Simpson's Forest Hotel

This place was amazing all the way from the start where Sachin at front counter politely signed us in and made our daughter feel very comfortable. The rooms were very clean and although we had viewed the place online before we came and the photos looked nice the real view was way better than what can be captured on photos. We made the mistake of not leaving enough time to actually explore the surroundings thinking we would not have much to do in the hotel but next time we come we will definitely spend enough time exploring the surroundings of the actual hotel. We stayed here in off peak time so we were given the option to order whatever we liked for breakfast and dinner. Wasantha and the team In the restaurant made sure all our meal orders and service was five stars. If you’re thinking of staying in Kandy or surrounding in a hotel for luxury, I would easily choose this place to enjoy the scenery and stay away from the hustle and bustle of the main city

Fabulous stay at this lovely hotel, nothing was too much trouble, from checking in everything was brilliant. The pool area was gorgeous and the view was spectacular. At dinner times the food was buffet style but really well cooked and tasty with an excellent choice. Special mention to Lalith who was excellent. We had to leave early at 6am and Lalith was there waiting with a breakfast packed for us to take and bottled water. Recommend this hotel to anyone.

Simpson Forest is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Initially planned as an overnight stay, we ended up extending our visit by an extra day due to the stunning natural beauty and the exceptional service we received throughout our time there. Dilan, Sharkya, and Isuru at the front desk gave us a warm welcome and attended to every need with genuine friendliness. The restaurant offered a wide variety of delicious dishes, complemented by attentive and personalized service. A special mention goes to Imalka, Yatawara, and Wasantha for their outstanding support. The hotel also provides a range of activities to enhance your stay, and the breathtaking views are truly unforgettable.

Now this is a discovery, for me at least, a true gem nestled at the foothills of the Knuckles range, around twelve kilometres up from Kandy town. We normally choose two new hotels to stay, over a four day spread. But a last minute decision made us settle on all four days at Simpson’s. The photos spoke volumes, but the reality was beyond words. It was more than a vacation, it was more like a divine meditation amid more than 70 acres of tea and other flora and fauna too numerous to call out separately, crowned by a tiny jewel of a natural rock pool (Simpson’s pool) that unveils itself to the committed lover. From the get go Front Office Manager Dilan was all courtesy. The GPS was a bit sketchy and we called him more than ten times for directions. He was patience itself, and the man in person matched the voice. All smiles, all service. The same goes for the entire staff top down or bottom up, starting from Manager Asela, who takes pains to speak personally with each guest enquiring after their welfare. The restaurant staff were perfection of service once again, Ajith, Wasantha, Lalith and the rest (apologies if I missed some of their names). Wasantha and Ajith went out of their way to satisfy my son's specialised palate. The food was some of the best we’ve had in a long while, compliments to a true culinary maestro, Senaka, the man behind the taste. Isuru, what a guy, naturalist, nature lover, movie buff all rolled in to one. You must take the mini treks that include a visit to Simpson’s pool. Isuru explains the flora and fauna while keeping eyes on the guest’s comfort and safety at all times. I was introduced to some rare birds and a cute fawn on one of the walks. The dip in the natural rock pool was heaven on earth. An honourable mention of the infinity pool that offers an Eagle’s eye view of the lush green around and below. The rooms were spacious, with five star comforts and furniture that offered an old world charm, crowned with views to die for, from the private verandas outside each room. The hotel displays a colonial look that blends in nicely with the lush finely maintained green lawns and backdrop. Now…the the relentless wait until my next visit.