionalism.
In the dining area, the F&B Manager failed to display any signage regarding wet floors near the pool, which is a clear safety concern. Instead of addressing the issue professionally, she acted rudely and even told my son to leave the cold room—behavior that was completely unacceptable.
Due to these experiences, we cancelled the rest of our stay. While the hotel still offers beautiful views, it is unreasonable to pay premium prices for scenery alone. Until management improves staff training, room maintenance, and overall service quality, I cannot recommend this hotel to anyone"
shifaz jiffrey
"Disappointing Stay at Mount Lavinia Hotel
We checked in today and were immediately disappointed. We didn’t receive the hospitality, professionalism and warmth we received everywhere else in SriLanka. All staff from reception to dining service were indifferent. The hallway leading to our room was dreary, smelled strongly of dampness and mold, and looked outdated and poorly maintained. Unfortunately, the room was no better—it had a musty, moldy odor, visible black mold in the bathroom, and thick dust on the toilet paper holder, which spoke volumes about the hotel's cleanliness standards. The entire room felt damp and sticky, that after some time in the room I started coughing. The cough was so bad I ended up throwing up twice.
We requested a room change, but the alternative they provided was on the same floor and only slightly better. While the smell was a bit less intense, the bedding had suspicious stains, making us question whether it had even been properly cleaned. The only redeeming factor was the ocean view (which we paid extra for), but even that wasn’t worth enduring the poor conditions.
The hotel desperately needs major upgrades, deep cleaning, and proper staff training before it can justify its four-star rating.
I would not recommend staying here until significant improvements are made. Save your money and choose a hotel that values hygiene and guest comfort."
Mithula Sri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mount Lavinia Hotel easily by taxi or tuk-tuk from Colombo, which typically takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. The hotel is also conveniently located near the Mount Lavinia train station, making it accessible via public transport.
Yes, the hotel is very close to the Mount Lavinia train station, offering a convenient option for travelers using public transportation.
For a day visit, a taxi or tuk-tuk is a comfortable option. If you're coming from Colombo, consider the train for a scenic and budget-friendly journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you can visit the hotel for dining or opt for a day pass which often includes lunch buffet access and use of the pool area. This is a popular choice for those waiting for flights.
A day pass typically includes a lunch buffet and pool access, with prices around 5,600 rupees, though this can vary. It's advisable to confirm current pricing directly with the hotel.
The lunch buffet is a popular offering, usually available during midday hours. It's best to check the hotel's current schedule for exact timings.
While not always mandatory, booking the lunch buffet in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or if you are part of a group, to secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hotel's main attractions include its stunning ocean views, especially at sunset, its historic colonial architecture, and its dining options, particularly the lunch buffet.
Absolutely! The hotel offers beautiful colonial architecture and breathtaking ocean vistas, making it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Reviews suggest that while some rooms offer great ocean views, others may be outdated and require maintenance, with some guests reporting issues like dampness, mold, and malfunctioning air conditioning.
Yes, the hotel has a private beach area that guests can enjoy, offering direct access to the ocean.
Guest experiences with service vary. Some reviews highlight exceptional service and friendly staff, while others mention a lack of professionalism and responsiveness, suggesting a need for improved staff training. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel offers several dining options, including a popular lunch buffet and à la carte menus. The restaurant with ocean views is a highlight.
Many guests find the lunch buffet to be a great value, offering a wide selection of tasty food and generous portions, especially considering the stunning views.
Some visitors have noted that the à la carte prices are surprisingly decent for a hotel of this caliber, offering good value for tasty food.
While specific menus aren't detailed in reviews, hotels of this standard typically offer vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant staff about vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the oceanfront terraces for sunset, the colonial architecture of the building, and the private beach.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing the ocean views and the hotel's facade.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photoshoots might require prior permission or fees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hotel has a private beach, supervision is key due to the ocean. The historic ambiance might be interesting for older children, but younger ones might be more captivated by the pool and beach. Be mindful that some rooms might have maintenance issues, so if staying overnight, inquire about family-friendly room options or consider the day pass for a shorter, more controlled experience.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Transit Passengers
Its proximity to the Mount Lavinia train station also makes it an easy destination to reach from Colombo. This allows you to break up your journey with a pleasant experience, enjoying the hotel's ambiance and amenities without the commitment of an overnight stay.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore the hotel grounds for charming architectural details, and head to the private beach for coastal shots. The early morning hours can also offer beautiful, softer light before the crowds arrive. Remember to be respectful of guests if you're focusing on interior shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Ambiance
While the hotel retains much of its historic character, some reviews indicate that certain areas might be showing their age and could benefit from modernization. However, for many, this adds to the hotel's unique appeal, providing a step back in time. The stunning ocean views and the sound of the waves often complement the old-world atmosphere, creating a memorable experience.
Despite some areas needing a refresh, the hotel's prime location on a bluff overlooking the Indian Ocean remains a significant draw. The sunsets are particularly renowned, painting the sky with vibrant colors and providing a spectacular backdrop for guests. This natural beauty, combined with the hotel's historical significance, makes it a distinctive destination.
Dining Experiences: Buffets and Beyond
Beyond the buffet, the hotel offers à la carte dining, with some guests finding the prices to be quite reasonable for a hotel of its stature. The culinary experience is enhanced by the picturesque setting, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while taking in the ocean vistas.
While specific dietary information isn't always detailed, hotels of this caliber usually cater to various preferences. It's always recommended to communicate any dietary needs or preferences to the restaurant staff to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Navigating Service and Expectations
Conversely, other guests have reported issues with professionalism and responsiveness, suggesting that staff training could be enhanced to meet higher service standards. This inconsistency can impact the overall guest experience, leading to disappointment for some.
It's important for visitors to approach their stay with balanced expectations. While the hotel offers a unique historical ambiance and stunning views, potential guests should be aware that service quality can vary. Communicating needs clearly and politely to the staff might help in ensuring a smoother experience.
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