"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."
"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."
"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....
"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....
"Amazing location, peaceful views, cool design. Rooms are tired, time to renew them. The staff is super friendly, but some rules make the service are a bit inconvenient (like three restaurants, all of them opening at 7pm! Open one at 5pm, for families, since there are three of them!)"
"Amazing location, peaceful views, cool design. Rooms are tired, time to renew them. The staff is super friendly, but some rules make the service are a bit inconvenient (like three restaurants, all of them opening at 7pm! Open one at 5pm, for families, since there are three of them!)"
"We stayed 2 nights here and the food was spectacular; the staff in general and chef were amazingly attentive and fantastic food. Gorgeous view and very well located."
"We stayed 2 nights here and the food was spectacular; the staff in general and chef were amazingly attentive and fantastic food. Gorgeous view and very well located."
"Great place to stay. Large spacious room and comfy large bed. Sana and his family are very welcoming and helpful. Great breakfast plus we were treated to a Sri Lankan breakfast too. Sana took us on a morning excursion where we were treated to all the local wildlife, which was such an unexpected surprise. Would highly recommend stating here. Thankyou all."
"Great place to stay. Large spacious room and comfy large bed. Sana and his family are very welcoming and helpful. Great breakfast plus we were treated to a Sri Lankan breakfast too. Sana took us on a morning excursion where we were treated to all the local wildlife, which was such an unexpected surprise. Would highly recommend stating here. Thankyou all."
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.
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.
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Giritale Wewa during your travels in Giritale. Wander the forests and lakeside while you're in the area.
Nestled beside the tranquil waters of Giritale Wewa reservoir, this serene retreat serves as the perfect base for wildlife safaris in nearby Minneriya National Park. Explore ancient history with day trips to the magnificent rock fortress of Sigiriya, where local guides reveal centuries-old frescoes and panoramic views worth every step.
as amazing as siguriya itself is, and it is, the staff at king's resort were the highlight. nothing was too much trouble, true professional hospitality, it was great. we were there for our 20th wedding anniversary and they made it special. sri lanka is amazing. truely. did i mention the plunge pool? you'll prob want to get that. the big pool is brilliant but the plunge pool, for us, was really special
as amazing as siguriya itself is, and it is, the staff at king's resort were the highlight. nothing was too much trouble, true professional hospitality, it was great. we were there for our 20th wedding anniversary and they made it special. sri lanka is amazing. truely. did i mention the plunge pool? you'll prob want to get that. the big pool is brilliant but the plunge pool, for us, was really special
Nicholas
Reviewed October 16, 2026Reviewed October 16, 2026
If I could give 10 stars I would!! Such a lovely, tranquil place. The staff are some of the loveliest people we met in Sri Lanka. Dennis was incredibly helpful, the room was spotless and the breakfast the best we had on our trip. I would highly recommend this hotel
If I could give 10 stars I would!! Such a lovely, tranquil place. The staff are some of the loveliest people we met in Sri Lanka. Dennis was incredibly helpful, the room was spotless and the breakfast the best we had on our trip. I would highly recommend this hotel
Absolutely perfect. I could not have found a better host anywhere. The room is clean and lovely. The garden is beautiful. The breakfast are just delicious. Mother is a really good cook and I had the best vegetable roll and potato and egg samosa i have tried anywhere. The host made us so welcome and helped us with everything. He did all the hard work for us! The driver is lovely too. I feel privileged to stay here and regret I cannot stay longer
Absolutely perfect. I could not have found a better host anywhere. The room is clean and lovely. The garden is beautiful. The breakfast are just delicious. Mother is a really good cook and I had the best vegetable roll and potato and egg samosa i have tried anywhere. The host made us so welcome and helped us with everything. He did all the hard work for us! The driver is lovely too. I feel privileged to stay here and regret I cannot stay longer
Fabulous from the moment we arrived. Outside with a torch welcoming us in the dark. Extreme quick check in - shown straight to our spacious, clean room carrying our luggage for us. Once we were settled he came for a chat, telling us about the area & how elephants sometimes come right outside the door. Lovely spacious bathroom with good pressure continuous hot showers for all 3people. It had firm beds, bht we're aussies so use to luxuriously soft ones. They're about the same as Indian hotels....
Fabulous from the moment we arrived. Outside with a torch welcoming us in the dark. Extreme quick check in - shown straight to our spacious, clean room carrying our luggage for us. Once we were settled he came for a chat, telling us about the area & how elephants sometimes come right outside the door. Lovely spacious bathroom with good pressure continuous hot showers for all 3people. It had firm beds, bht we're aussies so use to luxuriously soft ones. They're about the same as Indian hotels....
