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5 Sept - 6 Sept
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6 Sept - 7 Sept
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11 Sept - 13 Sept
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18 Sept - 20 Sept

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Our top choices for Minneriya hotels

1. Heritance Kandalama

Heritance Kandalama
Kandalama
Hong Kong SAR China
Neil C
AU$352
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Heritance Kandalama

2. Cinnamon Lodge

Cinnamon Lodge
Habarana
Canada
Viranjith
Cinnamon Lodge

3. Habarana Village by Cinnamon

Habarana Village by Cinnamon
Habarana
United States
Melissa
Habarana Village by Cinnamon

4. Hotel Sigiriya

Hotel Sigiriya
Sigiriya
Germany
Laura
AU$173
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Hotel Sigiriya

5. Deer Park Hotel

Deer Park Hotel
Giritale
United Kingdom
Christopher
AU$168
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Deer Park Hotel

6. Sigiriya Village

Sigiriya Village
Sigiriya
United Kingdom
Nicholas
AU$139
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Sigiriya Village

7. EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa

EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa
Denmark
Merethe
EKHO Lake House Polonnaruwa

8. Aliya Resort & Spa

Aliya Resort & Spa
Avudangawa
United States
ANNA
AU$246
includes taxes & fees
4 Oct - 5 Oct
Aliya Resort & Spa

9. Amaya Lake Dambulla

Amaya Lake Dambulla
Kandalama
United States
Natasha
AU$132
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Amaya Lake Dambulla

10. Jetwing Lake

Jetwing Lake
Dambulla
United Kingdom
Rod
Jetwing Lake

11. Lavendish Lake Giritale - Former Giritale Hotel

Lavendish Lake Giritale - Former Giritale Hotel
Giritale
United States
Peipei
AU$127
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Lavendish Lake Giritale - Former Giritale Hotel

12. Sigiri Vananthara

Sigiri Vananthara
Habarana
Switzerland
Robert
AU$139
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Sigiri Vananthara

13. Sigiriya Jungles

Sigiriya Jungles
Avudangawa
United Kingdom
Matt
AU$125
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Sigiriya Jungles

14. Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana

Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana
Habarana
United Kingdom
Nick
AU$261
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana

15. EKHO Sigiriya

EKHO Sigiriya
Sigiriya
United States
Mira
EKHO Sigiriya

16. Hotel Sudu Araliya

Hotel Sudu Araliya
Polonnaruwa
United Kingdom
Dilan
AU$90
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Hotel Sudu Araliya

17. Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve

Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve
Sigiriya
United States
Gregory
Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve

18. Kassapa Lion Rock

Kassapa Lion Rock
Sigiriya
Australia
Nikhil
AU$100
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Kassapa Lion Rock

19. Gabaa Resort & Spa

Gabaa Resort & Spa
Habarana
United States
Chameen
AU$94
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Gabaa Resort & Spa

20. Uga Ulagalla - Anuradhapura

Uga Ulagalla - Anuradhapura
Tirappane
United States
Adam
Uga Ulagalla - Anuradhapura
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Top Minneriya Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Minneriya

Amaya Lake Dambulla

Amaya Lake Dambulla

10/10 Excellent
"Everything is perfect thanks"
Natasha 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Amaya Lake Dambulla
Sigiriya Jungles

Sigiriya Jungles

10/10 Excellent
"The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The buffet was incredible. Our room was amazing and it really felt like we were in a jungle with a tree in the bathroom. Everyone genuinely wanted us to feel welcomed."
Dipinder 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Sigiriya Jungles
Flower Garden Eco Village

Flower Garden Eco Village

8/10 Good
"Room Electricals need some maintenance our bedside lamps were not working. Wardrobe inside finishing was incomplete - but otherwise an excellent location and hotel. Food and pool were great"
Sohrab 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Flower Garden Eco Village
Kassapa Lion Rock

Kassapa Lion Rock

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful setting for this lovely hotel. Staff were so friendly and helpful. We all enjoyed the Spa treatments. Food was very good. We loved the buffet option at night. If you need a fridge or hairdryer in your room you only need to ask."
Janice 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Kassapa Lion Rock
Hotel Sigiriya

Hotel Sigiriya

8/10 Good
"We had a great stay at Hotel Sigiriya! The views of Sigiriya Rock were beautiful, and we really enjoyed the breakfast. Our room was on the smaller side, but it was comfortable enough for our stay. The pool looked lovely as well, although unfortunately we didn’t get a chance to use it. There were two disappointments during our stay. First, before arriving, I contacted the hotel management to request a simple birthday surprise—a decorated room with a “Happy Birthday” message and a small cake. The hotel acknowledged the request, and I even noticed it written in the corner of our check-in paperwork. Unfortunately, the request was overlooked and the surprise never happened. It was a missed opportunity to make an already wonderful stay truly special. Hopefully, they can follow through next time! The second disappointment was on our second day. The cleaning staff made an elephant out of towels and placed it on our bed. When we dismantled it to use the towels, we realized that they appeared to be our previously used towels. We found this quite concerning and unsanitary, especially since used towels had been arranged and placed directly on the bed. Despite these issues, we had a lovely overall stay, enjoyed the beautiful surroundings, and appreciated the friendly service. With a little more attention to these details, the hotel could make the experience truly exceptional. We would consider staying again and hope for an even better experience next time."
Ryan Angelo 2-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Hotel Sigiriya
Cinnamon Lodge

