Manor House, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Manor House Kandy occupies a special place in the story of the Kandyan Kingdom. Previously known as the Nugawela Walauwa, it was built in 1884 and served as the residence of the chief custodian of the Kandy Sacred Tooth Relic. Staying here is, in a very real sense, an opportunity to inhabit a piece of living history — a Walauwa that once belonged to the great aristocracy of Kandy. The property was fully refurbished in 2005, bringing it into the present while preserving the stately character that defines it.

The Manor House describes itself as the perfect intersection of old-world regal charm and new-world luxury, function, and style. That balance is felt throughout, from the cream and white walls paired with dark wood furniture to the marble and polished teakwood floors of the individually named guest rooms — each named after a Sri Lankan flower.

Accommodation

The property is set over three floors and offers a total of ten rooms: six double-occupancy bedrooms, one family room, and three deluxe suites, all with attached bathrooms and air conditioning. The rooms are spacious and decorated with their own individual schemes, some quite ornate and heavy in the 19th-century style of the Manor House itself. King-sized or generous twin beds, pretty windows, and new en-suite shower rooms are features found throughout. The overall atmosphere is one that, by design, feels more like a private home than a hotel.

Dining

The dining area is large, with a central table that seats up to 14 guests — well suited to a communal, family-style meal. Additional tables are carefully placed around the restaurant. The kitchen serves both western dishes and local Sri Lankan cuisine according to guests' preferences. It is worth noting that the property does not serve alcohol, though guests are welcome to bring their own and no corkage charge is applied.

Facilities

The Manor House is equipped with a range of facilities to complement its historic setting. These include a swimming pool of 40 feet in length, a Wi-Fi service, an Ayurveda spa and wellness centre, a billiard room, and a library.

Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Guests who prefer to stay within the property will find the Ayurveda wellness centre a highlight, offering treatments that range from body massages to yoga. The pool is an equally inviting retreat.

For those who venture out, the Manor House is ideally positioned in Kandy — the hill capital and a significant cultural centre of Sri Lanka. Within reach are some of the island's most celebrated landmarks, including the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Elephant Orphanage at Pinnawala. Golf, cycling, cultural shows, and further Ayurveda experiences are also available within approximately an hour's drive.