Ancient stone columns and intricate carvings in a historical site.

Polonnaruwa Hotels

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Our top choices for Polonnaruwa hotels

1. Risenlak Holiday Resort

Risenlak Holiday Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (21 reviews)
"Very good aircon, nice airy room. Breakfast served on the verandah at the time of your choice. Within walking distance of town. Owner lives downstairs and is very friendly and helpful. "
Australia
Graeme
The price is ₹1,215
₹1,449 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Risenlak Holiday Resort

2. Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge

Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4 reviews)
"TrĆØs bon spot pour faire les visites "
France
SƩbastien
The price is ₹1,535
₹2,070 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge

3. Green Kingdom Resort

Green Kingdom Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is ₹1,759
₹2,109 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Green Kingdom Resort

4. Seyara Holiday Resort

Seyara Holiday Resort
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (24 reviews)
"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."
United States
Maxwell
The price is ₹1,326
₹1,765 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jul - 29 Jul
Seyara Holiday Resort

5. Hotel Mahanuge

Hotel Mahanuge
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
3.4 out of 10, (3 reviews)
"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 "
United Kingdom
Christine
The price is ₹4,047
₹5,290 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Hotel Mahanuge

6. Hotel Sudu Araliya

Hotel Sudu Araliya
3.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
7.2 out of 10, Good, (52 reviews)
"Great hotel nice staff friendly and helpful! Will return again for sure! Highly recommended!"
United Kingdom
Dilan
The price is ₹4,649
₹6,233 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Hotel Sudu Araliya

7. Sudu Neluma Home Stay

Sudu Neluma Home Stay
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2 reviews)
"Love the service, location and the competitive pricing. There are cheaper ones out there for sure but the service here is excellent. Though you may not need the mosquito net provided, I used it and felt comfortable. There’s no AC but I didn’t need it as the temp was cool at night. I would book it again for sure."
United States
Thavrith
The price is ₹1,072
₹1,281 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Sudu Neluma Home Stay

8. Wood Side Tour Inn

Wood Side Tour Inn
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is ₹2,223
₹2,658 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jul - 26 Jul
Wood Side Tour Inn

9. Rock Cascade Homestay

Rock Cascade Homestay
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
7.4 out of 10, Good, (8 reviews)
"I have no idea why people have rated this place so high. I chose this place because she claimed to have wifi. She does not have wifi. She has a cellphone with a hotspot that she never turns on. If she does turn it on, it doesn't work when she takes the phone with her when she leaves. She also turns the phone off when she goes to sleep. I told her twice that I needed the internet to make a very important phone call late at night. She forgot. Turned off her cellphone. I had no internet,...
United States
DAVID
The price is ₹1,326
₹1,765 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Rock Cascade Homestay

10. EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa

EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa
3.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (53 reviews)
"The room, food and view was amazing šŸ‘šŸ‘"
Denmark
Merethe
The price is ₹16,968
₹22,503 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa

11. Kamatha Resort

Kamatha Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is ₹2,009
₹2,607 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jul - 26 Jul
Kamatha Resort

12. Hotel Dunhinda

Hotel Dunhinda
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is ₹3,147
₹4,085 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jul - 26 Jul
Hotel Dunhinda

13. Wildescape Polonnaruwa

Wildescape Polonnaruwa
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is ₹42,371
₹55,839 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Aug - 2 Aug
Wildescape Polonnaruwa

14. Nadun Rest

Nadun Rest
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
4.0 out of 10, (2 reviews)
"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 ."
American Samoa
Carmen
The price is ₹1,736
₹2,274 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jul - 26 Jul
Nadun Rest

15. Thidas Arana

Thidas Arana
3.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (11 reviews)
"Placeringen fin til kulturel sightseeing - men lƄ tƦt pƄ hovedvej"
Denmark
Lis
The price is ₹6,635
₹8,691 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jul - 29 Jul
Thidas Arana

16. SSC VIlla

SSC VIlla
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
2.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"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 ā€˜neighbour’ show up to ā€˜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 ā€˜bait & switch! Do not ever book this hotel!!!!"
Canada
David
The price is ₹1,534
₹1,828 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Jul - 1 Aug
SSC VIlla

