EKHO Lake House - From Colonial Bungalow to Royal Retreat

We had a wonderful stay with our friends over Xmas. A super Xmas dinner ,comfortable and clean rooms,and most attentive service .it was our 4th visit and we loved it.The location is one of the most beautiful locations we have seen serene and peaceful.The hotel a heritage one has been tastefully decorated retaining its old world charm

View and location

Ekho Lake House benefits from a unique, almost surreal setting, with an atmosphere that may initially feel charming. Unfortunately, this ambience is less the result of thoughtful character than of a place stuck in time. The facilities are outdated, in some cases close to unacceptable, and hygiene standards are questionable for a property positioned at this level. This is particularly disappointing given the high prices, which naturally raise expectations. The service is arguably the most frustrating aspect of the stay: staff appear passive and disengaged, creating a general sense of inertia. Activities are very poorly explained, with little guidance or effort to enhance the guest experience. The breakfast is especially underwhelming — uninspired, poorly executed, and completely lacking local character, which is difficult to justify in a country with such a rich culinary heritage. Food overall feels as though it has been coasting for far too long on past reputation, much like the property itself, which continues to heavily leverage its historical association with the Queen of England without delivering an experience worthy of that narrative today.

Great location, next to ancient ruins ticket office. Staff were helpful, breakfast was varied and generous.

Had a nice big room. Sadly the carpet was badly stained. We'd booked 2 nights but stayed only one. There were no sun loungers to lie and relax which we'd have wanted to do if the weather had been better. Once you've visited the old city which was reasonably interesting there's nothing in the new city which is basically a noisy dump. No decent amenities or restaurants. If you look at the hotel menu it only has one unexciting option for vegetarians but if you ask them then they produce something and actually made a wonderful veggie curry spread. The staff were pleasant but the city has nothing to entice tourism.

Nice location, beautiful room but the carpet on the floor needs to be replaced. Stunning view to the lake and stuff were helpful

A lot of mosquitoes and the beds don’t have mosquito nets. Some geckos also in the room make noises. We had to change room and ask the staff to remove them

Great location and spectacular view on the lake. Staff was very friendly. Room was super spacious and furniture was nice. Cool to be in such a historic place.

Definitely not a 4 star hotel unfortunately. Some of the amenities were outdated and overall not very clean.. such a shame because the place has so much potential. Spa is just a massage table in a random room and staff walks around during the massage - definitely not worth the price. Value for money is no good.

This is my 3rd visit to Sri Lanka, this is by far the best hotel that I have stayed at. Lake views from every room and communal gardens and restaurant. Staff are amazing, so is their breakfast. The small infinity pool is a plus. On check in, a delicious tamarind local juice was offered together with a 10 minute complimentary shoulder massage. The receptionist Buddini showed us to our room and was particularly helpful, kind and knowledgeable. She went the extra mile for us. The ancient city dates back to 1153 and is a must do. The museum is a stones throw away from the hotel. I will definitely come back to this hotel when I am next in the area and will book the Royal Suite where Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip stayed in 1954. The suite is beautiful with its own private garden/hot tub and lake views.

The whole hotel is simply beautiful. The room is very spacious and elegant. The balcony/garden right in the lake is awesome. All the staff was very kind and helpful.

The activities available should be more talked about during check in.