Mahaweli Reach Hotel: Luxury and Relaxation for Families

Mahaweli Reach Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is an oasis of luxury and relaxation nestled on the banks of the Mahaweli River. With its beautiful gardens, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and top-notch amenities, it is no wonder that this hotel is a favorite among travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. The kids and I stayed here back in 2020 and immediately fell in love with the property. I was lucky enough to stay here again in March 2023 in the Presidential Suite which made me love it even more. Keep reading to see why I highly recommend this hotel for families traveling in Sri Lanka.

Location

Mahaweli Reach Hotel is located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, Kandy. It is approximately 115 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, and the drive to the hotel takes about three hours but if you encounter heavy traffic then it could take up to two hours longer. The hotel is situated on the banks of the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka, and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

With it being next to the river it can have mosquitos, so be sure to bring some bug repellant.

Accommodation

The hotel offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and preferences. There are 112 rooms and suites, all elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The rooms are spacious and feature large windows that allow plenty of natural light in, as well as offering views of the river or the hotel’s lush gardens. The first time we stayed here our room was a triple, so we each got our own bed.

Presidential Suite

The Presidential Suite is the epitome of luxury and extravagance, and it is the most luxurious accommodation option at Mahaweli Reach Hotel. The suite is located on the fifth floor of the hotel and offers breathtaking views of the hotel and the surrounding mountains. It is spread over 2,500 square feet and features a large living room, a dining room, a study, a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, and two bathrooms.

The living room is tastefully decorated with plush sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The dining room is equipped with a large dining table and chairs, making it the ideal place to enjoy a sumptuous meal with friends or family.

The master bedroom features a king-sized bed, a large dressing area, and an en-suite bathroom with a Jacuzzi. The guest bedroom features twin beds, a dressing area, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Both bedrooms are beautifully furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.

The study is equipped with a desk, a chair, and a computer, making it the perfect place to catch up on some work or browse the internet. The suite also features three private balconies that offer stunning views of the property with glimpses of the river and the surrounding mountains, making it the ideal place to sit and relax with a cup of tea or coffee.

There’s even a tiny workout area with hand weights and a treadmill.

Dining

The hotel’s main restaurant, The Elvitigala, serves a wide range of Sri Lankan, Indian, and international cuisine, using only the freshest and finest ingredients. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers both buffet and à la carte options.

For those who want to enjoy a more intimate dining experience, the hotel offers several private dining options, including the Garden Pavilion, which is set amidst the hotel’s beautiful gardens and can accommodate up to 12 guests.

The hotel also has two bars, the Araliya Lounge Bar, and the Terrace Bar, where guests can enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, wines, and spirits. Both bars offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains, making them the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Facilities and Activities

Mahaweli Reach Hotel offers a range of facilities and activities to keep guests entertained and relaxed during their stay.

Swimming Pool

The hotel has a large outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and parasols, making it the perfect place to soak up the sun and cool off during the day. The water isn’t heated but it’s so hot during the day you will welcome the cool water. Make time for the pool each day. Your children will thank you!

Spa

Eden and I both visited the spa the first time we visited and it was absolutely wonderful. They did switch to USD pricing, so it’s not a great deal. Prices are now only slightly better than what you get in the states.