I was thrilled when I won a voucher for a day’s stay (full board basis) at the prestigious Hotel Topaz in Kandy at a sing-a-long last December. The voucher had to be utilized prior to June 30, 2019 and although I was longing to, I couldn’t do so until Sunday (June 30).
Kandy is my paternal hometown and I hadn’t visited it for quite some time. With a sense of nostalgia I contacted my cousin (who now owns my grandmother’s house Clarendon – a heritage site in Kandy town) who lives in Colombo. He said the beloved house was now under repair and would only be ready in time for the Perahera in August. He suggested that I contact the hotel and request the use of the voucher . However, I decided otherwise.
Hotel Topaz - the beautiful four star hotel is nestled on top of the Anniewatte Mountain. It provides a spa, a large outdoor pool and elegant accommodation. WiFi is available for free throughout the property.
I stayed there for only one night; I wish it could have been more! My room on the Green Floor (the third floor) was excellent with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Guests on this floor could opt for a ‘city’ view as well. Lunch and dinner were buffet style and breakfast a la carte at the Tamarind Restaurant.There was a great choice of food and its quality was very good. The staff was competent and friendly. The long pool on Palms Deck with its serene cyan water and poolside deck chairs was inviting. Throughout Sunday it was crowded with a group of young men. Monday morning I had it to myself for quite some time, until a young girl joined me. We had a lifeguard watching over us though. Could I have asked for more?
Hotel Topaz was built in 1976 and fashioned after a much loved gem stone found in Sri Lanka - the topaz. In view of its location in the hill capital, the last royal stronghold in the country, Hotel Topaz is considered the jewel in the crown of Kandy. Nestled amidst lush tropical greenery, surrounded by the distinctive Knuckles Mountain range and Bible Rock, enveloped in the cool winds blowing through the mountains, Hotel Topaz offers something for everyone.
The short distance away from the city centre lends the hotel and its guests maximum accessibility no matter what the choice of activity. It offers guests a tranquil setting and the option of exploring the city’s rich heritage in style and comfort. The warm and personal service is a testament to the widely famed Sri Lankan hospitality. Guests at Hotel Topaz are made to feel at home, and explore the surrounding gardens or have a cocktail or high-tea at its famous Sky Lounge, the rooftop terrace with its 360 degree view of the city and its hills.
However, the Sky Lounge was booked for a private party the night I stayed at the Topaz. I couldn’t resist the beautiful music that emanated from there. As I could not resist myself, I went up and peeped in from the outside. The family-friendly resort is located in the historical district. It’s less than two kilometres off the Bahirawakanda Vihara, Kandy Clock Tower and Asgiriya Stadium. The Kandy Lake and Temple of the Tooth are less than three kilometres away and the Kandy Railway Station is 26 minutes by foot.
A special rates scheme is currently offered to guests.