The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Kandy, Sri Lanka
![Take in wide-ranging views from the pool at the Elephant Stables](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/the-elephant-stables.webp)
Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka. Home to the famous Temple of the Tooth, it’s a must visit when you’re on the island. A stay is best enjoyed in one of the many boutique hotels in Kandy, with some in the city centre, and others a bit further up the mountains. Whichever you prefer, you’ll find a great place to stay in our hand-picked list.
1. The Elephant Stables
Hotel
![Several shaded, cushioned loungers by the tree-lined outdoor pool at the Elephant Stables, lit up at dusk](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/general-10.webp)
The Elephant Stables is a gorgeous little hotel perched on the hillside, with a fantastic view of the valley below. Only 10 minutes from the centre of Kandy, the boutique hotel welcomes families and travellers of all styles. The gardens are home to a family of tortoises that kids love to discover in between the bushes. The food is lovely and the hospitality is top notch. This old house used to belong to a Kandy aristocrat who kept elephants in his fields, hence the name.
2. Theva Residency
Hotel
![Four wooden loungers by the outdoor infinity pool, all with long-ranging mountain views at Theva Residency](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/3-2.webp)
The Theva Residency has the best views in the area. Built on the hillside and designed to maximise the vistas, guests will be amazed at how much they can see of the mountains around them. Plunge into the infinity pool overlooking the valley or play some board games in the chill-out room. Watch the sunset over the hills and plan the next day around the city of Kandy.
3. Galavilla Boutique Hotel & Spa
Boutique Hotel, Spa Hotel
![Several people gather in a shaded seating area in the verdant gardens of Galavilla Boutique Hotel & Spa at night](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/galavilla_068.webp)
Galavilla is a beautiful resort and spa in the mountains of Kandy – boutique hotels come with incredible scenery in this part of the world. Take a dip in the pool surrounded by jungle or get a much-needed massage at the spa. Choose from one of 10 themed rooms, all decorated with gorgeous colour schemes and comfortable amenities.
4. Viyana Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel
![Double bed, two footstools, two armchairs and cabinet in high-ceilinged room with views of greenery at Viyana Boutique Hotel](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/g-suite.webp)
Viyana Boutique hotel in Kandy is a small property that overlooks Kandy Lake. Close enough to the centre for quick access to the city sights, it’s also a lovely place to get away. The restaurant serves both Sri Lankan and Western food, so whatever your taste, you’ll never go hungry.
5. Ayaana Boutique Hotel
Hotel
![Two adjacent single beds, plus a double bed behind them, in a suite with a desk and desk chair at Ayaana Boutique](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/slider_3-1-750x330.webp)
Ayaana Boutique Hotel is a stunning place to stay on the outskirts of Kandy city, in Polgolla village. It’s a great starting point for all of the central highlands. All the food at Ayaana is halal – and of course, delicious with it.
Still looking for a stunning hotel in Kandy? Check out our curated guide to the best hotels to book in Kandy, Sri Lanka. For even more options, discover the best homestays in Sri Lanka.