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed January 19, 2020Reviewed January 19, 2020
Wonderful hotel with the most kind and helpful staff. Beautiful location, clean and tidy rooms and space and the pool was lush.
We had a great stay here with my son, husband and sister in law.
Definitely recommend and hope to come back one day.
The hotel were also extremely accomodating with a mix up that I made with the booking. They went above and beyond to help.
Wonderful hotel with the most kind and helpful staff. Beautiful location, clean and tidy rooms and space and the pool was lush.
We had a great stay here with my son, husband and sister in law.
Definitely recommend and hope to come back one day.
The hotel were also extremely accomodating with a mix up that I made with the booking. They went above and beyond to help.
We felt instantly relaxed and welcomed upon arrival. The grounds and pool are beautiful. Room was spacious and immaculate, we loved the variety of loose leaf teas in our room and delicious homemade biscuits that were replenished. The staff were the most attentive in our whole time in Sri Lanka. Things like coming with umbrellas on arrival to our car so we didn’t get wet, guiding us with a light to and from the dining area to our room each night, speaking to us about our travels and offering to...
We felt instantly relaxed and welcomed upon arrival. The grounds and pool are beautiful. Room was spacious and immaculate, we loved the variety of loose leaf teas in our room and delicious homemade biscuits that were replenished. The staff were the most attentive in our whole time in Sri Lanka. Things like coming with umbrellas on arrival to our car so we didn’t get wet, guiding us with a light to and from the dining area to our room each night, speaking to us about our travels and offering to...
Alana
Reviewed November 1, 2025Reviewed November 1, 2025
Hotel: Sigiri Hibiscus Villas
Room no: 2
Staff: 10/10
Location: 10/10
Cleanliness: 10/10
Soundproofing: 9/10
Blockout curtains: No, but fairly dark.
Comments: Would stay here again if we returned to Sigiriya.
Hotel: Sigiri Hibiscus Villas
Room no: 2
Staff: 10/10
Location: 10/10
Cleanliness: 10/10
Soundproofing: 9/10
Blockout curtains: No, but fairly dark.
Comments: Would stay here again if we returned to Sigiriya.
We stayed in the forest dwelling with a pool. It was spacious and beautiful. Service is amazing. Wildlife in adundance, crocodiles, monkeys, birds, loris and cute dogs.
So much to do in this area! We stayed four nights.. one more would have been perfect!
We stayed in the forest dwelling with a pool. It was spacious and beautiful. Service is amazing. Wildlife in adundance, crocodiles, monkeys, birds, loris and cute dogs.
So much to do in this area! We stayed four nights.. one more would have been perfect!
Stunning Scenery: Giritale is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the picturesque Giritale Lake and Tank, perfect for relaxation and sightseeing.
Outdoor Adventures: The region offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from leisurely walks to more adventurous pursuits amid nature.
Cultural Richness: Explore local temples and national parks to gain insight into the rich heritage and traditions of the area.
Welcoming Atmosphere: The friendly locals enhance the warm, inviting vibe, making visitors feel at home.
Charming Accommodations: A range of hotels and guesthouses cater to all types of travellers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Giritale
Discover the charming accommodations in Giritale, where a mix of hotels and guesthouses cater to every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, a pet-friendly stay, or a comfortable base for business travel, you'll find a variety of options. Enjoy scenic views near Giritale Tank, and explore highly-rated hotels like Hotel Viverra, making your visit a memorable experience filled with warmth and hospitality.
Hotel Sigiriya: Hotel Sigiriya is a serene 4-star resort located approximately 19.3km from Giritale, offering a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for business travellers and spa enthusiasts alike. The property features a full-service spa, complete with treatment rooms for massages, and a poolside bar for unwinding after a long day. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa treatments and enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation amidst nature.
Sigiriya Village: Embracing the charm of Sri Lankan culture, Sigiriya Village is a 4-star hotel located around 19.3km from Giritale and boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This hotel offers a delightful dining experience with options like a restaurant, bar and lounge, and buffet breakfast. It is an excellent choice for the active traveller, featuring opportunities for nearby hiking and biking. Guests can also enjoy entertainment amenities such as billiards and televisions, while the stunning views of the national park and historical district add to the allure of this culturally rich accommodation.
Deer Park Hotel: Situated right in Giritale, the 5-star Deer Park Hotel combines luxury with family-friendly amenities, earning a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This hotel is crafted for families seeking both relaxation and adventure, offering services like babysitting and a children’s playground. The outdoor pool and full spa service, including massage treatments and body scrubs, provide a haven for relaxation. With a focus on family experiences and a welcoming atmosphere, Deer Park Hotel ensures an enjoyable stay for all ages.
