Here are top semi‑luxury / upscale (4‑star boutique to lower‑5‑star) hotels in Kandy—good balance of comfort, character and value, each with what makes it stand out:

• Cinnamon Citadel Kandy — riverside property with pleasant gardens, pool, spa and reliable brand standards; well suited for scenic, quiet stays. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Hotel Suisse (Kandy) — historic/heritage 4‑star hotel near the lake and Temple of the Tooth; good if you want a central location with old‑world character. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Mahaweli Reach Hotel — long‑established upscale hotel on the Mahaweli River with multiple dining options and conference facilities; a solid comfortable choice near town. (en.wikipedia.org)

• The Grand Kandyan — modern, upscale hotel in the heart of Kandy with rooftop pool and panoramic views; popular for both tourists and business travelers. (Note: guest reviews vary — check recent feedback for service/condition). (grandkandyan.com)

• Earl’s Regency (Kundasale, just outside Kandy) — large upscale/resort hotel with good facilities and views of the hills; convenient if you don’t mind a short drive from the city center. (Check latest reviews/prices before booking.) (tripadvisor.com.ph)

• Helga’s Folly — iconic, highly idiosyncratic boutique “anti‑hotel” with art‑filled rooms; great for travelers wanting a unique, characterful stay rather than conventional luxury. (en.wikipedia.org)

• The Manor House / Nugawela Mansion (near Kandy) — small boutique heritage stay in an old walauwa (manor) for a historical, intimate experience a short drive from central Kandy. (en.wikipedia.org)

Quick tips

• If you want easy access to the Temple of the Tooth and lakefront dining, prioritize central properties (Hotel Suisse, Grand Kandyan).
• For river/green views and a quieter feel choose Cinnamon Citadel or Mahaweli Reach.
• For a singular boutique experience pick Helga’s Folly or the Manor House.
• Always check recent guest reviews and confirm facilities (pool, shuttle, restaurant) and exact location before booking — Kandy hotels can vary by season and recent refurbishment status. (Links above include official pages and recent reviews.) (en.wikipedia.org)

If you’d like, I can:

• Narrow this to hotels within X km of the Temple of the Tooth,
• Compare prices/availability for specific dates, or
• Show top picks with direct booking links and latest guest rating summaries.