Cinnamon Lodge Habarana sits in the small town of Habarana, which is the natural hub of the Cultural Triangle. From here roads fan out to Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and the national parks of Minneriya and Kaudulla, all within roughly an hour. The lodge is a long-established resort of low-rise buildings spread through extensive gardens, with wide lawns, mature trees and a reedy lake on the edge of the property. The atmosphere is relaxed and rural. Paths wind among the trees, birds are active from dawn, and small mammals such as monkeys and squirrels are regular visitors. Rooms are arranged in blocks or villas around the grounds, usually with a veranda or balcony facing greenery. A large pool is the focal point for guests who return from a morning of sightseeing and want a cool afternoon, and the resort offers its own activities such as cycling and nature walks.
Location and getting around
Habarana is a convenient junction, so you can reach several sights without very long drives. Drivers, tuk-tuks and safari jeeps can be arranged through the hotel, and the town has a few shops and small restaurants a short walk away. Check transfer arrangements if you arrive from Colombo or Kandy, as the road journey is several hours.
The rooms
Standard rooms are comfortable and functional, with air conditioning and garden views, while higher categories add more space or a better position. The grounds are large, so ask for a room near the main facilities if you prefer short walks. Dining is usually a mix of buffet and a la carte, with Sri Lankan and international dishes.
Who it suits
Families, groups and first-time visitors who want a central base with easy logistics. It is a good choice for travellers who plan to see several sights in a few days and prefer not to change hotels. Good to know: wildlife is part of the setting, so keep food out of reach, and the resort is better suited to guests who enjoy a quiet countryside rhythm than to those who want nightlife.
Dining and facilities
The main restaurant serves buffet meals with Sri Lankan dishes and international favourites, and there is usually a bar near the pool for a drink at the end of the day. Activities such as cycling, bird watching and nature walks start from the grounds, which makes it easy to fill a free morning without leaving the hotel.
When to stay
Habarana works all year, since the sights in every direction suit different seasons, and the elephant parks nearby are at their most rewarding in the drier months. Because the hotel is a popular base for tour groups, consider asking for a quieter corner of the grounds and book ahead for peak travel periods. Two to three nights allow a relaxed pace.
Why stay here
- ✓Large outdoor pool
- ✓Garden grounds
- ✓Lake setting
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Bar
- ✓Excursion desk
- ✓Free WiFi
- ✓Air conditioning
Good questions
Why stay in Habarana?+
It is a central crossroads for Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and the elephant parks, with most sights within about an hour.
Can the hotel arrange safaris?+
Safari jeeps and drivers can usually be arranged through the hotel. Ask the front desk for the current options.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, the large grounds and pool suit children, though wildlife on the property means keeping an eye on food.
