Ancient stone columns and intricate carvings in a historical site.

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Our top choices for Polonnaruwa hotels

1. 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 CA $65
CA $86 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Hotel Sudu Araliya

2. 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 CA $19
CA $25 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Seyara Holiday Resort

3. Hotel Mahanuge

Hotel Mahanuge
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
3.4 out of 10, (3 reviews)
"We arrived there with our booking confirmation from hotels,com and were told that they had no booking and were full. So we had to leave and search for another hotel. Very unpleasant experience! Also still waiting for an answer from hotels.com regarding the refund since three days. "
American Samoa
Birte
The price is CA $54
CA $72 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Hotel Mahanuge

4. Jayaru Guest House

Jayaru Guest House
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"The family were so kind and friendly! They helped us with everything. There were bikes to rent and they even drew a map where to buy the tickets to the ruins and where's the entrance. They also drove us to Sigiriya with very reasonable price."
Finland
Anonymous traveller
The price is CA $10
CA $12 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Jayaru Guest House

5. Risenlak Holiday Resort

Risenlak Holiday Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (22 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 CA $17
CA $20 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Risenlak Holiday Resort

6. Green Kingdom Resort

Green Kingdom Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is CA $23
CA $28 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
Green Kingdom Resort

7. Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge

Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (5 reviews)
"Binara Home Stay に到着した時、宿の主人から何年も前にHotels.comのアカウントを閉じたので、こちらの到着を予定していなかったと言われた。また宿泊代金も受け取ってないと言われました。Hotels.comに連絡をとってほしいと言われ、日本の友人にも協力を求めてHotels.comに電話をした。なぜずっと前から予約をしているのに、しかも宿泊客がこのようなことでHotels.comに連絡を取らないといけないのか? 宿の主人は良い人だったので宿泊を受けてくれました。部屋に冷蔵庫やクーラーはありません。2階建の2階の部屋だったので暑くて寝られませんでした。また暑くてドアを開けっぱなしにしたので、身体中蚊にかまれました。朝食2食と自転車利用代とミネラレル・ウォーター2本分の代金4,300Rsをチェックアウトの時に知らされ、支払いました。"
Japan
Mitsunobu
The price is CA $12
CA $16 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Binara Home Stay -Tourist Lodge

8. 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 CA $24
CA $32 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Nadun Rest

9. Rock Cascade Homestay

Rock Cascade Homestay
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
7.4 out of 10, Good, (8 reviews)
"Really very nice home stay near to the lake and the Museum. The landlady is very helpful and does everything to make the stay comfortable . The bycicle is brought to your room, this is the best way to see the sites, also the entrance is quite near. In the evening the landlady cooks a nice curry for you - or whatever you want - and she also has beer! All in all a very agreeable stay. The bathroom could have been a little cleaner though."
Saudi Arabia
Gabriele Maria
The price is CA $19
CA $25 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 7 - Nov 8
Rock Cascade Homestay

10. Hotel Dunhinda

Hotel Dunhinda
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is CA $38
CA $51 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 12 - Nov 13
Hotel Dunhinda

11. Kamatha Resort

Kamatha Resort
2.5 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is CA $29
CA $38 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Kamatha Resort

12. 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 ‘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!!!!"
Canada
David
The price is CA $22
CA $27 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
SSC VIlla

13. 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 CA $7
CA $10 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Kumari Resort

14. Wildescape Polonnaruwa

Wildescape Polonnaruwa
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is CA $592
CA $787 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 31 - Nov 1
Wildescape Polonnaruwa

15. Dilshan Guest House

Dilshan Guest House
3.0 star property
Polonnaruwa
The price is CA $62,964
CA $75,048 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Dilshan Guest House

16. Deer Park Hotel

Deer Park Hotel
5.0 star property
Giritale
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (57 reviews)
"Very helpful and kind staff with beautiful surroundings "
United Kingdom
Christopher
The price is CA $122
CA $159 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Deer Park Hotel

