Polgahawelana Hotels from S$27

"Spent 2 amazing nights here for safari tours situated right outside the national park. The hotel staff and location is amazing. The cabanas are beautiful and air conditioned. We even had elephants in the lagoon outside our room one night. As additional the safaris are excellent, the park is dripping with wildlife, we booked directly from yalla national park but the hotel does similar tours do a full day as 1/2 is not enough."

"The cocoon-shaped tents are really unique and beautiful. They’re well-designed and blend nicely with the natural surroundings. Inside, you have everything you need – a big bed, air-conditioning, a beautiful bathtub, and stylish furniture. Some parts of the tents do feel a little old and could use a bit of renovation, but that didn’t affect how much I enjoyed my stay. It still felt special and very comfortable. The food was excellent every day. The chefs prepare a nice mix of Sri Lankan dishes and international food. Everything was fresh and full of flavor. Meals were something I looked forward to daily. The safaris were a real highlight. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and respectful of nature. We saw leopards, elephants, and so many other animals. The whole safari experience was exciting and well-organized. The staff were amazing – kind, helpful, and always ready to assist. You feel well taken care of, and the service is top-level from everyone at the lodge. The small pool outside our cocoon was cleaned early every morning at around 6 AM, but because it’s under a lot of trees, it quickly fills up with leaves again. That’s understandable, but I do think the water filtration could be improved – during my stay, it looked more like a big bathtub than a proper pool. That said, there is a much bigger pool near the restaurant that’s perfect for relaxing. You can enjoy cocktails and snacks while sitting in the water, and it’s a great spot to unwind during the hot hours."

"Wow, what an experience. When we pulled up into the camp, there was an elephant just there (a tusker no less). The standards were consistently high from there. We were well looked after by the manager Ravi, with impeccable service throughout. My wife's gluten free requirement being well looked after. The views are stunning, the food was great. At camp we sat and watched birds, and beyond seeing an elephant we saw a leopard just crossing the road outside! Before going to bed... Shine a torch into the canopy overhead, and there was a polecat (civet), desperately climbing away from us! Two days of safari in yala, were two of the best of our lives. Elephants, leopards, bears, birds, jackals, buffalo... Achi (driver) made sure we didn't miss a thing. 10/10, if you love nature, don't hesitate to stay here. One thing to note is the price doesn’t include safari. Top tip - take ear plugs, you really are completely surrounded by nature all the time."

"This is an amazing property and wonderfully situated in its surroundings! Would highly recommend."

"Awesome experience! Family friendly! Great staff."

"Really nice place surrounded by nature and adjacent to a serene lake. Lots of birds to watch while sipping your tea on your private patio and even the odd visit from neighbhood monkeys. Rooms are clean, with ceiling fan and AC, with very few bugs/mosquitoes inside. The staff are incredibly helpful and kind. They also offer safari from 4 hours to full day at seemingly standard prices. We did a six hour private safari for 31K PP where we saw elephants, mongooses, loads of birds, and even (just about) a leapord. Food is good, simple, traditional vegetarian Sri Lankan cuisine. No fresh coffee and no alcohol served but seemed ok with others bringing their own. The biryani comes with the local buffalo curd which is delicious."

"Incredible place to spend a few nights while we enjoyed the peace and serenity as well as two safaris. The food was the best we had during our stay in Sri Lanka and the staff was incredible as well. "

"There was an infinity swimming pool overlooking, the wilderness, it was stunning and unforgettable. The hotel was to a high standard overall. Would return. "

"A beautiful setting directly on Tissa lake. The lobby opens out straight onto the garden and pool. Our room had opening sliding doors allowing an unhindered views of the lake. Hundreds of birds coming and going and there is an amazing twilight sight as the fruit bats leave the island for the night. Nice local area and an easy walk along the lakeside into town for the night. Food and service was great."