Lady Gordons Homestay

The owner was polite, the beds were okay, and the shower had hot water with good pressure. That’s about all I can praise. I can’t understand how this place has a 4+ rating, even for the price. There was quite a bit of black dirt along the floor and walls, mold in the shower, and the bathroom window was covered in spider webs and dirt. The soap was a small, old, used leftover. One window wouldn’t close, with only wooden ribs across it and no mosquito net, so mosquitoes came in and outside noise carried straight through. Someone nearby had a party on Friday evening, and we barely slept. I know it’s a cheap homestay and wasn’t expecting luxury, but I do expect a clean room when I check in and windows that close, whatever the price. We’ve stayed in other Sri Lankan homestays in a similar price range that were WAY cleaner. I wouldn’t return or recommend it.

The hosts were very friendly, and we could get laundry done there for 1,000, washed and folded. The only downside was the 15-minute walk to the centre, which is slightly uphill, though not terrible. There are just 2 rooms in the complex, with the owners living next door. Our room was big and fairly clean, and we barely saw any bugs. The shower was large and had hot water. There’s a balcony off the bedroom that’s nice for sitting at sunset, plus a large living room outside the rooms and a small kitchen with a fridge, tea, and coffee.

A delicious homemade breakfast and just minutes from town made this a lovely stay. The place was clean and cozy, and we were welcomed so warmly. One thing to know: the nearby school starts its mornings with songs over a loudspeaker. It’s a sweet, unusual wake-up call!

Friendly hosts, a great breakfast, and a nice clean place within walking distance of the centre. A very nice place to stay in Kandy.