Mandara Rosen Yala, Kataragama

Our recent stay at Mandara Rosen Yala was a genuinely pleasant experience. The hotel's commitment to cleanliness was evident, and the staff were consistently helpful, making our visit thoroughly enjoyable. Breakfast each morning provided a good start to the day, while the dinner buffet was particularly impressive, offering a fabulous spread that was a highlight of our evenings. The hotel's serene atmosphere allowed us to relax and recharge, which was much appreciated after exploring the local area. We felt welcomed and valued as guests throughout our stay, thanks to the attentive service. If our travels bring us back to Kataragama, Mandara Rosen Yala will certainly be our hotel of choice once more. It's an establishment that promises comfort and excellent dining experiences.

Lovely hotel in a great location, there it ends. Room had obviously not been prepared for guests, tea coffee not filled up. Sat on bed on arrival, wheel fell off corner of bed, reported it to reception, staff member lifted bed shoved wheel back under corner of bed (filled us with confidence). Wife asked for an ironing board, staff brought it, set it up and broke it, whilst in use it collapsed, complained at reception, greeted with indifference, until I demanded to see manager. Went to use shower to cool off, only to find pipe work loose, water spraying everywhere except from shower. Dining room continued the Fawlty Towers theme, all members of party of 16 arrived at the same time. By the end of our meal some members were still waiting for their starters to arrive. We were waiting for chef to try to drag a dead body through the restaurant. We kept looking for TV camera crew. Reception staff constantly standing around just talking, no money changing until accountant turns up at 0830 so don’t expect an early start. Managerial staff need to take control of the staff, train them, institute a walk round procedure to check accommodation, ensure defects are reported by house staff. The hotel itself could be a great asset but needs managerial staff to start managing it and training staff. There ends this episode of Sri Lankan Fawlty Towers.

Really lovely welcome by such happy smiling staff. My room was beautiful with flowers on the beds. The pool attendant kept them pristine and ensured we were supplied with cushions for the beds and towels. So kind. The food was excellent with a great variety to choose from and all the staff were smiling and courteous throughout our two night stay. They also came to wave us off, which was nice.

Our first room smelled of stale urine as soon as we entered. Also did not look clean. Immediately asked to move room. Reception said they would sort it. Next we knew 2 mangers and 2 cleaners came to try and clean the room. When we said no we wanted to move manager got a bit hostile. We insisted and moved room. Next room smelled better but on our first night was not clean. Food was poor and as hotel was empty only a very limited set menu was provided. Only positive was the pool man who was always friendly, efficient and kept the pool amazing. Also perhaps the owner/ manager should leave the restaurant, where staff are required to wait on him, and manage his hotel!

Our stay was exceptional! The food was exquisite, with diverse, flavorful dishes. The rooms were spacious, spotless, and comfortable. The ambience was serene and luxurious, perfect for relaxation. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend this hotel for a memorable and delightful stay! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Shocking room - filthy and dated. Old rusty bathroom with shower door unable to close. Dead bugs everywhere. Dirty towels. Management sent in cleaning to resolve but room is far from acceptable. Buffet dinner adequate but not good. Service poor