Raj Mahal Inn

Raj is a great host, and the cosy, clean rooms made for a perfect stop on the way from Colombo towards the South, for example Galle. You can get lovely massages there too. The hotel is close to a railway station, so it can be noisy now and then during the day. After 22.00h, there are no trains and it’s quiet. My friend and I slept perfectly.

The green garden is lovely for sunbathing, or having a home-cooked meal in the shade. The owner is wonderful and goes above and beyond to make your stay memorable, and there are some great massages available in house. This little hotel is just a hop from the beach, with the train station, buses, and shops all an easy walk away. The rooms are clean, carefully furnished, and have comfortable beds. Beautiful place!

Raj cooks awesome food, and there’s a fruit bar too. The rooms are tidy and clean, with hot water, and the AC is welcome during the few humid months. Otherwise, leave the doors open and enjoy the coastal breeze. Raj also offers professional massage and spa treatments right there, so you can walk back after relaxing without the hassle of travel. The shops are less than an easy 10-minute walk one way, and the quiet beach is in the other direction. The nearby trains briefly interrupt the calm, then things settle back into easy life outside the big city. The station is a minute from your door, handy for sightseeing, with trains at good times for heading out and returning in the evening. Well done, Raj, for making such a pleasant guest house and restaurant.

The rooms are simple and clean, and the staff are extremely nice and helpful. But it’s overpriced. The trains are very loud, there’s no free Wi-Fi or hot water, no TV, the breakfast was poor and not typical for the country, and the sun lounger couldn’t be used.