17. The Senaro Holiday Inn

The Senaro Holiday Inn
3.0 star property
Hingurakgoda
The price is CA $29
CA $34 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 12 - Nov 13
The Senaro Holiday Inn

18. Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari

Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari
4.0 star property
Sigiriya
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2 reviews)
"From the moment we arrived at Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari, we were made to feel completely at home. Kumari and her husband, Neshanta, went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. They were incredibly kind and caring towards our children, making them feel so welcome from day one. The homemade Sri Lankan breakfast was absolutely delicious, with fresh fruit picked from the beautiful trees surrounding the lodge, which Kumari uses in her cooking. The setting is peaceful and full of wildlife....
United Kingdom
Rebecca
The price is CA $29
CA $34 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Jungle Eco Lodge & Safari

19. Hotel Viverra

Hotel Viverra
3.5 star property
Giritale
The price is CA $39
CA $52 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 12 - Nov 13
Hotel Viverra

20. Panoramic royal villa

Panoramic royal villa
3.0 star property
Dambulla
The price is CA $28
CA $33 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Panoramic royal villa
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 and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Kaduruwela

While there might not be top attractions in Kaduruwela, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Gal Viharaya.

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

More cheap stays in Polonnaruwa

Find out more about Polonnaruwa

Top reasons to visit Polonnaruwa

  • Historical Significance: Discover the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing ancient architecture and ruins.
  • Natural Beauty: Explore the scenic landscapes of Kadulla National Park, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Relaxing Outings: Enjoy serene moments at Polonnaruwa Lake, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visit the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the region.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses catering to all traveller preferences.

Find great hotels near Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses, catering to diverse traveller needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly environment, a family-friendly getaway, or business-focused amenities, you'll discover a range of hotels in Polonnaruwa that provide comfort and convenience. Explore the unique charm of this historical city while enjoying a memorable stay in one of the many welcoming hotels available.

  • Hotel Sigiriya: Nestled 27.4km from Polonnaruwa, Hotel Sigiriya is a luxurious 4-star resort that embodies a tranquil spa theme ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. This property caters to both leisure and business travellers, offering a range of amenities including a full-service spa, massage treatments, and a poolside bar. Business guests can take advantage of well-equipped meeting and conference facilities, ensuring a seamless work experience. The serene surroundings make it a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind amidst nature.
  • Sigiriya Village: Located 27.4km from Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Village is a charming 4-star hotel that embraces the local culture and stunning natural landscapes. This property offers a unique dining experience with options like gala dinners and onsite restaurants. Guests can indulge in various recreational activities, including hiking and biking nearby. Entertainment amenities such as billiards and television ensure that guests have plenty to enjoy during their stay. The proximity to historical sites and national parks adds to the allure, making it a fantastic choice for culture and adventure seekers.
  • EKHO Sigiriya: A comfortable 3.5-star hotel situated 27.4km from Polonnaruwa, EKHO Sigiriya offers a friendly atmosphere with essential amenities for a pleasant stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and bar. The hotel also provides access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking, allowing guests to explore the beautiful surroundings. With its welcoming vibe and convenient facilities, EKHO Sigiriya is an excellent choice for those seeking a homey atmosphere while discovering the rich heritage of the region.

Things to do near Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, nestled in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, offers a blend of adventure and natural beauty perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the scenic Kadulla National Park, discover the historic sights of Polonnaruwa, and enjoy various entertainment facilities. Don't miss the chance to shop at local centres and search for comfortable resorts to unwind after a day of exploration.

Shopping

In Polonnaruwa, explore local markets like the Polonnaruwa Market for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Dambulla Central Market, about 24.1km away, where you can find a vibrant selection of local produce, textiles, and traditional crafts.

