CLOSE TO THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES OF POLONNARUWA

the hotel is within easy day-trip distances from other Cultural Triangle sites. Set amidst the dry zone tropical forests, it is also a good base for watching wild life in the nearby jungles and in the Minneriya National Park close by.

The open air, breezy and spacious reception conveys the easy-going pace of the hotel - simple, pleasant and hospitable. One of the hotel's best assets is the sweeping, magnificent view of the 12th-century ocean-like Giritale tank. Set on the upper slope of a hill, the veranda-lobby of the hotel looks upon tranquil blue water dotted with green islands, the dense forests on the opposite bank and the folds of mountains undulating in the horizon.

The sunset view is simply stunning from the lobby and the pool-deck beside it. Sitting here, during the dry season from end May to November you can watch big herds of wild elephants and deer coming to drink at the far off bank of the lake.

The hotel has its own herd of deer which roam the adjacent jungle park and come to be fed near the lobby.

The weekend programmes, that include an amazing stunt show and balancing show, are fun for kids. The elaborate tree house is another delight. Computers are provided at the basement bar to play games on.

The rooms are cosy, ensure basic comforts and have a soothing decor. All are air conditioned and have an IDD telephone. The lake can be seen from most of the rooms but the view is best from the windows of the deluxe rooms, two of which also have balconies and grass terraces.

There are bird watching trails and jungle treks nearby. The hotel provides guides for these and also arranges jeep safaris to the Minneriya National Park. Elephant rides can be arranged and the hotel tractors can take you into nearby paddy-cultivating villages.