Deer Park Hotel, Giritale, Sri Lanka

Nestled along the banks of the Giritale Tank within the Polonnaruwa district, Deer Park Hotel offers a peaceful retreat set in a natural jungle habitat. The property serves as an ideal base for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in both the natural landscape and the rich heritage of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle. From Colombo or the international airport at Katunayake, guests can expect approximately a five-hour drive to reach the hotel.

The setting is quietly dramatic — water lily ponds, landscaped gardens, and views across the Giritale reservoir define the surroundings, while jeep safaris to wildlife parks and excursions to ancient capitals with their remarkable ruins are easily arranged from the hotel.

Accommodation

All 40 cottage units at Deer Park Hotel are furnished with double or twin beds, a living area with a daybed, air-conditioning, a ceiling fan, satellite television, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests may choose from four cottage categories depending on their preferences and group size.

• Superior Cottage — Rustic cottages surrounded by trees, available as single units or four-unit blocks suited to larger groups. Upper-storey units feature indoor showers and a shared balcony, while ground-floor cottages have a living area and an outdoor bathroom.
• Duplex Cottage — Double-storey cottages ideal for families and groups, with the bedroom occupying the upper floor for a quieter night's rest and outdoor bathroom and shower facilities below.
• Angsana Cottage — Spacious units surrounded by water lily ponds and landscaped gardens, each with its own private gazebo overlooking the Giritale reservoir.
• Deluxe Duplex Cottage — More spacious than the standard duplex, these cottages offer a choice of pool, forest or pond views and are particularly well suited to couples. The ground floor features a living area, outdoor bathroom, and dressing area.

Dining

The Ebony Restaurant is the hotel's main dining venue, serving local and international cuisine in an air-conditioned interior or outdoors with views of the Giritale reservoir. Tree Tops provides a fine-dining experience featuring food and wines from around the world. The hotel also organises private dining — a personalised breakfast, high tea, or dinner under the stars in an exotic open-air setting. The Sandpiper bar is an inviting spot to relax, and jungle barbecues are a celebrated highlight of the Deer Park experience.

Facilities and Spa

The Angsana Spa at Deer Park Hotel provides a tranquil and private environment for a range of invigorating treatments. A large swimming pool with an adjoining children's pool, sun beds, a badminton court, and beautifully landscaped gardens round out the leisure offerings, along with ample parking space on the grounds.