Where to stay near Giritale
Giritale, nestled in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its tranquil Giritale Lake and the serene waters of the Giritale Tank, visitors can immerse themselves in stunning scenery and rich culture. The friendly locals add to the warm atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Discover the historical charm of the region while enjoying the beautiful surroundings that Giritale has to offer.
Minneriya: Nestled a mere 4.8km from Giritale, Minneriya is a charming village renowned for its stunning natural environment and outdoor adventures. The area sees a moderate flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak times occurring from December to February. Travellers flock here for its beautiful scenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The local attractions include the nearby Minneriya National Park, famous for its elephant gatherings, as well as recreational areas and shopping centres, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.
Hingurakgala: Located 6.4km from Giritale, Hingurakgala is a vibrant city that attracts visitors primarily for its beautiful beaches. With a similar seasonal visitation pattern, the city experiences its peak from December to February. The stunning coastline provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and beach activities, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind by the sea. The inviting atmosphere and local beach access offer a delightful escape for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Jayanthipura: Situated 8.0km from Giritale, Jayanthipura is a quaint village perfect for those seeking outdoor and eco-friendly experiences. With a steady influx of visitors year-round, peaks are seen in the December to February period. The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring monuments and a nearby nature reserve that beckon adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Jayanthipura provides a peaceful setting to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka’s flora and fauna, making it an engaging destination for eco-conscious travellers.
Things to do in Giritale
Shopping
In Giritale, you can explore local markets offering traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Sajja Shopping Mall for a wider selection of clothing and gifts, and the larger Anuradhapura city centre with more shops and unique finds.
Recreation
In Giritale, the Ayurvedic Resort offers serene treatments rooted in ancient practices, surrounded by lush greenery. The Giritale Hotel features rejuvenating spa services and yoga sessions by the tranquil lakeside, ideal for relaxation and reflection amidst nature's beauty.
Adventure
In Giritale, explore the lush landscapes on a thrilling safari at Minneriya National Park, where you can see majestic elephants. Try your hand at kayaking on the serene Giritale Lake, surrounded by stunning views and local wildlife, providing a refreshing adventure in nature.
Nightlife
In Giritale, the evenings come alive at the tranquil Lake Giritale, where you can enjoy a serene lakeside walk. For a more lively atmosphere, check out local eateries offering traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and cultural performances, creating a delightful blend of flavours and sounds under the stars.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Giritale
To save money on your trip to Giritale, consider visiting during the cheaper months of June and September to October, when hotel prices drop. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can secure better rates, while Saturday is the most affordable night to stay. Explore last-minute deals on Expedia for spontaneous stays. Additionally, use the site’s price filter to find the best hotel rates, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for further savings. Embrace free activities in the area to stretch your budget even more.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Giritale 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 Giritale 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 Giritale is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Giritale is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Giritale hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Giritale
Giritale offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it a perfect holiday spot. Visitors can explore the stunning Giritale Lake and the historic Giritale Tank, both ideal for leisurely activities and appreciating nature. The area is rich in culture, featuring local temples and national parks that provide a glimpse into the region's heritage. For those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility, Giritale truly has something for everyone.
Minneriya National Park: Located 8.0km from Giritale, this national park offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. Renowned for its large gatherings of elephants, visitors can embark on safari drives that showcase the diverse wildlife and lush landscapes, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts.
Gal Viharaya: Situated 9.7km away, this temple is a remarkable site featuring intricately carved rock sculptures of Buddha. The serene atmosphere and rich history provide a unique cultural insight, making it a captivating destination for those interested in Sri Lanka's spiritual heritage.
Tivanka Image House: Also 9.7km from Giritale, this historic site showcases ancient frescoes and intricate architecture. The cultural significance of the Tivanka Image House offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's past, enhancing your appreciation of Sri Lankan art and religious traditions.
Best time to go to Giritale
The best time to visit Giritale 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 moderately low and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately 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
Moderately High
Slightly High
February
75.2°F (24.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately High
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
Moderately Low
Average
June
81.5°F (27.5°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
July
81.1°F (27.3°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
August
81.0°F (27.2°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
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
Moderately 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
Moderately High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Giritale
Flying into Giritale, Sri Lanka, is most convenient via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 146.4km away. Ideal accommodation options near the airport include the luxurious Sentido Heritance Negombo, situated 8.0km away, which offers an airport shuttle service. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is 9.7km from the airport and also provides easy access. For those seeking a relaxing retreat, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, lies just 6.4km away, ensuring a seamless journey to and from the airport. With these excellent hotel choices, your trip to Giritale will be both comfortable and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Giritale?
