Nestled in the lush hills of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, lies The Elephant Stables hotel, a true gem that blends old-world charm with modern luxury. Originally built in the late 1800s as the home of a British tea planter, the property was later converted into a boutique hotel in the 1980s. Today, the Elephant Stables is a luxurious retreat that offers a unique blend of colonial elegance and contemporary design.
The old colonial bungalow was previously the home of Sir Cudah Ratwatte, the patriarch of the island’s leading aristocratic family. Many elephants were once housed in the gardens of his old plantation – hence the name The Elephant Stables.
The hotel’s six luxurious rooms and suites are each uniquely decorated with antique furniture and original artwork, offering guests a comfortable and stylish base for exploring the cultural attractions of Kandy, including the Temple of the Tooth, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and the Kandyan dance performances.
The Elephant Stables’ signature restaurant, The Stable, offers an exceptional dining experience that showcases the best of Sri Lankan cuisine, with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic garden. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing dip in the hotel’s infinity pool or indulge in a pampering spa treatment.
The Elephant Stables is not just a hotel, but a destination that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. Its timeless charm and exceptional hospitality make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and authentic experience in the heart of Kandy.
THINGS TO DO
Kandy, known as Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. One of the must-visit places is the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple’s stunning architecture and intricate carvings are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Exploring Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea plantations is also a must-do activity for any traveler visiting the country. Sri Lanka is renowned for its high-quality tea, and the region surrounding Kandy is home to some of the country’s most beautiful tea estates.
Visitors can start their tea journey with a trip to the Ceylon Tea Museum, located in the former Hanthana Tea Factory. The museum offers an immersive experience on the history of tea production in Sri Lanka, showcasing antique tea-processing equipment and artifacts.
Travelers can also take a guided tour through the lush green hills, stopping at various stations to explore the plantations and sample some of the world’s finest tea. Whether you’re a tea lover or simply appreciate beautiful scenery, a visit to Sri Lanka’s tea country is a unique and unforgettable experience.