17. Kumari Resort

Kumari Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
2.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"This is NOT a hotel, NOR a resort. Kumari is a princess name, alas nothing royal about this rooms for rent / guest house. No toilet nor shower in room."
United States
Hagai
The price is ₹1,013
₹1,353 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Kumari Resort

18. Dilshan Guest House

Dilshan Guest House
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is ₹4,193,604
₹5,027,623 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Jul - 1 Aug
Dilshan Guest House

19. Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari

Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari
4.0 star property
Sigiriya
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2 reviews)
"Wir haben 2 Tage in der Unterkunft verbracht. Gleich bei der Ankunft wurden wir liebevoll und herzlich begrüßt. Dieses Gefühl ist während des Aufenthalts durchgehend beibehalten worden. Sowohl der herzliche und super leckere Kochkurs als auch das Organisieren einer super schönen Safari. Die Familie hat uns durchgehend wohlfühlen lassen und wir würden diese jedem Weiterempfehlen!"
Germany
Mark
The price is ₹1,882
₹2,241 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari

20. Rio Lake Hotel Sigiriya

Rio Lake Hotel Sigiriya
3.0 star property
Habarana
The price is ₹1,539
₹1,831 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jul - 26 Jul
Rio Lake Hotel Sigiriya
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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Where to stay in Polonnaruwa

Find the best Polonnaruwa areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Polonnaruwa
Learn more about Polonnaruwa

Kaduruwela

Though Kaduruwela may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya.

Stay near popular Polonnaruwa attractions

Learn more about Polonnaruwa

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 stone ruins with a seated Buddha statue, intricate carvings, and a circular stone platform.

Top Polonnaruwa Hotel Reviews

Hotels in Polonnaruwa with star rating

Find out more about Polonnaruwa

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 ą¶“ą·œą¶½ą·œą¶±ą·Šą¶±ą¶»ą·”ą·€ 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.

Monthcalendar iconTemperature (Celcius)temperature iconRainfall (mm)rain icon
January27.291.4
February27.853.3
March28.487.6
April28.9118.1
May28.9101.6
June28.1163.8
July28.0302.3
August28.0305.8
September27.7147.3
October27.2116.8
November27.2160.0
December27.2139.7

The nearest major airports for your trip to Polonnaruwa

Reaching Polonnaruwa is convenient via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), situated 150km away. Nearby, you’ll find excellent hotel options such as Sentido Heritance Negombo, a 5-star hotel located 8km from the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is located 10km from CMB, providing easy access to the airport. Additionally, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, an adults-only luxury resort, is just 6km away and offers similar transport facilities. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay and seamless transfers to the airport, making your journey to Polonnaruwa hassle-free.

The Polonnaruwa info point: What you need to know

Category
Details
LocationPolonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Historical ImportanceFormer capital of Sri Lanka, UNESCO World Heritage Site
AttractionsPolonnaruwa Archaeological Site, Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, Rankoth Vehera
Best Time to VisitFebruary to April, September to November
Duration of Visit1-2 days
WeatherHot and dry climate, monsoon season from October to January
TransportationTuk-tuks, bicycles, private vehicles
AccommodationHotels, guesthouses, eco-lodges
Local CuisineRice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, kottu roti
Nearby Places of InterestMinneriya National Park, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to stay in Polonnaruwa?
Based on our traveller data, Hotel Sudu Araliya is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel offers a full-service spa and a restaurant. Other good options for your visit include EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa and Seyara Holiday Resort. See all available top hotels, or 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?
Based on our traveller reviews, Nildiya Lanka Holiday Resort - Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels 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?
Seyara Holiday Resort is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers a restaurant and free WiFi for its human guests. Two other good options for you and your pet include Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge and SSC VIlla. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Polonnaruwa.
What are some hotels with pools in Polonnaruwa?
Hotel Sudu Araliya: Features a children's pool, an outdoor pool and a full-service spa. EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa and Seyara Holiday Resort are a couple of other choices that feature an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Polonnaruwa.
What is the best spa 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 44 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Polonnaruwa.
What are the top places to visit in Polonnaruwa?
Landmarks like Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Buddha Seema Prasada and Lankatilaka Temple might be worth a visit. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Gal Pota. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Polonnaruwa guide.
What's the weather like in 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.