The best area to stay in Giritale is along the banks of the Giritale Tank, offering stunning views and easy access to the region's main attractions.
This central area provides a tranquil setting with most accommodations situated to maximise the panoramic lake vistas. You'll find yourself surrounded by nature, yet just a short drive from significant historical sites. The main road that runs alongside the tank connects you efficiently to the cultural triangle.
For couples, this area is great for a romantic escape. The peaceful environment, often featuring private balconies looking out over the water, provides a serene backdrop for relaxation. Many hotels here offer excellent dining experiences with a view, and you're well-placed for excursions to the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, which are ideal for exploring together.
Families will also find this area highly suitable. The open spaces around the lake are great for children to enjoy, and many hotels have swimming pools and gardens. The proximity to nature means opportunities for bird watching or even a gentle boat ride on the tank.
The Deer Park Hotel, with a superb 8.4 rating, is an excellent choice for families. It offers complimentary supervised childcare, free on-site babysitting, and free rollaway extra beds and cots. Guests will appreciate the connecting rooms, children's pool, and a sofa bed in each room. There is also a shared children's playground.
Another good option for families is the Giritale Hotel, which has a 7.0 rating. This hotel provides a refreshing pool, connecting rooms for added convenience, and free self-parking. Guests also benefit from complimentary WiFi and free toiletries.
What are the best rated hotels in Giritale?
In Giritale, the Deer Park Hotel stands out as a highly-rated option.
This hotel, with an 8.4 rating, offers a luxurious experience with amenities such as air conditioning, rainfall showerheads, and premium bedding including Egyptian cotton sheets. Guests can enjoy wonderful lake views, relax at the poolside bar, or even visit the on-site winery. For families, complimentary on-site babysitting and childcare services are available.
The Rivonway Hotel Polonnaruwa, with an 8.0 rating, offers an all-inclusive stay which includes a complimentary continental breakfast. This hotel provides a convenient option for those seeking an extensive package in Giritale.
The Deer Park Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, offers a full-service spa where guests can enjoy a wide range of treatments. These include couples treatment rooms, body scrubs, body treatments, and facials. The hotel also provides Ayurvedic treatments and a steam room for relaxation.
Another good option is the Giritale Hotel, which has a 7.0 rating. This hotel features an onsite spa with an extensive menu of services such as Ayurvedic treatments, facial treatments, and various massages including Swedish, deep tissue, aromatherapy, Thai, and hot stone. Guests can also enjoy body scrubs, detoxification wraps, body wraps, and hydrotherapy treatments.
The Rivonway Hotel Polonnaruwa, with an 8.0 rating, provides a free continental breakfast, ensuring a good start to your day. Guests also benefit from complimentary toiletries and free self-parking, adding to the convenience.
This hotel, with an 8.0 rating, offers complimentary self-parking, free continental breakfast, and free toiletries. Guests appreciate the convenient amenities provided, making it a comfortable and economical choice for your stay.
What are the most romantic hotels in Giritale for couples?
For couples seeking a romantic escape in Giritale, the Deer Park Hotel and the Giritale Hotel offer delightful options.
The Deer Park Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, provides a serene setting with many rooms offering beautiful lake views, great for a romantic stay. Guests can enjoy premium bedding, rainfall showerheads, and even Egyptian cotton sheets for added comfort. The hotel also features a poolside bar and a winery on-site, providing lovely spots for couples to relax together. For ultimate pampering, the hotel offers couples' treatment rooms.
Another excellent choice is the Giritale Hotel, rated 7.0. This hotel is known for its extensive spa services, including massages on the beach, Ayurvedic treatments, and a variety of body and facial treatments. Couples can indulge in a relaxing experience together, choosing from options like deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, or aromatherapy treatments. The hotel also boasts lake views, adding to its tranquil appeal.
When is the best time to go to Giritale?
The best time to visit Giritale is during the dry season, which runs from May to September, or in the shoulder months of April and October.
During these months, you'll experience consistently warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and natural beauty of the area. The sunny skies are superb for wildlife safaris in nearby national parks and for enjoying the Giritale Tank.
Couples looking for a relaxing and culturally rich getaway will find these months particularly appealing. The pleasant weather allows for comfortable visits to historical sites like Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, and evenings are superb for enjoying outdoor dining by the tank.
Families travelling with children will also appreciate the dry season.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 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 Giritale.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Giritale with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Giritale hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Giritale?
Prices for hotels in Giritale often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$32 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 our cheapest rates.