Blue Haven Guest House

We stayed three nights in a comfortable deluxe room, and the continental breakfast was a very good start to the day. Blue Haven is a little out of the way, but it’s peaceful and welcoming. The bus stop is close enough for an inexpensive ride to or from the city center.

We found the hilltop setting quiet and restful, with warm, helpful hosts who gave local tips and helped arrange transport and breakfast. The outdoor pool was a real highlight after sightseeing, and the rooms were generally bright and spacious, with comfortable beds, air conditioning and a fan. It felt cozy and family-friendly, particularly for couples and solo travelers. Blue Heaven Guest House is about 1.0 km to 1.4 km from Kandy city center and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Udawattakele Sanctuary is nearby. The distance keeps things quieter and away from city noise and dust, though the walk is often uphill, so many guests use a tuk-tuk for the 10-15 minute trip to the lake and main sights. The guest house also has free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms with toiletries, luggage storage and a tour desk. It offers good value for a budget-friendly stay with a pool. There have been a few separate complaints in older reviews about sheets or room quality, but in general the rooms are described as clean and the price reasonable for the facilities.

I’d strongly advise looking elsewhere. We paid in advance for a three-night reservation, but after we skipped the first night, the manager had given our room to other guests when we asked to stay the next night. The reservation had remained active, and we accepted that we wouldn’t get a refund for the night we missed. Getting to the property was also very difficult. Both routes were hard to manage, seemingly requiring a bike or walking, and there was no parking. Before booking, we asked specifically about food and were told it could be arranged, then on arrival we were told none was available. Communication from the manager was very poor. This was the worst guest house experience I’ve had, and I wouldn’t spend time or money here.

The shower was just a hand shower, and I couldn’t wash my head properly, which made it really uncomfortable. The room was also supposed to have a TV, but it didn’t work when we arrived. When we told the staff, the servant was rude and unhelpful, acting like it wasn’t his problem instead of fixing it or apologizing. I had a very bad stay, with poor facilities and service, and wouldn’t recommend this hotel.