Hotels in Kandalama

Some of the best places to stay in Kandalama are Sigiriya, Habarana and Polonnaruwa. Kandalama is a fantastic base for exploring Sri Lanka's cultural treasures. Sigiriya, known for its iconic rock fortress, is ideal for first-time visitors, offering breathtaking views and rich history. Habarana serves as a gateway to wildlife safaris, while Polonnaruwa features stunning ancient ruins. Accommodations range from luxury resorts with serene landscapes to comfortable guesthouses, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you seek opulence or local charm, there's something for every traveler in these remarkable destinations. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Kandalama:

1. SigiriyaOpens in a new window: Sigiriya is an enchanting destination known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Home to the iconic Ancient City of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and breathtaking views from Pidurangala Rock, it's perfect for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. The area features several excellent accommodations, including Occidental Paradise DambullaOpens in a new window, a 5-star resort offering adventure sports and family-friendly amenities like a children's playground and pool. Another choice is Heritance KandalamaOpens in a new window, which provides luxurious business facilities and childcare services. For a relaxing experience, Water Garden SigiriyaOpens in a new window boasts a full-service spa and pool, making it ideal for travelers looking to unwind after exploring the fascinating surroundings.
2. HabaranaOpens in a new window: Habarana is a vibrant area that serves as a gateway to Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, making it a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions. With highlights like the Ancient City of Sigiriya and Pidurangala Rock, Habarana is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers. Among the top hotels is Cinnamon LodgeOpens in a new window, a luxury lodge equipped with child-friendly amenities and business facilities, making it suitable for families and corporate travelers. Taru Villas - Maia - HabaranaOpens in a new window is another excellent option, focusing on adventure and wellness, with activities like hiking and rock climbing readily available. Additionally, Sungreen ResortOpens in a new window caters to business travelers, offering multiple meeting rooms and business services.
3. PolonnaruwaOpens in a new window: Polonnaruwa is steeped in history and offers an array of archaeological treasures, including the remarkable Polonnaruwa Vatadage and the informative Archaeological Museum. Its scenic lakes and lush landscapes provide a romantic backdrop for exploration. For accommodations, Ruins Chaaya HotelOpens in a new window is a comfortable 4-star hotel that provides meeting facilities for business travelers. The Heritage PolonnaruwaOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along while enjoying shared amenities like a playground. Lastly, Honey Tree PolonnaruwaOpens in a new window offers a casual dining experience and recreational activities, making it a great choice for those seeking a blend of culture and leisure.

Kandalama offers a three-day escape into a serene landscape of lush jungles, tranquil lakes, and rolling hills, perfect for nature lovers. Engage in activities like lake safaris, hiking, and spa indulgences, while soaking in the stunning beauty of the area, making it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kandalama:

• Day 1: Start your journey in Kandalama by visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning rock temples and impressive Buddha statues. After soaking in the cultural heritage, head to the Sigiriya Museum to learn more about the ancient city of Sigiriya and its fascinating history. Finally, make your way to the Ancient City of Sigiriya, where you can climb the iconic rock fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Day 2: Begin your adventure with a hike up Pidurangala Rock, which offers a less crowded alternative to Sigiriya and stunning panoramic views. After descending, relax by the tranquil Giritale Wewa, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Conclude your day with an exciting safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for its elephant gatherings and rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Day 3: Your exploration continues with a visit to the Ritigala Ruins, an ancient Buddhist monastery set against a backdrop of lush greenery, offering a serene atmosphere. Next, head to Nachchadoowa, a picturesque area perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the water. End your day at the Sri Swarnabimbaramaya Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and reflect on the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site.

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Kandalama on a budget is during June, July, and October, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least one month in advance for better rates. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to enjoy the great value for money while exploring the area's key attractions, such as the beautiful lake and lush jungle.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Kandalama, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section where you could find attractive discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a great rate, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you can stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you secure the best prices for your stay in Kandalama.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you are flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kandalama.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Kandalama and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Kandalama experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 73.9°F (23.3°C), while May and June are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 81.5°F (27.5°C). November is usually the wettest month. March, August, and December are the peak travel months in Kandalama, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.