Queen's Hotel Kandy
Historic colonial hotel in Kandy, offering classic charm, lake views, and proximity to the Temple of the Tooth.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perahera Festival buzz
Queen's Hotel Kandy
Best Time
Perahera Festival buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic colonial hotel in Kandy, offering classic charm, lake views, and proximity to the Temple of the Tooth.
"A memorable stay filled with warmth, fun, and a sense of history."
🎯 Book Lake View Rooms
Opt for rooms with lake views for stunning vistas and a more serene experience.
🍽️ Try the Lamprais
Don't miss the highly recommended Lamprais, a delicious and filling meal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Architecture
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of British colonial-era design, a true architectural marvel.
Lamprais Feast
Savor authentic, flavorful Lamprais, a Sri Lankan delicacy, at an affordable price.
Kandy Lake Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Kandy Lake from select rooms and common areas.
Temple of the Tooth Proximity
Experience the spiritual heart of Kandy with the sacred Temple of the Tooth just a short walk away.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colonial Charm
Prime Location, Peak Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Lake View Rooms
Opt for rooms with lake views for stunning vistas and a more serene experience.
🍽️ Try the Lamprais
Don't miss the highly recommended Lamprais, a delicious and filling meal.
🚶♀️ Walk to Temple of Tooth
Enjoy the short, convenient walk to the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake.
💧 Stay Hydrated During Perahera
If visiting during Perahera, bring plenty of fluids due to crowds and heat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Lake View Rooms
Opt for rooms with lake views for stunning vistas and a more serene experience.
🍽️ Try the Lamprais
Don't miss the highly recommended Lamprais, a delicious and filling meal.
🚶♀️ Walk to Temple of Tooth
Enjoy the short, convenient walk to the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake.
💧 Stay Hydrated During Perahera
If visiting during Perahera, bring plenty of fluids due to crowds and heat.
💰 Value for Money
The Lamprais is noted as being affordable and sufficient for two people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise Queen's Hotel Kandy for its stunning colonial architecture, prime location near Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth, and exceptional hospitality. The food, particularly the Lamprais, and the family-friendly atmosphere are also frequently highlighted as major positives. Some guests mention that certain parts of the hotel might feel a bit dated, but this is often overshadowed by the charm and history.
"We stayed at Queen’s Hotel, Kandy, for two nights during my recent visit. We had a truly lovely experience at Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest and most historic hotels in Kandy. The building itself has a classic colonial charm with high ceilings, grand staircases, and a beautiful old-world feel. Its location is perfect, right in the heart of the city, just across from the Temple of the Tooth and near Kandy Lake.
What made our visit even more special was the Junior Chef’s competition held in celebration of World Children’s Day. My daughter Hannah participated in the event and had so much fun and so did the other children! It was a joy to watch them all smiling, learning, and enjoying the experience together making pizza and even garnishing cupcakes. The event was very well-organized and thoughtfully planned.
I would especially like to thank Ms. Michelle Jayasundera, Guest Relation Executive, who was incredibly accommodating and welcoming. She made sure we were comfortable and satisfied during our time there, and her kind and professional manner really stood out.
Overall, it was a memorable stay filled with warmth, fun, and a sense of history. Thank you to Queen’s Hotel and the whole team for making it such a positive and unforgettable experience for me and my daughter."
Harinda Dilshan
"We checked in at the hotel with our twins for a night just to visit Temple of tooth. We got the perfect room for our family. They were considerate about our needs when allocating the room. I have to say that customer service was exceptional. The buffet spread during both dinner and lunch was excellent. The convenience of the location when visiting the temple enhanced our experience with our little ones. We are considering visiting again when we are in the area"
Chanaka De Silva
"We arrived at Queens Hotel on the last day of the Perahera in August. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, we were welcomed warmly by the staff and made to feel comfortable immediately. On the following day, we were upgraded to a large suite overlooking the beautiful lake.
We were delighted with the old charm and colonial grandeur of the hotel, and the spaciousness.
The guest relations was outstanding. Everyone from the management downwards were attentive and friendly. Michelle needs special mention here, as she took a personal interest in making us comfortable in every aspect.
The rooms were comfortable and clean, and the room boys were ever so polite and helpful.
The food was excellent with a wide choice of both eastern and western cuisine. We enjoyed the breakfast and dinner buffets very much indeed in the two weeks we spent at the hotel.
Furthermore, the unsurpassed location Queens hotel enjoys, central and close to sites of interest, is indeed an asset.
We will no doubt return to Queens on our next visit."
Indra Angunawela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Queen's Hotel Kandy is centrally located. From Colombo, you can take a train or a bus to Kandy. The hotel is a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride from the Kandy railway station.
