Castle Hill Bungalow: A Legacy of Hospitality – By Dr Harold Gunatillake
The Castle Hill Bungalow has been recently renovated, and the interior has been modernised. The hotel provides a high comfort level due to excellent service and a wide range of amenities
“Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, lies a historical gem with a story as rich as the city itself. Welcome to Castle Hill Bungalow, a boutique bungalow that has stood the test of time, witnessing the ebb and flow of history.”
“Built-in 1928 during the English reign in Sri Lanka, Castle Hill Bungalow was initially owned by an Englishman, Christobel Joliffe. Its colonial architecture and sprawling gardens speak volumes of its past grandeur.”
“The bungalow found its Sri Lankan roots when it was sold to E.R. Senanayake, a distinguished aristocrat of Kandy, whose family played a pivotal role in the country’s journey towards independence.” The Castle Hill Bungalow has been recently refurbished, and the interior has been updated to a boutique bungalow. The hotel boutique bungalow offers a high level of comfort thanks to quality service and a wide range of services.
It is located in a good area of Kandy with easy access to cultural sites and attractions. The staff speaks English and knows the sights.” I was invited to a bana preaching and dhana offering to the Buddhist priests at this bungalow on Friday, 31st May. According to Buddhist traditions, the head priest preached a bana, then offered food to the priests, and then another priest preached a traditional thanksgiving. Attending such events and participating in the agenda, you gain merit according to
Buddhist traditions.
Now, let me show you the bungalow and garden, which is supposed to be the most prestigious historical piece of real estate in Kandy.
“As you walk through the halls of this majestic bungalow, you can’t help but feel the whispers of history, the echoes of almsgiving and the wisdom imparted by Bana’s preaching. It’s not just a stay; it’s an immersion into the soul of Kandy.”
It has been converted into a boutique bungalow owned by Sugeewa Palliaguruge of Oak Ray Hotels. This bungalow belongs to an affiliate company called the Seven Angels, directed by his wife, Michelle. There are excellent reviews from tourists who have spent many days in this quiet, serene bungalow.
“Join us at Castle Hill Bungalow, where every corner tells a story, and every stay becomes a page in the history of this enchanting city.” Goodbye for now until we meet again.
