"Very disappointed, the hotel looked lovely in the photos but reality was a different story. With the exception of one waiter none of the staff seemed to know what they were doing. The pool was filthy and the water was green. The room was shabby and in desperate need of a refurb, broken bathroom fixtures, hole in sheet, dirty curtains, broken tie-backs. Bar area was okay but at breakfast our table was covered in flies. Avoid this place at all costs "
"Offers a very relaxing and comfortable stay. Located outside of town (will need to take a Tuk Tuk) but a great location for peace and quiet. Breakfast is very good/filling and dinner offers a nice selection of food which was very good. Highly recommend."
"When I arrived I was told the hotel was closed. I took pictures to prove I was there as I had already paid through Expedia. I then had a ‘neighbour’ show up to ‘offer’ alternate accommodation at a very much more cost! The hotel is on a back street and when confronted with having to find an option on the day when I was hoping to visit the palace I conceded to the higher price. This was classic ‘bait & switch! Do not ever book this hotel!!!!"
"The name of the hotel was not correct. We spend more than 1 hour to find the right place. They clean our clothes for a fee and the clothes next day was wet. We paid through hotels.com and they didn't believe that we already paid the night... The place was not clean and smell strange. I didn't recommended ."
"It is a large hotel catering for many guests. Check in took time and front desk staff seem over worked. Restaurant staff are great and friendly. Good food selection and kid friendly. "
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Though Kaduruwela may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Parakrama Samudra.
Rent bicycles to explore the ancient city's massive Buddha statues, royal palaces, and intricately carved temples. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress nearby for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and archaeological wonders.
Ancient ruins and cultural wonders in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Polonnaruwa, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a captivating city with a rich history and stunning attractions. The city is renowned for its ancient temples and ruins, which offer a glimpse into its glorious past. The picturesque lake adds to the charm of this place, providing a tranquil setting for leisurely walks or boat rides. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of wildlife and the opportunity to explore the surrounding forests. The city's castle and cultural sites showcase the architectural brilliance of the bygone era. Additionally, Polonnaruwa is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with its scenic routes and pleasant weather. For those looking to relax by the beach, the coastal town of Pasikudah is just a short distance away. Polonnaruwa truly offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Top reasons to visit Polonnaruwa
Ancient Temples and Ruins: Polonnaruwa is renowned for its historical temples and ruins, offering a glimpse into its glorious past through exquisite stone carvings and ancient statues.
Picturesque Lake: The tranquil setting of Polonnaruwa's lake provides a serene backdrop for leisurely walks or boat rides.
Abundance of Wildlife: Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunity to explore the surrounding forests and witness the diverse wildlife in Polonnaruwa.
Majestic Castle and Cultural Sites: The city's castle and cultural sites showcase the architectural brilliance of the bygone era, adding to the historical charm of Polonnaruwa.
Biking Enthusiast's Paradise: Polonnaruwa offers scenic routes and pleasant weather, making it a great destination for biking enthusiasts to explore the city and its surroundings.
Find your hotel in Polonnaruwa
When visiting Polonnaruwa in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, you'll find a range of hotels to suit all preferences and budgets. Here are some popular options:
Hotel Sudu Araliya - This 3.5-star hotel offers a variety of amenities including a steamroom, childcare services, massage facilities, sauna, a beautiful lake, concierge service, fitness center, spa, sports activities, and a pool.
EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa - Also a 3.5-star hotel, it features a stunning lake view, massage services, a seafront location, concierge service, smoking area, spa, historical ambiance, room service, complimentary breakfast, and beautiful gardens.
Seyara Holiday Resort - A 3.0-star hotel offering childcare services, a cozy fireplace, romantic atmosphere, biking facilities, outdoor pool, room service, swimming facilities, recreational activities, a pool, and business amenities.
Staying in Polonnaruwa allows you to explore its rich history and archaeological sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a range of hotel options available, you can find the perfect accommodation for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this culturally significant city.
Explore the best places to visit and stay in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, offers a range of exciting areas and neighborhoods for tourists to explore.
Kaduruwela: This area is a great destination for history enthusiasts, with its historical sites, temples, and ruins. Nature lovers will also appreciate the beautiful lake and wildlife in the area. Additionally, Kaduruwela offers opportunities for biking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Pasikudah Coastal Town: Situated on the eastern coast, this town is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's the perfect spot for relaxation and water activities such as swimming and snorkeling.
Polonnaruwa Online: This area is well-located in Polonnaruwa and offers a nice base for exploring the city. Visitors can easily access the city's attractions, including the ancient ruins and historical sites.
Polonnaruwa City: As the main city in the region, Polonnaruwa offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. Tourists can explore the ancient city ruins, visit museums, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Each area in Polonnaruwa has its own unique geographic features, landmarks, and local experiences, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with adventure and relaxation.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, offers a unique experience with its historical temples, ruins, serene lake, nature, wildlife, majestic castle, rich culture, and biking opportunities.