Cinnamon Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing stay, amazing staff, amazing property, amazing meals and buffet, amazing pool. The ideal place if you want to check out and relax for a while. Truly a therapeutic experience. We will be back."
Viranjith 3-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Cinnamon Lodge
Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort

Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Staff were excellent and made every effort to make our stay comfortable. Food was fresh and delicious. We recommend keeping the spa open till later in the day although we note the concern about wild elephants and safety. Overall a great place and we would love to come back"
Jith 1-night trip
Posted 11 days ago
Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort
Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve

Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve

10/10 Excellent
"Overall, we really enjoyed our experience at jet wing! We came for our honeymoon and our butler did a fantastic job of making it special for us. From the service we got at check-in to check out the staff was great! We really enjoyed the excursions offered by the hotel like birdwatching in the morning. The food was all delicious and we especially liked the morning breakfast. We recommend jetwing to others on their honeymoon, but also saw a lot of families and seemed like a great place for groups as well."
Gregory 3-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Jetwing Vil Uyana, A Luxury Reserve
Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana

Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana

10/10 Excellent
"I travel a lot, and this hidden gem is just perfect."
Nick 5-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Taru Villas - Maia - Habarana

More cheap accommodation in Minneriya

Risenlak Holiday Resort

Risenlak Holiday Resort

136/2, New Town Road, 2nd Canal Polonnaruwa North Central Province
AU$21
5 Oct - 6 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (22 reviews)
Risenlak Holiday Resort
Hungry Lion Sigiriya

Hungry Lion Sigiriya

Main Road Sigiriya Central Province
AU$28
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (44 reviews)
Hungry Lion Sigiriya
Yoho Siyara Homestay

Yoho Siyara Homestay

Godagewatta Dambulla
AU$40
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Yoho Siyara Homestay
Melrose Villas

Melrose Villas

186, Bandaranayake Mawatha Sigiriya
AU$51
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (36 reviews)
Melrose Villas
Green Hut Nature Resort

Green Hut Nature Resort

New Town Rd Sigiriya Central Province
AU$54
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (8 reviews)
Green Hut Nature Resort
The Otunna Guest House

The Otunna Guest House

No 104/A Kalapuraya Sigiriya CP
AU$79
6 Oct - 7 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (17 reviews)
The Otunna Guest House

Find out more about Minneriya

Top reasons to visit Minneriya

  • Stunning Wildlife: Experience the diverse wildlife at Minneriya National Park, renowned for its elephant gatherings and rich biodiversity.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visit historic temples and traditional houses, immersing yourself in the local culture and customs.
  • Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling outdoor activities including wildlife tours, day trips, and both afternoon and night safaris.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of guesthouses and hotels catering to all types of travellers.
  • Scenic Beauty: Revel in the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes that surround this enchanting village.

Find great hotels near Minneriya

Discover a range of charming accommodations in Minneriya, from cosy guesthouses to comfortable hotels, ideal for all types of travellers. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, pet-friendly options, or facilities catering to business needs, Minneriya has something for everyone. Explore the proximity of hotels to the breathtaking Minneriya National Park and enjoy a memorable stay in this picturesque region of Sri Lanka.

  • Habarana Village by Cinnamon: Nestled 18km away from Minneriya, Habarana Village by Cinnamon boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.0. This eco-certified resort is ideal for those seeking an environmentally-friendly holiday experience. The charming village theme immerses guests in nature, with lush landscapes and rustic architecture. Amenities include spacious rooms, an inviting swimming pool, and wellness facilities, ensuring a serene retreat while embracing sustainable practices.
  • Deer Park Hotel: Located a mere 6km from Minneriya, Deer Park Hotel enjoys a guest rating of 8.6 and caters to families and business travellers alike. This hotel offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with amenities designed specifically for children, such as a children’s pool, playground, and onsite babysitting services, making it a practical choice for families. The hotel’s commitment to comfort and convenience ensures a pleasant stay for all guests.
  • Siyanco Holiday Resort: Situated 14km away from Minneriya, Siyanco Holiday Resort provides a range of dining options, including a 24-hour restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. While the resort type lodging focuses on culinary delights, it also offers a relaxed atmosphere for guests to unwind. Ideal for those who appreciate good food and a tranquil setting, Siyanco Holiday Resort is an excellent choice for a leisurely getaway.

Where to stay near Minneriya

Minneriya offers an enchanting escape for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Nestled in the North Central Province, this charming village is surrounded by lush greenery and rich culture. Explore the nearby Habarana village for an immersive experience in local traditions, or stay at hotels close to Minneriya National Park to witness stunning wildlife. The friendly atmosphere and historical significance of Minneriya make it a perfect destination for a memorable holiday.

