Find hotels in Polonnaruwa from Rp301.410

Top reasons to visit Polonnaruwa

• Historical Significance: Polonnaruwa is home to ancient temples and archaeological sites, reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
• Scenic Landscapes: The city offers stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
• Cultural Experience: Engage with vibrant local traditions and explore the charming village atmosphere.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from guesthouses to hotels, ensures a comfortable stay for all travellers.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy a variety of recreational activities and shopping, catering to thrill-seekers.

Find great hotels in and around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, ranging from charming guesthouses to well-equipped hotels tailored for business travellers and families alike. You'll find various facilities and services, including pet-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay. Whether you seek a serene retreat or a convenient base for exploring the area's rich history, Polonnaruwa has the perfect lodging to meet your needs.

• Siyanco Holiday Resort: Nestled in the historical heart of Polonnaruwa, Siyanco Holiday Resort offers a charming 3.5-star retreat for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. The resort features a variety of dining options, including a 24-hour restaurant, perfect for those who wish to savour local flavours at any hour. With its lush surroundings and warm hospitality, guests can unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.
• Hotel Sudu Araliya: Ideal for families and business travellers alike, Hotel Sudu Araliya is a welcoming 3.5-star hotel located in Polonnaruwa. This property prides itself on its family-friendly amenities, including a dedicated playground and free onsite childcare services, ensuring that younger guests are entertained and cared for. The hotel also offers a comfortable environment for business travellers, making it a versatile choice for various types of visits.
• Giritale Hotel: Situated a mere 11.3km from Polonnaruwa, Giritale Hotel stands out as a refined 4-star establishment catering to business travellers. With its modern facilities and tranquil setting, guests can expect a harmonious blend of comfort and professionalism. The hotel offers a serene environment conducive to work and relaxation alike, making it an excellent choice for those combining business with leisure in this picturesque region.

Where to stay in and around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa offers an enchanting blend of history and culture, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore the ancient village and the renowned archaeological sites that showcase the rich heritage of the region. Nearby, the Anuradhapura District invites you to delve deeper into Sri Lanka's past. With its friendly atmosphere and captivating scenery, Polonnaruwa promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• New Town: Nestled in the vicinity of Polonnaruwa, New Town offers a quaint village atmosphere perfect for those seeking a relaxing getaway. With a moderately seasonal influx of travellers, the peak periods in August and December to January create a lively yet tranquil experience. Visitors come to enjoy the serene beach, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shoreline. The local charm, combined with the natural beauty of the beach, makes New Town a delightful retreat for those looking to unwind amidst stunning coastal scenery.
• Jayanthipura: Located approximately 6.4km from Polonnaruwa, Jayanthipura is a village rich in adventure and eco-friendly experiences. The seasonal visitor patterns mirror those of New Town, with peaks in August and December to January, attracting outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the lush surroundings. Here, travellers can engage in various outdoor activities, immerse themselves in nature, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Jayanthipura stands out as a destination for those looking to connect with the environment and partake in thrilling adventures.
• Giritale: A charming city situated 11.3km away from Polonnaruwa, Giritale is known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With a similar seasonal travel trend, it attracts visitors primarily in the peak months of August and December to January. Giritale offers a variety of activities, including access to shopping centres and recreational areas, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The nearby beach and national park provide ample opportunities for both leisure and adventure, ensuring that every traveller can find something to enjoy in this picturesque locale.

Things to do near Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty for travellers. Engage in various activities such as exploring shopping centres and recreational areas, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. With abundant adventure opportunities, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture while enjoying the stunning landscapes of this historic city.

Shopping

In Polonnaruwa, visit the local markets for unique souvenirs like traditional handicrafts and spices. If you're up for a drive, check out the Gal Oya National Park area, about 19.3km away, where you can find more extensive shopping options, including local artisan shops and boutiques.

Recreation

Mahaweli Playground offers a vibrant outdoor experience, perfect for families seeking recreational activities amidst nature. For sports enthusiasts, the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere, hosting various sporting events and activities that invigorate the spirit and promote well-being.

Adventure

In Polonnaruwa, explore the ancient ruins by cycling through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, discovering magnificent temples and statues. For a thrill, embark on a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park, where you can witness elephants in their natural habitat amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

In Polonnaruwa, the nightlife is tranquil yet engaging, with local eateries offering traditional cuisine and charming cafés for evening relaxation. The vibrant atmosphere at the nearby cultural performances showcases Sri Lankan music and dance, creating a unique experience under the stars.

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 enchanting blend of outdoor adventure and rich scenery, making it an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore numerous temples, historic sites, and archaeological wonders that reflect the area's vibrant heritage. Whether you're keen on delving into the past or simply enjoying the beautiful landscapes, Polonnaruwa promises an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.

• Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich history of Polonnaruwa, showcasing a variety of artefacts that reflect the culture and heritage of the ancient city. Its exhibits provide a comprehensive understanding of the archaeological significance of the area.
• Polonnaruwa Vatadage: An architectural marvel, this circular relic house is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and impressive design. It serves as a testament to the craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan builders and holds significant religious importance.
• Hatadage: This historic shrine, known for its exquisite architecture, is believed to house relics of the Buddha. Visitors can appreciate its serene atmosphere and the beauty of its ancient stonework, making it a must-visit for culture 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