IFTI Holiday Home

We spent nearly a month in the flat at the back of the house, overlooking the courtyard and garden. It was spacious, pleasantly cool in the mornings, and cleaner than we'd usually found in Sri Lanka, though the floor was dusty when we arrived. They cleaned it thoroughly when we asked. Afternoons got a bit too hot, but fans helped most days. You could pay extra to use the bedroom A/C on warm nights, although it cost more than at our previous accommodation. We got an Airbnb discount for the month, and for that price the place was very good. Just keep in mind it isn't in Kandy itself. Iftiquar was a great help during the early Covid outbreak, and throughout our stay he was happy to explain things and arrange what we needed. There are buses and tuk-tuks to Kandy, about 20-30 minutes by bus and quicker by tuk-tuk. Buses run frequently during the day. Nearby there are fish, vegetable and fruit, and grocery shops. Bigger supermarkets are about 10 minutes away by bus, while a liquor shop and laundry are in a nearby town. The internet was usually 4-8 Mbit, with reasonable reception only from Mobitel. It could be unstable, which made some video-call workdays less than ideal, though we managed. For browsing, email, and low-resolution video it was plenty. Iftiquar served us a couple of delicious meals, and you can also hire the cook for a day to prepare food from groceries you provide. Thank you for everything, Iftiquar. You were a great help. Stay healthy and safe.

The owner was very helpful and offered transport to Kandy's attractions and the surrounding area. There is a lot to see in Kandy. We stayed five people comfortably in one of the nice apartments. It was very clean, with daily cleaning, hot water, a fan and A/C. Breakfast was included and good.

IFTI Holiday Home is on Madawela Road, about 2.5 km from the Sri Lankan Air Taxi Dock in Polgolla. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout and simple, homely accommodation. The property is 6 km from Kandy Railway Station, Kandy Bus Station, and Kandy City Centre. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is 7 km away, Sembuwatta Tea Plantation is 15 km away, and Bandaranike International Airport is within 107 km. Rooms have tiled floors, a wardrobe, desk, cable flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Daily maid service is available. Guests can use the shared lounge and dining area, and luggage storage, free parking, and ironing facilities are provided. Airport transfers can be arranged for an extra charge. There's also a shared kitchen guests may use for a fee, or a cook can prepare meals on request.

Mr. Ifthi would win any award for best host, hands down. He made my stay memorable. I loved this place: clean, modern, beautiful, simply splendid. If you're going to Kandy, this is where to stay. Thanks for such a great experience!