Find hotels in Polonnaruwa from ₩10,519

Top reasons to visit Polonnaruwa

• Ancient Ruins: Explore remarkable sites like the Vatadage and the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich history.
• Scenic Landscapes: Experience stunning scenery and lush surroundings, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this historic city.
• Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses.
• Convenient Location: Use Polonnaruwa as a base to explore nearby attractions, enhancing your travel experience.

Find great hotels near Polonnaruwa

Discover a variety of lodging options in Polonnaruwa, from comfortable hotels to inviting guesthouses. Whether you’re traveling for business or seeking a family-friendly vacation, you'll find accommodations that cater to your needs. Enjoy pet-friendly options and essential amenities while exploring this historic city. With numerous hotels in Polonnaruwa, you’re sure to find the perfect place to relax and unwind during your stay.

• Hotel Sigiriya: Nestled within a tranquil setting, Hotel Sigiriya is a 4-star resort that caters to both business travelers and vacationers seeking relaxation. Located 27km from Polonnaruwa, this hotel features a full-service spa that offers a variety of treatments, ensuring guests can unwind after a day of exploration. The property includes an adult-supervised pool and sun loungers, making it an excellent choice for those looking to bask in the sun. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the hotel is well-regarded for its amenities and serene atmosphere, creating a perfect balance between work and leisure.
• Sigiriya Village: Offering a unique experience, Sigiriya Village is a 4-star hotel that immerses guests in the local culture and environment. Situated 27km from Polonnaruwa, this property boasts dining options that include a bar and various gala events throughout the year. The hotel provides recreational activities such as hiking and biking nearby, ideal for adventure enthusiasts. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, guests appreciate the engaging entertainment options like billiards and multiple television sets. The surrounding area features stunning historical sites and national parks, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
• EKHO Sigiriya: EKHO Sigiriya is a charming 3.5-star hotel located just 27km from Polonnaruwa, featuring a blend of modern comfort and local flavor. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a cozy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and bar, as well as a daily breakfast service. The property also promotes outdoor activities, with hiking and biking available nearby. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on local adventures, EKHO Sigiriya provides a welcoming retreat.

Where to stay in and around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is a captivating destination that beautifully blends history and adventure. Explore its ancient ruins and lush landscapes, where rustic charm meets immersive luxury. The region offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly locals, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Conveniently located, Polonnaruwa serves as an excellent base for discovering nearby attractions, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience in this historic city.

• Giritale: Nestled 11km from Polonnaruwa, Giritale offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. This city attracts moderately seasonal travelers, with peak visits from December to February. Here, you can explore a variety of recreational areas and engage in activities that highlight the region's natural beauty. Notable attractions include the nearby national park and art museum, making Giritale a perfect spot for those seeking both relaxation and exploration in the great outdoors.
• New Town: Located within the vicinity of Polonnaruwa, New Town is a charming village that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes. Like Giritale, New Town experiences a seasonal influx of visitors, peaking between December and February. Travelers flock here for its outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, with local attractions including beautiful beaches and national parks that invite exploration. This village serves as an excellent base for enjoying the area's natural wonders while soaking in the local culture.
• Jayanthipura: Also situated near Polonnaruwa, Jayanthipura is a quaint village that emphasizes eco-friendly experiences and outdoor activities. With a seasonal visitor pattern similar to its neighbors, Jayanthipura attracts adventure seekers eager to explore its monuments and nature reserves. The abundance of green spaces and wildlife in this area makes it a haven for eco-tourists and nature lovers alike, ensuring a memorable experience amidst Sri Lanka's captivating landscapes.

Things to do in Polonnaruwa

Shopping

In Polonnaruwa, explore local markets like the Polonnaruwa Market for fresh produce and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the historic city of Anuradhapura, about 64km away, where you'll find larger shopping centers like the Liberty Plaza for a wider selection of souvenirs.

Recreation

In Polonnaruwa, the luxurious Amaya Lake offers rejuvenating spa treatments surrounded by serene landscapes. Experience traditional Ayurvedic therapies that promote relaxation and wellness. Nearby, explore the scenic beauty of the ancient ruins, combining cultural immersion with tranquil moments in nature.

Adventure

Explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, where you can bike through historical sites like the Gal Vihara and the Royal Palace. For an adventurous twist, enjoy a safari in Minneriya National Park, where you might encounter elephants in their natural habitat amidst stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

In Polonnaruwa, the vibrant nightlife includes lively local bars where you can enjoy Sri Lankan drinks and music. The area also features night markets, offering a taste of local cuisine and crafts, creating an engaging atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring.

Find the best attractions in Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, a treasure trove for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offers stunning scenery alongside rich cultural experiences. Visitors can explore significant sites such as the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, the ancient Vatadage, and the medieval city itself. With its fascinating ruins and archaeological wonders, Polonnaruwa is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka's history and heritage, making it one of the best attractions in the region.

• Polonnaruwa Vatadage: This ancient circular relic house showcases exquisite stone craftsmanship and intricate carvings, embodying the grandeur of Sri Lankan architecture. A serene atmosphere surrounds this sacred site, inviting visitors to reflect on the rich history and spirituality of the area.
• Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's archaeological heritage, featuring artifacts that tell the story of Polonnaruwa's past. Engaging exhibits provide context to the ruins nearby, enhancing your understanding of this historical city.
• Gal Pota: Known as the Stone Book, this unique historic site features an impressive granite slab inscribed with ancient texts. Its monumental presence captures the essence of Sri Lanka's literary history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Polonnaruwa

The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May and June are its hottest month on average. At the time of June, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	81.1°F (27.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	81.5°F (27.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	81.1°F (27.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	81.0°F (27.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Polonnaruwa

Traveling to Polonnaruwa is convenient if you fly into Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 150km away. A few excellent hotel options near the airport include the 5-star Sentido Heritance Negombo, situated 8km from CMB, which offers airport shuttle services. Another option is Jetwing Beach, also a 5-star hotel, located 10km from the airport and easily accessible. For a more luxurious stay, consider Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a 5-star adults-only resort just 6km away, providing similar transportation options. These hotels ensure a smooth transition from your flight to your destination in Polonnaruwa.