Recreation

Experience outdoor family fun at Mahaweli Playground, located 30.6km from Polonnaruwa, where you can engage in recreational activities amidst nature. For sports enthusiasts, Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, 41.8km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy various sporting events.

Adventure

In Polonnaruwa, explore the ancient ruins on a cycling tour, offering a thrilling way to discover historical sites. Experience the stunning landscapes while kayaking on the Parakrama Samudra lake, where you can enjoy birdwatching and tranquil surroundings, perfect for an adventurous day out.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Polonnaruwa at the charming local eateries and bars. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a riverside restaurant, followed by a refreshing drink at a cozy pub, where you can mingle with friendly locals and fellow travellers, soaking up the unique atmosphere of this historical city.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Polonnaruwa

To save money during your visit to Polonnaruwa, consider travelling during the off-peak months of June and September to October, when accommodation prices dip. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and sort hotels by price to snag the best deals. Additionally, combining your hotel booking with flights and activities can lead to 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Polonnaruwa is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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 feature lets you choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results from lowest to highest price to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservation in Polonnaruwa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Best time to go to Polonnaruwa

The best time to visit Polonnaruwa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Polonnaruwa falls in May and June. June has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Polonnaruwa falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
February75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June81.5°F (27.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July81.1°F (27.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August81.0°F (27.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September80.8°F (27.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October79.0°F (26.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.5°F (24.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December75.0°F (23.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Polonnaruwa?
The best area to stay in Polonnaruwa is near the Polonnaruwa Ancient City complex, particularly along the main road that runs parallel to the ruins.

This area offers excellent access to the historical sites, making it very convenient for exploring. You'll find a good selection of guesthouses and hotels scattered along this road, often with views of the surrounding greenery or close to Lake Parakrama. It's a relatively spread-out area, but many accommodations are within a short tuk-tuk ride or even a walk to the main entrance of the Ancient City.

Couples looking for a relaxing and culturally rich experience will find this area ideal. Staying close to the Ancient City allows for early morning or late afternoon visits, avoiding the busiest times and enjoying the sites in cooler temperatures. Many larger hotels in this vicinity offer amenities like swimming pools and dining options, great for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
What are the best hotels in Polonnaruwa that travellers recommend?
Two of the best hotels in Polonnaruwa that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa and Seyara Holiday Resort.

The 3.5-star EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa, with a 9.0 rating, offers stunning lake views and a refreshing outdoor pool. It is conveniently located just 0.6 km from the Polonnaruwa Vatadage.

Another highly recommended option is the 3-star Seyara Holiday Resort, which has an 8.4 rating. This resort features a lovely outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and balconies or patios for guests to enjoy. It is praised for its quiet location and is 1.9 km from both Buddha Seema Prasada and Lankatilaka Temple.
What are the best family hotels in Polonnaruwa?
For family-friendly accommodation in Polonnaruwa, consider the Thidas Arana and the Seyara Holiday Resort.

The 3.5-star Thidas Arana, with an 8.8 rating, offers a children's pool and a playground, along with complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi, making it a convenient choice for families.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Seyara Holiday Resort, rated 8.4. This resort also features a children's pool and offers free on-site babysitting services, complimentary toiletries, and free WiFi. It is conveniently located near Lankatilaka Temple and Buddha Seema Prasada, both just 1.9 km away. Guests have praised its quiet location.
What are the best spa hotels in Polonnaruwa?
For a relaxing stay with spa facilities in Polonnaruwa, consider Hotel Sudu Araliya or EKHO Lake Polonnaruwa.

The 3.5-star Hotel Sudu Araliya, with a rating of 7.2, offers a full-service spa that provides daily treatments, a steam room, and a sauna. Guests can enjoy various massage options at the onsite spa.

Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star EKHO Lake Polonnaruwa, also rated 7.2. This hotel provides an onsite spa for guests to unwind and offers free WiFi and free self-parking for added convenience.
What hotels in Polonnaruwa offer free breakfast?
Certainly, several highly-rated hotels in Polonnaruwa offer complimentary breakfast, including EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa, Thidas Arana, and Ruins Chaaya Hotel.

