Rice Villa Retreat

Top choice in The Ancient Cities


A memorable place to stay, this beautifully located guesthouse enjoys an idyllic position overlooking an expanse of rice paddies, replete with the sounds of peacocks and bullfrogs. The five bungalows are well appointed, with modern bathrooms, terrace seating and contemporary design touches. Best of all, the hospitality from the family owners is warm and genuine.

Take off Rs 1000 if you don't need air-conditioning. The excellent meals are served in the wooden restaurant on stilts and free cooking classes are offered for guests. Reserve in advance and arrange free pick-up from the Giritale bus stop, 4km to the west. The owners are expert at arranging local transport to Polonnaruwa and beyond.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Ancient Cities attractions

1. Exit

3.48 MILES

Most visitors exit the archaeological site here.

2. Nelum Pokuna

3.52 MILES

A track to the left from the northern stretch of road leads to unusual Nelum Pokuna (Lotus Pond), nearly 8m in diameter, which has five concentric,…

3. Tivanka Image House

3.57 MILES

Polonnaruwa's northern road ends at Tivanka Image House. Tivanka means ‘thrice bent’, and refers to the fact that the Buddha image within is in a three…

4. Vishnu Devale No 4

3.57 MILES

This minor Hindu site is outside the main archaeological area and can easily be skipped.

5. Shiva Devale No 5

3.59 MILES

This minor Hindu site is outside the main archaeological area and can easily be skipped.

6. Damila Thupa

3.76 MILES

King Parakramabahu I planned this 12th-century stupa to be the world's largest Buddhist monument, but even with the enforced assistance of Tamil prisoners…

7. Gal Vihara

3.82 MILES

Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…

8. Kiri Vihara

3.85 MILES

Construction of the dagoba Kiri Vihara is credited to Subhadra, King Parakramabahu I’s queen. Originally known as the Rupavati Chetiya, the present name…