Follies started as creations that were often useless but unusual, such as towers or buildings typically found in the grounds of stately homes. Their owners competed to build the biggest or most impractical folly. Many are completely out of sync with their surroundings.

Over time, follies have extended beyond gardens and stately homes. People still construct bizarre structures or invest in mystical creations that others might consider hideous. Some follies come about because people get carried away or don't have all the facts. Follies are not always funny – some only reveal their folly in hindsight, and others can be expensive, repetitive, life-changing, and more. My biggest folly was investing in a beautiful vineyard in the valley near the Nandi Hills, an hour outside Bangalore. (More on that in another story.) I once even stayed in a folly in New Zealand – a reconstruction of a quirky log cabin.

In Sri Lanka, I’d be interested to know if there are other known follies beyond Helga's Folly in Kandy. Every year, for two decades, I've taken a small group (or more) to Helga's Folly in Kandy.

On this visit, I was taken aback by how dramatically the place has changed. The number of rooms have increased, and you can now officially visit the upper floor and the pool deck, which has always had a large gargoyle statue. The entire place is bizarre, spooky, cluttered, weird, and full of madness. It is, however, much cleaner than it used to be.

The story of the host's extended family is presented on numerous walls via old photos, memorabilia, etc. Many items however seem irrelevant to Helga. The rooms, doors, and ceilings have been painted by both budding and famous artists. There are masses of skeletons, bizarre artwork, candles, and artifacts. On one visit, I even used my ghost app to check if any old souls were lingering, but it only picked up animals.

On a more serious note, there is a small area dedicated to an American lady, a close acquaintance of Helga, who was murdered. The space ensures she will never be forgotten.

There are now three outside areas to explore at Helga's. He described it as “an Anti-Hotel.”. I personally wouldn’t stay overnight. However, some quirky, adventurous people might. My suggestion: book overnight, check the room, and then decide. I’m sure it’s inexpensive for Kandy.

On one occasion, we ordered a bottle of wine and invited Helga to join us. She descended the stairs as though she had just won an Oscar – a tall, slim, elegant lady who belied her age. She has hosted the likes of Gregory Peck, Gandhi, and William Holden.

Don’t be surprised if, after your visit, you find yourself with fifty photos to share. Most of my Sri Lankan friends are either unaware of the place or have no desire to visit. Helga's Folly is easy to find via satnav and is just a few minutes from the Kandy lake. When you visit, there is a small fee to enter, along with a full story of the amazing family Helga belongs to. Don’t, however, expect her to make an appearance.