Royal Nest Hotel
History in the lap of luxury in Polonnaruwa
UNESCO World Heritage site Polonnaruwa, is the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms. It was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, this ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned archeological relic sites in the country, standing as testimony to the discipline and greatness of the kingdom’s first rulers.
It has become a central hub for both Sri Lankan religious travellers and overseas visitors to explore the surrounding area.
The Royal Nest Hotel is a star class resort built in the historical Bendiwewa area in Polonnaruwa, located in close proximity to ancient Lankathilake, Stone Pond and Gal Viharaya. Opened in March 2013, ‘Royal Nest Hotel' is one of the most modern hotels in the area with a traditional touch. It has gained popularity within a short period of time. The reason behind its success is the blend of history and luxury.
Structured in a way to provide every traveller with a magnificent view across the Bendiwewa, ‘Royal Nest Hotel' is a modern setup with comfortable and peaceful atmosphere.
The guests can view the illuminated splendour of Lankathilake, Naipena Viharaya, Vishnu Devalaya, Gal Viharaya, Rankoth Vehera and Alahana Pirivena just across the kingdom’s Vahalkada or East gate.
The hotel boasts of twelve modern rooms. It features five deluxe double rooms, two superior triple rooms and five family rooms. Each room features a large seating area and verandah.
K. H. SARATH R. KUMARA ‘Our rooms are equipped with all modern amenities that will make every guest relaxed after a heavy day of tours around the city and the Somawathiye tour’
‘Our rooms are equipped with all modern amenities that will make guests relaxed after a heavy day of tours around the city and tour to Somawathiye Chaithya. The hotel can accommodate up to 32 pax in all 12 rooms,’ said K. H. Sarath R. Kumara, the proprietor of the hotel.
All Superior rooms are equipped with modern furniture which includes a king size bed, LED television, mini bar and a large balcony overlooking the Sacred city. Bathrooms are spacious with modern rain shower and glazed floor. Deluxe rooms are provided with all facilities including hot and cold running water.
Royal Nest Hotel has engineered cuisine to suit the diverse palates of the many different nationalities that visit the Cultural Triangle.
‘But our speciality is authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Our traditional dishes are very popular with all Sri Lankans visiting the place,’ said Chef Ravi. Offering a barbecue and views of the garden, the resort is a place for global dining. The Main Restaurant offers the main dining facilities, while pool area has become the most popular evening gathering place of the hotel.
Royal Nest Hotel is the ideal launching pad to explore the historic sacred city. Statue of King Parakramabahu, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Rankoth Vehera, Lankathilake, Hatadage, Thivanka Pilimaya, Nelum Pokuna, Thuparamaya and Shiva Devalaya are some of the points in the Solosmasthanaya.
‘Apart from these attractions in the sacred city, the most visited place is Somawathiya Chaithya, about 40 kms away in the midst of the jungle’ Sarath Kumara said.
Guests can go cycling too and explore the surrounding areas.
Apart from the heritage aspect of being surrounded by history and the Cultural Triangle, it is just 15 minutes away from the country’s most popular park, Minneriya, just 30 minutes away, Wilpattu National Park, where adventurous travellers can witness many inland lakes, elephants, leopards, deer, sambhur and many other species.
Kaudulla, Huruluwewa Park, Somawathiya, Medirigiriya, Dimbulagala and Passikudah beach are some of the other attractions within two hours’ drive.
‘All travellers and travel agents have to get out of the traditional thinking that Polonnaruwa is just a two day stopover for foreigners and just a pilgrimage destination for Sri Lankans. It has the potential for at least a five day destination status’ Kumara emphasised.