Find hotels in Polonnaruwa from Rp240.041

Top reasons to visit Polonnaruwa

• Ancient Ruins: Explore the remarkable archaeological sites, including the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich history.
• Cultural Significance: Visit iconic landmarks such as the clock tower and central area that highlight the city's cultural heritage.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the serene beauty of Polonnaruwa's surroundings, perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets, offering a taste of authentic Sri Lankan culture.
• Variety of Accommodations: Choose from delightful hotels and guesthouses to enhance your stay in this historic city.

Find great hotels near Polonnaruwa

Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Polonnaruwa, where both hotels and guesthouses cater to a variety of travellers. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a pet-friendly stay, or facilities tailored for business travel, you'll find suitable options to enhance your experience. Explore the charming essence of this historic city while enjoying the comforts of your chosen hotel in Polonnaruwa.

• Hotel Sigiriya: Nestled 27km from Polonnaruwa, Hotel Sigiriya is a 4-star resort offering a tranquil retreat for both business travellers and those seeking a spa-themed vacation experience. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel features an extensive spa and pool service, including massage therapies and an accessible pool. Guests can unwind at the poolside bar, ensuring a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to rejuvenate after exploring the area.
• Sigiriya Village: Also located 27km from Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Village is a charming 4-star hotel rated 8.4 out of 10 by guests. This property boasts a variety of dining options, including special gala dinners for festive occasions. For the active traveller, the hotel offers recreational activities such as hiking and biking nearby. With entertainment options including billiards and multiple televisions, guests can unwind after a day of exploration, all while enjoying views of the captivating local landscape.
• EKHO Sigiriya: Situated 27km from Polonnaruwa, EKHO Sigiriya is a well-rated 3.5-star hotel, receiving an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel provides a selection of dining options, including a bar and continental breakfast, catering to various tastes. Guests can partake in local hiking and biking adventures, ensuring that the spirit of exploration continues throughout their stay. The welcoming atmosphere and array of amenities make this hotel a delightful choice for visitors to the region.

Where to stay in and around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, a historic city in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, offers a captivating blend of adventure and culture. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, vibrant local markets, and the serene beauty of its landscapes. The region is known for its rustic charm and friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking both immersive luxury and authentic experiences. Nearby attractions further enhance your stay, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this remarkable destination.

• Giritale: Nestled approximately 11km from Polonnaruwa, Giritale is a charming city known for its stunning outdoor experiences and adventure opportunities. The area attracts a moderate number of travellers, particularly during the peak months of December to February. Visitors are drawn to Giritale for its breathtaking scenery and accessible recreational areas. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby national park and national state park, along with a notable art museum that showcases local culture and artistry. Giritale is an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation amidst nature's beauty.
• New Town: Located within the vicinity of Polonnaruwa, New Town is a quaint village offering an inviting atmosphere for tourists. The travel experience here is enhanced by the area's seasonal influx of visitors, particularly peaking from December to February. Known for its adventure and scenic landscapes, New Town is surrounded by beautiful beaches and national parks, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The village's serene environment allows for a peaceful retreat, where one can immerse in nature while enjoying the local attractions and picturesque views.
• Jayanthipura: Another lovely village in the Polonnaruwa area, Jayanthipura is renowned for its eco-friendly approach and outdoor adventures. The village experiences a similar seasonal pattern in traveller arrivals, with peak visitation from December to February. Jayanthipura is a haven for nature lovers, featuring a remarkable nature reserve and impressive monuments that highlight the region's rich history. This village offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it an excellent choice for those looking to connect with the natural world while exploring Sri Lanka's heritage.

Things to do in Polonnaruwa

Shopping

In Polonnaruwa, visit the local markets for handicrafts, spices, and traditional Sri Lankan souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Dambulla Central Bus Stand, over 16km away, where you can find a variety of shops and local goods to take home.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Ayurveda Spa, where traditional treatments and herbal therapies harmonise mind and body. Explore the serene surroundings while participating in yoga sessions at a nearby retreat, offering tranquillity and a connection to nature.

Adventure

Explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa by cycling through the archaeological park, discovering temples and sculptures that showcase Sri Lanka's rich history. Alternatively, take a boat safari on Parakrama Samudra, observing diverse wildlife and enjoying the serene landscape around the expansive reservoir.

Nightlife

In Polonnaruwa, explore the vibrant local scene with a visit to the charming Green Heart Café for live music or unwind at the lively Pub Lounge Bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and mingle with locals, soaking in the unique atmosphere of Sri Lankan nightlife.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Polonnaruwa

To save money on your trip to Polonnaruwa, consider visiting during the cheaper months of June and September to October, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays tend to be the least expensive days for accommodation, while Mondays are typically pricier. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options by filtering for your preferences and sorting results from lowest to highest. Additionally, look for last-minute deals and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Polonnaruwa are June and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Polonnaruwa about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Polonnaruwa is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Polonnaruwa is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on your trip by combining your hotel booking in Polonnaruwa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa offers an enriching experience for tourists seeking outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the medieval city, delve into the archaeological marvels at the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, and learn about the region's history at the archaeological museum. Don’t miss the iconic clock tower and the central area, which highlight the area’s cultural significance. This destination is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

• Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the ancient city. It showcases artefacts and exhibits that highlight the cultural and archaeological significance of Polonnaruwa, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the past.
• Polonnaruwa Vatadage: An exquisite example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture, this temple is renowned for its circular design and intricately carved stone pillars. The serene atmosphere and beautifully maintained surroundings make it a perfect place for reflection and admiration of the historical craftsmanship.
• Gal Pota: Known as the Stone Book, Gal Pota is a significant historic site featuring an ancient stone slab inscribed with Buddhist texts. Its imposing presence and historical importance provide insight into the literary and religious practices of the era.

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

Flying into Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is easily done via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located 150km away. Excellent hotel options in proximity to the airport include Sentido Heritance Negombo, a 5-star hotel situated 8km away, offering airport shuttle services. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is located 10km from the airport, also providing convenient access. Additionally, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, is just 6km from CMB, with nearby transportation services available. All these hotels ensure a comfortable stay with easy access to Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike Intl.) for your travels to Polonnaruwa.