Milano Grand

Absolutely fantastic place to stay. You wouldn't expect it from a hotel right next to the bus station, but this place had pretty much everything: solidly designed, quiet rooms with balconies looking at greenery and letting in tons of natural light, a comfy bed, functional AC, yellow light in rooms, hot water, amenable and responsive staff, and literally the only decent breakfast I've had in a month in Sri Lanka. I wish all the people praising homestay breakfasts consisting of egg hoppers and a banana bunch would see what a real breakfast is supposed to look like - a properly tasty omelette, toast, butter, jam, a wide selection of fruits, fresh soursop juice, and a selection of coffee and tea! All this at a more than friendly price. The manager is a truly wonderful guy, so dedicated to his work and one of the rare knowledgeable and experienced people I've spoken to in the country. He was honestly friendly and happy to chat and give advice, and he ended up driving me to the bus stand on his scooter at no charge. First time in Sri Lanka I've felt like someone's interacting with me not because they want something from me but because they have a truly good heart and want to connect. Maybe because he spent some years in India, a culture so close yet, as I've painfully realized, so far in soul from Sri Lankan mentality and behavior. Anyway, tl;dr don't even consider any other place, this is the best value for money hotel in Dambulla, at the best location, and a place that will make you feel truly appreciated as a guest and a human, not just interested in for the money you carry in your wallet.

We were warmly welcomed by the owner, Lucky, with a refreshing glass of papaya juice upon arrival, setting the tone for a wonderful stay. During our visit, Lucky was always just a WhatsApp message away, providing prompt assistance whenever we needed help. When we struggled to figure out how to use the hot water, needed a hairdryer, or realized we didn’t have the right power adapter, Lucky immediately resolved all these issues with a smile. He also went the extra mile by giving us detailed instructions on how to visit Sigiriya (Lion Rock) and thoughtfully reminded us to set off early the next day to avoid long holiday queues. We even got packed Breakfast for our early trip in the morning. The property has its own restaurant with very affordable prices, and it’s a pity we didn’t get the chance to try their food. The thoughtful hospitality and helpful guidance made our stay truly enjoyable. A big thank you to Lucky for making our time here so seamless and memorable.

The place was immediately close to the bus station, very easy to reach. The property has a nice hall and balcony at the first floor. Breakfast is included and was served on a plate - no buffet. The room was clean and the price absolutely fair. However, the real added value of the place was Bob, which was very kind and useful: we could write on whatsapp and he would help with anything: organize a day trip with safari and transfer to Pidurangala (at a fair price!), dinner served at the room. He even organized a tuktuk to the closest clinic when one of us was not not feeling well. And he showed us the right spot to wait the bus and waited with us. Cannot recommend enough this place and the friendly Bob!

Great time at Milano Grand. The host is extremely helpful and friendly. We were served a huge breakfast each morning with different fruits, an omelette and lots of slices of toast. All was really good. The host helped us with organising day trips and giving us information on bus times. Definitely went above and beyond our expectations. Would recommend to anyone staying in Dambulla. We really enjoyed ourselves.

Perfect location, friendly staff, wonderful breakfast with wonderful fruit. The manager was always there for me, I couldn't ask for anything he wouldn't do for me. Excellent hospitality, he addressed the guests by name from the first moment and remembered every word I said to him, he knew where I had spent my day and asked about it when I returned to the hotel. I spent two nights here, but for me it was more than perfect.