Giritale Hotel - Flood Plains National Park
Perched on a hill overlooking the Giritale Tank, this hotel offers breathtaking views and a peaceful setting. It's conveniently located for visiting Polonnaruwa's ancient ruins and for embarking on wildlife safaris to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks.
- Location
- Flood Plains National Park, North Central & Eastern Plains, Sri Lanka, South Asia
- Type
- hotel
- Coordinates
- 7.980000, 81.020000
- Price range
- budget
- Website
- https://giritalehotel.lk/
- Capacity
- 80 guests
- Rooms
- 40
- Dietary options
- Vegetarian options available.
- Child-friendly
- Yes
- Pool/Spa
- Available
PlnrScore: 30/100
Frequently Asked Questions
We're planning a trip to see the 'Gathering' in Minneriya. Is Giritale Hotel a good base, and what's the best way to arrange a safari from there?
Absolutely. Giritale Hotel's location is ideal for reaching Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks, where the elephant gathering happens. We recommend booking your safari directly through the hotel's reception; they have reliable local guides and jeeps. The best time to witness the gathering is typically from July to October, so plan accordingly for those drier months.
We're traveling with young children. How child friendly is Giritale Hotel, and what activities can they enjoy?
Giritale Hotel is surprisingly family friendly for its budget price point. The large tank views are captivating for kids, and the hotel staff are generally very accommodating. While it's not a resort with dedicated kids' clubs, the open spaces and proximity to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa offer plenty of gentle exploration opportunities for little ones.
What's the overall vibe at Giritale Hotel? We're looking for somewhere comfortable but not overly fussy, with great views.
We found Giritale Hotel to be a wonderfully relaxed and unpretentious place. The views over the Giritale Tank are truly the star here, especially at sunset when the sky puts on a spectacular show. It feels like a solid, comfortable basecamp rather than a luxury escape, which is perfect for safari goers who want value and a peaceful retreat after a day in the parks.
Given Giritale Hotel is in the budget range, what should we expect in terms of amenities and food?
For a budget friendly option, Giritale Hotel delivers. Expect clean, functional rooms and a communal dining area that serves decent Sri Lankan fare. We particularly enjoyed the local curries – simple but flavorful. Don't expect gourmet dining or high-end finishes, but do expect good value and a friendly atmosphere.
Besides Minneriya and Kaudulla, are there other wildlife or cultural sites easily accessible from Giritale Hotel?
Yes, definitely. We love that Giritale Hotel is so well positioned for exploring. Beyond the famous elephant parks, you're very close to the magnificent ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see. Flood Plains National Park is also nearby, offering a different, though often less dramatic, wildlife viewing experience.