Mount Lavinia Hotel

Kariyawasam Godakandage Kaushalya Nanayakkara

We stayed here to celebrate our 9th wedding anniversary, and it truly felt like a dream. From the very first call, we were met with kindness. Mr. Dhammika at the lobby made sure everything was just right, from a room with the most beautiful sea view to a lovely surprise setup with balloons, hearts, and even a delicious anniversary cake. It was thoughtful in a way that really touched us. Even though it was a busy time, check-in was quick and smooth, and we instantly felt at home. The room was spacious and comfortable, with everything we needed, but it was the view that stole our hearts. Watching the sunset with a drink in hand, seeing the city lights twinkle below, it felt peaceful and perfect. Our little daughter loved the pool, and so did we. The music, the calm, the water,it was just the kind of relaxation we needed. Dinner was an absolute highlight. The buffet had so many choices, with live cooking stations and amazing flavors. A special thank you to Shanika and her teammate for taking such good care of us. You could feel the passion of the kitchen team in every dish, a beautiful tribute to Chef Publis Silva’s legacy. Breakfast was just as impressive. The Sri Lankan corner especially stood out, some of the best we’ve ever had. And then, there was Mr. Piyaseele at the restaurant entrance, a gentleman with over 40 years of service. Speaking with him added a layer of warmth and history to our stay that we’ll always remember. Even the smallest things were handled with care. Housekeeping responded to our requests immediately, and we were even offered a late check out, which meant a lot with a young child. As someone who works in hospitality myself, I don’t often write reviews. But this team, this place, they truly deserve it. Every detail, every smile, every kind word made our stay unforgettable. Thank you to everyone who made us feel so welcome. We left with full hearts and beautiful memories and we’ll definitely be back. With love, Kaushalya and family

Samuel Douglas

This was my second visit and stay at Mount Lavinia Hotel (previously in 2017, where the experience was wonderful, 5*). In eight years you can tell there's been little to no investment in the structure of the iconic building, with the exterior falling to bits and the rooms being left to rot away. Everything from housekeeping, the TV, telephones not working properly, reception ignoring your requests and poor service throughout, I will never return to this hotel again. The only saving grace is that the porters were always friendly & helpful and the room service chefs made freshly made food. I'd avoid booking here for a long stay, you're better off being in central Colombo!

Marianne Kollerøs

Back at this hotel after 20 years, with high expectations. What we experienced was truly sad. The hotel is still as beautiful as ever, and so is the location — but it has not been maintained and is now in serious decline. The hotel’s only open restaurant is still good, and the breakfast is generous and tasty.

Rajini ravi-indran

It was a deeply disappointing experience due to multiple issues with the hotel’s cleanliness, safety, and service. mouldy smell and appeared dusty and unclean. Money was deducted on 4th Sep 2025 our check-in in date was 28th Sep . The staff appeared unprepared. • It took almost one hour to receive the second room key. despite our confirmed booking. I had a 9-month-old baby with me. But the cot was not provided, even thought it was requested. 1. Reception & Check-in Problems 2. Room Conditions – Unacceptable • Strong mouldy smell throughout both rooms • Room 1: Trash bin was not emptied, overall very dirty • Room 2: Unable to lock the door from inside — a serious safety issue • Balcony doors in both rooms were difficult to open • Bathrooms had visible mould on tiles and glass partitions • General condition: extremely poor, unhygienic, and not as advertised When we entered the rooms, the conditions were shocking: I have a video clip showing the condition of the rooms. 3. Attempted Room Change – No Improvement I raised my concerns with the reception, and a staff member showed me alternative rooms. On the way to the other room I saw buckets collecting water leaks and areas under dusty renovation. The other rooms were in similarly poor condition, so we decided to check out immediately on the same day to a diffrent hotel • I would rate Mount Lavinia Hotel 1 star due to the severe health and safety concerns. I booked this hotel through Agoda • I believe the listing and rating on Agoda are misleading, and do not reflect the true condition of the hotel.

Anni Rowland-Campbell

This hotel is so over-rated. It’s quite literally falling apart and very sad and tired. The rooms smelled stale, dirty and old; broken amenities in bathroom, minimal everything. The food very ordinary and very busy. The location is its only saving grace. It is not even remotely 4 star. Stay here is you want the history but Colombo has much nice and friendlier places to stay.