The 3.5-star EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa, with an excellent 9.0 rating, provides an inclusive resort breakfast as part of its offerings. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. This hotel is conveniently located just 0.6 kilometres from Shiva Devalaya.

Another fantastic option is the 3.5-star Thidas Arana, rated 8.8, which offers a free continental breakfast. The hotel also provides complimentary toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi.

For a 4-star experience, consider Ruins Chaaya Hotel, which has an 8.4 rating. This hotel provides a a free English breakfast and guests can also enjoy free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. It is located 1.9 kilometres from Shiva Devalaya.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Polonnaruwa?
For a top pet-friendly hotel in Polonnaruwa, consider the Seyara Holiday Resort.

The 3-star Seyara Holiday Resort, with an 8.4 rating, is an excellent choice for travellers with pets as pets stay free. Guests frequently mention its super quiet location. The resort also offers complimentary toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi. It is conveniently located near the Lankatilaka Temple and Buddha Seema Prasada, both just 1.9 kilometres away.
What are the best budget hotels in Polonnaruwa?
For budget accommodation in Polonnaruwa, consider the Seyara Holiday Resort.

This 3-star resort, with a review rating of 8.4, offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Guests appreciate the outdoor pool and that pets can stay free of charge. It is conveniently located near points of interest such as Lankatilaka Temple and Buddha Seema Prasada, both just 1.9 km away. Guests often mention its super quiet location, making for a relaxing stay.
What are the most romantic hotels in Polonnaruwa for couples?
For a romantic stay in Polonnaruwa, couples should consider EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa or Seyara Holiday Resort.

The 3.5-star EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa, with an excellent 9.0 rating, offers a wonderful experience for couples. Guests frequently praise the great overall experience at this hotel, which features complimentary WiFi and free parking. Its location is convenient for exploring historical sites, with Shiva Devalaya, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Polonnaruwa Vatadage, and Gal Pota all within 0.7 km.

Another lovely option is the 3-star Seyara Holiday Resort, rated 8.4. This resort is known for its super quiet and great location. It provides complimentary toiletries, free parking, and even allows pets to stay free. The outdoor pool is a refreshing feature, and guests can enjoy the fireplace for a cosy evening. It is located near historical sites such as Rankot Vihara and Kiri Vihara Temple, both within 1.9 km.
What are the best hotels in Polonnaruwa near Polonnaruwa Vatadage?
For hotels in Polonnaruwa near Polonnaruwa Vatadage, consider EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa or Seyara Holiday Resort.

The 3.5-star EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa, with a 9.0 rating, is conveniently located just 0.6 km from Polonnaruwa Vatadage. This hotel offers complimentary WiFi, free self-parking, and free toiletries. Guests also benefit from a free crib and a resort inclusive breakfast, making it a great choice for families.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Seyara Holiday Resort, rated 8.4. While it is 1.9 km from Polonnaruwa Vatadage, it is praised for its super quiet and great location. The resort provides a children's pool, free WiFi, and free self-parking. It also offers the convenience of on-site babysitting and childcare services, and pets are welcome to stay free.
When is the best time to go to Polonnaruwa?
The best time to go to Polonnaruwa is during the dry season, which runs from April to September and December to February.

This period typically offers clear, sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the ancient city's ruins and outdoor attractions. You'll find it easier to walk around the vast archaeological park and enjoy activities like cycling between the sites without the interruption of heavy rainfall.

For those planning their trip around the cultural calendar, April is a particularly good time as it often coincides with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations, offering a chance to experience local traditions. December to February also provides excellent weather for sightseeing, with cooler mornings and evenings.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Polonnaruwa.
How much is the nightly rate at a Polonnaruwa hotel?
Prices for hotels in Polonnaruwa often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $10 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.