The Ancient Cities - Sri Lanka - page 485

The waterside Potgul Mawatha (Lake Rd) is a beautiful ride, taking you along the
shores of the Parakrama Samudra tank.
Giritale
027 / Pop 8200
Northwest of Polonnaruwa on the Habarana road, Giritale is a sleepy, spread-out settle-
ment alongside the impressive 7th-century Giritale Tank. It's essentially a rural commu-
nity, with a few places to stay (all 7km to 15km from Polonnaruwa). It makes a good base
for visiting both the ruins of Polonnaruwa and Minneriya National Park.
Sleeping
There's a growing selection of accommodation in the Giritale area.
Lak Nilla HOMESTAY
( 077 911 5265, 224 6808; [e-mail] ; r Rs 2500; )
A very simple but hospitable homestay with three clean rooms in a friendly local's house,
in a village setting off the highway. A sumptious dinner costs Rs 650 and bikes can be
hired and safaris set up. It's around 10km northwest of Polo.
Rice Villa Retreat GUESTHOUSE
( 077 630 2070; www.letsgolankatours ; 21 mile post, Polonnaruwa Rd, Jayanthipura;s Rs
4000-4500, d Rs 4500-5000; )
A memorable place to stay, this beautifully located guesthouse enjoys an idyllic position
overlooking an expanse of rice paddies. Bungalows are well-appointed, with modern bath-
rooms and contemporary design touches. After a hot day travelling, the spa - offering
treatments and massages - is very tempting indeed. But best of all, the hospitality from the
family owners is warm and genuine.
Add Rs 1000 if you want air-conditioning. Meals are excellent and cooking classes are
offered. Reserve in advance and arrange a pickup from the Giritale bus stop, which is
3.5km to the east.