The Kandalama Hotel is built up against the mountains and literally draped in greenery. It's rather an ugly looking building but the setting is great. It was designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lankas famous architect and you will be able to sit at his very own desk where he began to design the hotel. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with all the facilities - not luxurious but the bathrooms are wonderful and look out on undisturbed views over the tank (lake) and Sigiriya Rock in the distance. The food was very good, with themed buffets in the evenings that are the best I've eaten in SL. There is an infinity pool overlooking the lake and if you look over the edge, you'll probably come face to face with a shy black and white langur monkey sitting in the branches of the tree next to you. I wouldn't advise eating or drinking on your room balcony - the more agressive breed of monkeys (can't remember what they're called) appear from nowhere and steal your food. They took my g & t and frightened the life out of me!! The Kandalama has a very good little farm/wildlife centre with wild jungle fowl flitting in and out of the bushes. There are also many many species of exotic birds to see, such as bee eaters, parrots and flycatchers. It is worth getting up early to do a bit of birdwatching. There is an elephant to ride into the jungle scrubland and depending on the season, boat trips on the lake. Of course it is in the middle of nowhere and probably about half an hours' drive to the main road but very good to use as a relaxing base for Dambulla Rock Caves, Sigiriya etc etc. I would suggest spending around 3 days here, with one possibly set aside just to enjoy the facilities, views, flora and fauna. Do try their special roasted cashew nuts too - they're delicious!!