Gal Viharaya: Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural significance of this temple, adorned with exquisite stone carvings and ancient statues.
Rankot Vihara: Explore the grandeur of this ancient temple, known for its towering white dagoba and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Gal Pota: Marvel at the massive stone book, believed to be the largest book inscription in the world, providing a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness the grandeur of Pramakamabahu Palace, indulge in delicious local cuisine, experience a traditional ceremony, and embark on a thrilling safari in Maduruoya National Park. Finally, relax and enjoy the tranquility of the vast Parakrama Samudraya, a picturesque lake that adds to the charm of Polonnaruwa.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Polonnaruwa
Explore the historical sites, ancient temples, and fascinating ruins in Polonnaruwa, which are a must-visit for any tourist.
Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake in Polonnaruwa and indulge in activities like boating and fishing.
Immerse yourself in the wildlife and nature of Polonnaruwa by visiting the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the castle and experience the rich culture of Polonnaruwa.
Rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace and take in the scenic views of Polonnaruwa.
To save on travel expenses, consider visiting Polonnaruwa during the off-peak season when prices for flights, hotels, and attractions may be lower.
Take advantage of budget-friendly transportation options such as local buses or trains to get around Polonnaruwa.
Follow Expedia's website for regular updates and discounts on hotels and travel deals in Polonnaruwa.
Discover the flavours of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa offers a delightful dining experience with its local cuisine and unique dishes. Immerse yourself in the rich flavours and aromas of traditional Sri Lankan dishes, such as hoppers, kottu roti, and string hoppers. Indulge in a mouthwatering array of curries, including chicken, fish, and vegetable curries, bursting with spices and herbs. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the local specialty, Polonnaruwa rice and curry, which showcases the region's unique culinary heritage.
When it comes to dining in Polonnaruwa, there are several popular restaurants that offer a variety of culinary styles. Pizza Hut පොලොන්නරුව is a pizzeria where you can enjoy delicious pizzas with a local twist. Saruketha is an Asian restaurant that serves authentic Sri Lankan and Indian dishes, providing a truly immersive dining experience. If you're in the mood for a buffet, Hotel Mahanuge offers a wide range of delectable dishes for you to feast on. These restaurants ensure that you can savor the flavours of Polonnaruwa while enjoying a memorable dining experience.
Best time to go to Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa boasts a year-around average temperature of 27.9°C, peaking at 28.9°C in April, May, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 27.2°C in January, October, November, December, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 149.0mm annually, with August seeing the heaviest showers and February being the driest month.
Month
Temperature (Celcius)
Rainfall (mm)
January
27.2
91.4
February
27.8
53.3
March
28.4
87.6
April
28.9
118.1
May
28.9
101.6
June
28.1
163.8
July
28.0
302.3
August
28.0
305.8
September
27.7
147.3
October
27.2
116.8
November
27.2
160.0
December
27.2
139.7
The Polonnaruwa info point: What you need to know
Category
Details
Location
Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Historical Importance
Former capital of Sri Lanka, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Attractions
Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site, Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, Rankoth Vehera
Best Time to Visit
February to April, September to November
Duration of Visit
1-2 days
Weather
Hot and dry climate, monsoon season from October to January
Transportation
Tuk-tuks, bicycles, private vehicles
Accommodation
Hotels, guesthouses, eco-lodges
Local Cuisine
Rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, kottu roti
Nearby Places of Interest
Minneriya National Park, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Polonnaruwa has to offer?
Border: This holiday home rental outside of Polonnaruwa offers a terrace, a private garden and daily housekeeping to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. This holiday rental also comes with free parking to give you added peace of mind. See all vacation rentals in Polonnaruwa.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Polonnaruwa, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Polonnaruwa.
What's the best place to stay on a budget in Polonnaruwa?
What's the best family accommodation in Polonnaruwa?
Hotel Sudu Araliya is a hotel with a children's pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Also, attractions in the area such as Mahaweli Play Ground are fun for the whole family. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Polonnaruwa.
What's the best dog-friendly hotel in Polonnaruwa?
Hotel Sudu Araliya is a top spa hotel featuring a fitness centre, a bar, an outdoor pool and a restaurant. Treat yourself to a massage, steam room or sauna at Ayurveda, Unani Retreat and Spa. See all spa hotels in Polonnaruwa.
What's staying in Polonnaruwa like?
Visitors to Polonnaruwa will definitely enjoy the lakeside setting. Tourists can also enjoy so much more including its temples. In Polonnaruwa, there are 40 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Polonnaruwa.
The hottest months are usually April and May, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 24°C. The rainiest months in Polonnaruwa are November, December, October and January, with each month seeing an average of 243 mm of rainfall.
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