Kings Pavilion

With wood-panelled ceilings and cream furnishings, the King's Pavilion boasts a clean and classic look. There is a spacious lounge to recline in between excursions, as well as a spa with fantastic massages. Served in the classic dining room, on the veranda or in the garden, the restaurant serves an array of Sri Lankan and international cuisine, accompanied by world-class wines or cocktails. Specialties include their lip-smacking curries and the breakfast is a superb spread. At the front, the infinity pool is a cooling spot with views across the hills.

The rooms are bright and airy, and decorated in a style that celebrates Kandy's royal heritage while maintaining an uncluttered simplicity. The offering ranges from standard rooms to the King's Suite, which boasts a King-size bed, separate lounge and dining area and an in-room hot tub. The bathrooms are luxe cocoons with grey stone walls, deep soaking tubs and a rainfall shower. Most rooms also have a private balcony with views across the pretty gardens.

Enjoy strolls around the grounds or a dip in the pool as you take in the view. The King's Pavilion is less than two kilometres away from central Kandy so a day of sightseeing is definitely on the cards. Pay a visit to the fascinating Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, meander amidst the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens or explore Kandy's historic streets, sampling the finest Kandyan cuisine. Otherwise, use the hotel as a base and head further afield to hike the trails in the Knuckles Mountain Range or visit the Dambulla Cave Temple.