Yes, the hotel is easily accessible. It's a 20-minute walk from Kandy station and close to local bus routes.
The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a train to Kandy, which is about a 2-3 hour journey.
Yes, the hotel typically offers parking facilities for guests. It's advisable to confirm availability when booking.
Queen's Hotel is located right in the heart of Kandy, making it extremely convenient for exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons or festivals like Perahera, to secure your preferred room.
Standard check-in is usually around 2 PM and check-out around 11 AM or 12 PM. It's best to confirm these times directly with the hotel.
No, there are no entrance fees for the hotel. You only pay for accommodation or dining if you are a guest.
Generally, yes, you can visit the restaurants and bars. However, it's always a good idea to check their policy or make a reservation.
While not strictly enforced for all areas, smart casual attire is generally appreciated, especially for dinner.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hotel offers an outdoor pool, multiple dining options (restaurants, bar, cafe), spacious rooms, and beautiful colonial architecture.
Yes, it's very family-friendly, with comfortable rooms, a pool, and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
Yes, Queen's Hotel Kandy features a clean and well-kept outdoor swimming pool.
Yes, the rooms are equipped with air conditioning for guest comfort.
Wi-Fi is typically available for guests, though it's always good to check if it's complimentary or at an additional charge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel boasts several dining venues, including the Queen of Hearts restaurant, Empire Café, and the Lord Mountbatten Lounge Bar and Pub Royal.
Breakfast is often included, and reviews mention it's varied and fresh with local and international choices.
Absolutely! The hotel serves a wide range of cuisines, including authentic Sri Lankan dishes like Lamprais.
While specific prices vary, the Lamprais is noted as being LKR 950 and suitable for two, suggesting reasonable value.
The hotel offers a wide variety of cuisines, so it's likely they can accommodate vegetarian and vegan requests. It's best to inquire with the restaurant staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the colonial architecture, the grand staircases, the lake views, and the lush gardens. The hotel's historic ambiance is very photogenic.
Yes, guests are welcome to take photos in their rooms and around the hotel's public areas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots might require prior permission.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds for serene shots of the lake and architecture. Golden hour in the evening is also beautiful.
It's always polite to ask for permission before photographing other guests or staff members.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The hotel's central location makes it easy to visit nearby attractions like the Temple of the Tooth without long journeys, which is a huge plus when traveling with little ones. The buffet spreads are also noted as excellent, offering variety that should please even picky eaters.
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows budget-conscious travelers to enjoy a taste of local cuisine without overspending.For those looking to experience the historic ambiance without necessarily booking the most luxurious rooms, exploring the hotel's public areas, gardens, and perhaps enjoying a meal or drink at one of its eateries can still provide a memorable experience. The hotel's prime location also saves on transportation costs for visiting key Kandy attractions.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Its location directly opposite the Temple of the Tooth and near Kandy Lake places you at the heart of Kandy's cultural and spiritual landscape. You can easily explore these vital sites and soak in the local culture, making it an ideal base for a historically immersive trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1The hotel has been meticulously maintained, preserving its heritage while offering modern comforts. This blend of old-world elegance and contemporary amenities makes it a unique destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience. Many guests rave about the 'classic colonial charm' and 'old-world feel' that permeates the property.
Its prime location, directly opposite the sacred Temple of the Tooth and adjacent to Kandy Lake, further cements its historical significance. Being in the heart of Kandy allows visitors to easily immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural tapestry and historical landmarks.
Culinary Delights at Queen's
The hotel features multiple dining venues, including the Queen of Hearts restaurant, known for its extensive buffet spread featuring both Eastern and Western cuisines. For lighter fare or a coffee break, the Empire Café is a popular choice. Evenings can be spent at the Lord Mountbatten Lounge Bar and Pub Royal, offering a classic colonial ambiance with a good selection of drinks and snacks.
Reviews consistently highlight the quality and variety of food, with breakfast and dinner buffets receiving particular praise. The convenience of these dining options within the hotel adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment of a stay, ensuring guests have delicious and accessible meal choices throughout their visit.
Experiencing Kandy's Vibrancy
Just steps away is the serene Kandy Lake, providing picturesque views and a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. The hotel's proximity to these landmarks means guests can easily explore them on foot, enhancing their experience and saving valuable travel time.
Furthermore, Queen's Hotel is a prime spot to witness the annual Kandy Esala Perahera, a spectacular festival of lights, dancers, and elephants. Staying at the hotel during this time offers excellent vantage points for viewing the procession, though it also means higher crowds and a need for advance booking.
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