  • Habarana: Situated approximately 18km from Minneriya, Habarana is a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in April and July to August. Habarana offers a variety of activities, including shopping at local malls and exploring recreational areas. Nearby, you'll find beautiful beaches and national parks, making it a perfect base for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy thrilling experiences.
  • Giritale: Located just 5km from Minneriya, Giritale is a charming city that offers a blend of outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. The best times to visit are from December to February when traveller numbers peak. Giritale is known for its recreational areas and proximity to national parks and art museums, allowing visitors to appreciate both nature and culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to relax amidst scenic beauty, Giritale is a delightful stop on your journey.
  • Hingurakgala: Also located 5km from Minneriya, Hingurakgala is a tranquil city renowned for its beautiful beaches. Like Giritale, it experiences peak visitor numbers from December to February, making it a popular spot for those looking to unwind by the sea. The serene beach atmosphere allows for relaxation and enjoyment of coastal activities. With its close proximity to Minneriya, Hingurakgala is an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway and seaside fun.

Things to do in Minneriya

Minneriya, located in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as wildlife tours, day trips, and both afternoon and night safaris. The area also features a recreational space and shopping centres, making it a well-rounded holiday spot for those seeking both adventure and leisure amidst stunning scenery.

Shopping

In Minneriya, you can explore local markets for handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Dambulla, around 24km away, where you'll find larger shopping centres like the Dambulla Central Market, offering a wider selection of goods and local delicacies.

Recreation

In Minneriya, the Ayurvedic Healing Village offers traditional wellness therapies amidst lush greenery, focusing on holistic healing and tranquillity. Nearby, the Eco Wellness Retreat invites guests to enjoy yoga sessions and nature walks, fostering relaxation and connection with the serene environment of Sri Lanka's natural beauty.

Adventure

In Minneriya, embark on a thrilling safari through Minneriya National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including majestic elephants. Explore the scenic landscapes on a cycling adventure or enjoy a boat ride on the nearby reservoir, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Minneriya is serene yet inviting, with local eateries and bars offering a taste of Sri Lankan cuisine and culture. Enjoy a drink at a nearby café while listening to live music or take a stroll under the stars, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Minneriya

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Minneriya 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 Minneriya is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Minneriya is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Minneriya is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your Minneriya hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Minneriya

Minneriya, located in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Minneriya National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and scenic vistas. Additionally, the area boasts historic temples and traditional houses, enriching the cultural landscape. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a glimpse into the region's history, Minneriya has something for everyone.

  • Minneriya National Park: Located approximately 6km from Minneriya, this national park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Adventure seekers can embark on thrilling safaris, particularly during the elephant gathering season, where hundreds of elephants can be spotted around the reservoir.
  • Kaudulla National Park: About 13km from Minneriya, Kaudulla offers a serene escape into nature. This park is famous for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, including jeep safaris that highlight the rich biodiversity, especially its elephant herds.
  • Giritale Wewa: Just 5km from Minneriya, Giritale Wewa is a tranquil lake perfect for relaxation. Enjoy the scenic views and romantic atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics by the water's edge.

Best time to go to Minneriya

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

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
February75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
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 SunnyModerately LowAverage
June81.5°F (27.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
July81.1°F (27.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August81.0°F (27.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September80.8°F (27.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October79.0°F (26.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
November76.5°F (24.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December75.0°F (23.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Minneriya

Accessing Minneriya is convenient via Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), situated approximately 148km away. Several quality hotels are available near the airport for a comfortable stay. Sentido Heritance Negombo, located 8km from CMB, offers an airport shuttle service. Jetwing Beach, just 10km away, also provides easy access to the airport. Additionally, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, is situated 6km from CMB and features nearby transportation options. These hotels ensure a seamless transition from your flight to your holiday in Minneriya.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Minneriya?
The best area to stay in Minneriya is primarily around the main entrance to Minneriya National Park, or in the nearby town of Habarana for broader accommodation options.For those prioritising proximity to wildlife, staying near the park's entrance is ideal. This area is quite rural, with guesthouses and eco-lodges often set amongst natural surroundings. It's superb for early morning game drives as you'll be among the first to enter the park, maximising your chances of seeing elephants and other wildlife.Habarana, a short drive from Minneriya National Park, offers a wider range of hotels, from comfortable guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. This town is a central hub for exploring the "Cultural Triangle," making it a convenient base for travellers who want to visit not only Minneriya but also Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa.
When is the best time to go to Minneriya?
The best time to go to Minneriya is during the dry season, from May to October, when the famous "Gathering" of elephants occurs.During these months, the Minneriya Tank's waters recede, revealing fresh grass on the lakebed. This attracts hundreds of elephants from surrounding areas, creating one of the largest concentrations of wild Asian elephants in the world. Visitors can witness this natural spectacle, often seeing herds of over 200 elephants, particularly in August and September.This period is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families. The clear skies and minimal rainfall make for comfortable safari conditions, allowing for excellent visibility and photography opportunities.
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 cancelled 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 Minneriya.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Minneriya with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Minneriya 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 Minneriya?
Prices for hotels in Minneriya often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$21 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.

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