Sigiriya

Water Garden Sigiriya

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Water Garden Sigiriya

About Water Garden Sigiriya

A real (re)treat in the middle of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.

One stroll across the patchwork of lotus ponds and tree-lined walkways sets the scene for the restful days that are sure to follow. Inspired by the 2000-year-old water garden atop Sigiriya Rock, the resort's villas are set on stilts overlooking curving waterways, which you can explore by boat. Designed by the protégé of Sri Lanka's most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the resort's interiors are cool and polished. Sip on a cocktail as peacocks colour the landscape and cormorants dive for fish, with views of the eye-catching rock fortress in the distance. The Water Garden may be blissfully off-the-beaten-track but it's close to Sigiriya's historic temples and wild reserves.

Sigiriya , Sri Lanka

From $320 per person/per night

None

30 Rooms

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Property details

The property

Dine on local favourites and more international fare at the main restaurant, which is decked out in funky chairs with a handcrafted copper chandelier overhead. For an extra dose of Sri Lankan cuisine, join the chef at a cookery demo. The Twin Level Bar has a vibey cocktail lounge with a billiards table and a spacious terrace looking out at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Just next door is the large infinity pool with plenty of shaded loungers to go around, plus a pool for the kids! The spa is simple but lovely with Indian head massages, aromatherapy and everything in between.

The rooms

With views of the shimmering waterways and pockets of greenery, the 30 villas each have stylish interiors in shades of cream. Light wooden furnishings include king size beds covered in sheer drapes and sliding glass doors which open onto a sunny patio with rattan loungers - as well as a plunge pool for the superior villas. The duplex villas are the resort's finest with two bedrooms, a pool with a jacuzzi and sundeck to spot wildlife in the lush surrounds. En-suite bathrooms come with a walk-in shower and twin basins.

Activities

Visit the region's chief attraction, the 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress where you can hike to the top to see the scenic gardens and beautiful frescoes. In season, venture a little further out of the way on a jeep drive to Minneriya National Park where you can watch the famous gathering of elephants. Join the resort's naturalist on the Rangirigama Birding Trail, looking for kingfisher, marsh crocodile and grey langur on the way, before settling for a picnic on the banks of the lake. Back at the Water Gardens, enjoy cycling across the grounds and a round of archery.

Why we love it

Waking up to idyllic views over the canal, playing a game of croquet on the lawns and personal butlers to boot!

Insiders Tip

The property is pretty large (though not unwalkable) and traditional buggies are at your disposal for quick rides to the pool.

Something to think about

The Water Garden's seclusion means the WiFi is a tad sluggish, but that's all part of its charm.

Trips

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How to book Water Garden Sigiriya

How do I book Water Garden Sigiriya?

Water Garden Sigiriya can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Sri Lanka trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Sri Lanka trips featuring Water Garden Sigiriya or get advice and suggestions from one of our Sri Lanka specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Water Garden Sigiriya?

Stays at Water Garden Sigiriya start from around $320 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Sri Lanka

Sigiriya

An ancient and dramatic rock palace that is quite literally the crown jewel of Sri Lanka.