Great question — “best for the price” usually means hotels that give strong location/comfort/amenities for a reasonable nightly rate. Below are well‑reviewed Kandy options across budget levels (budget → mid → upscale), with why they’re good value and an approximate nightly range to expect. I’ve cited recent review/booking pages so you can check live rates for your dates.

Top value picks in Kandy

• Grand Serendib Hotel — Budget / very good value

  • Why: consistently high guest scores for cleanliness and service at budget prices; simple rooms, pool and free parking make it a dependable, low‑cost choice.
  • Typical price: often around USD 40–90/night (varies by season). (tripadvisor.com)

• Viyana Boutique Hotel — Budget / central lakefront value

  • Why: lake‑front location within easy walking distance of the Temple of the Tooth, good staff reviews and strong “value for money” ratings. Great if you want a central base without paying premium hotel prices.
  • Typical price: often around USD 40–90/night. (booking.com)

• Radisson Hotel Kandy (OZO Kandy) — Mid-range chain, strong value

  • Why: reliable international brand, rooftop/bar with lake views, modern rooms and frequent promotional rates make it good value for a mid‑range stay. Convenient for sightseeing.
  • Typical price: often around USD 60–150/night depending on offers. (expedia.com)

• The Trees Kandy — Mid-range boutique (excellent value for a nicer stay)

  • Why: new/modern boutique hotel with rooftop pool and excellent city/lake views; high guest ratings for cleanliness and service — good pick if you want boutique comfort without top luxury pricing.
  • Typical price: often around USD 90–160/night. (booking.com)

• The Radh — Central boutique (good mid-value)

  • Why: very central (short walk to Temple of the Tooth), modern rooms and positive service reviews; well suited for short cultural visits where location matters.
  • Typical price: mid‑range (rates vary). (tripadvisor.com)

• Mahaweli Reach Hotel — Upscale but often good value for what you get

  • Why: 4–5 star riverside property with established reputation; guests say it’s a comfortable luxury option that can be reasonably priced in non‑peak periods. Good if you want an upscale stay without ultra‑premium pricing.
  • Typical price: often around USD 120–250/night (watch for seasonal deals). (booking.com)

• Earl’s Regency — Upscale resort outside town (value when discounted)

  • Why: large 5‑star property with pool, spa and spacious rooms — good for families or those who want resort facilities; watch for promotions that lower the nightly cost substantially.
  • Typical price: often USD 80–300/night (wide range because of promotions). (booking.com)

Quick booking tips for best value

• Compare Booking.com / Agoda / Expedia + the hotel’s official site — prices and cancellation terms change often; sometimes the hotel’s site has special packages. (Examples cited above are from Booking/Expedia pages). (booking.com)
• Off‑peak months: rates in Kandy are often lower in May–June and in September (peak is around Aug & December–January). Booking about 3–6 weeks ahead often helps. (expedia.com)
• Check total price (taxes/service charges) before finalizing — Sri Lankan hotels often add VAT/service/city taxes at checkout. Many reviewers note extra charges on food/drinks, so verify inclusions. (booking.com)

If you tell me:

• your budget per night (USD), and
• whether you prefer to be in the historic center (near the Temple and lake) or on the hillside for views/quiet, I’ll give a tight shortlist of 3–4 best options for those exact needs and compare current approximate rates for your dates.