Here are the top luxury resorts in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya / Dambulla / Habarana / Anuradhapura / Polonnaruwa), with a short note on why each is special and which sites they’re best for.

1. Heritance Kandalama — Kandalama (Dambulla area)

• Why: Geoffrey Bawa–designed landmark luxury hotel built into a rock outcrop with dramatic views over Kandalama Reservoir and Sigiriya; strong eco credentials and full-service spa and dining. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Best for: Sigiriya Rock, Dambulla Cave Temple, relaxed luxury and architecture lovers.
• Practical: About 10–20 minutes’ drive to Dambulla and ~20–30 minutes to Sigiriya depending on route.

2. Jetwing Vil Uyana — Sigiriya

• Why: High-end eco-reserve resort built on reconstructed wetlands and paddy fields; boutique villas (many with plunge pools), nature focus and proximity to Sigiriya. Great for birding and privacy. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Best for: Direct access to Sigiriya, wildlife/birdwatching, couples seeking secluded villa-style stays.

3. Ulagalla by Uga Escapes — near Anuradhapura / Thirappane

• Why: Boutique villa resort on a large private estate (detached pool villas), high service level, activities (horse-riding, kayaking, cycling) and easy access to Anuradhapura and the broader Cultural Triangle. (theluxevoyager.com)
• Best for: Travelers who want luxury villa privacy and to explore Anuradhapura as well as Sigiriya (about 45–60 minutes to Sigiriya).

4. Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (and Habarana Village by Cinnamon) — Habarana / close to Minneriya/Kaudulla

• Why: Large, comfortable lakeside resort with strong family facilities, well-regarded spa, many guided activities (elephant safaris, village experiences) and convenient location for Sigiriya, Minneriya/Kaudulla national parks and Polonnaruwa. (cinnamonhotels.com)
• Best for: Families and guests who want a full-service resort base for safaris, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.

5. Aliya Resort & Spa — Sigiriya area

• Why: Upscale resort with bungalow-style rooms and modern amenities located very close to Sigiriya; solid spa and several dining options — good mid-to-upper luxury choice inside the triangle. (aliyaandspa.luxury-hotels.com)
• Best for: Travelers prioritizing proximity to Sigiriya with resort comforts at a slightly lower price point than the top ultra-luxe properties.

Notes and quick tips

• Which to pick: choose Heritance Kandalama or Jetwing Vil Uyana if you want iconic architecture or an eco-luxury villa experience close to Sigiriya; pick Ulagalla if you prefer private pool villas and to be nearer Anuradhapura; pick Cinnamon Lodge Habarana for family-friendly full-service luxury and easy park/safari access. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Distances: Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura are all within 1–1.5 hours’ drive of many Cultural Triangle hotels (times vary by exact location and road conditions). For exact drive times from a specific hotel and dates, check the hotel’s website or your booking provider. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Booking tips: book villas/pool rooms early (limited inventory at boutique properties). For elephant safaris (Minneriya “elephant gathering”) and Sigiriya climbs, plan morning or late-afternoon slots and check local park schedules. Cinnamon, Jetwing and Uga have direct booking sites and major OTAs carry these properties. (cinnamonhotels.com)

If you’d like, I can:

• Compare two or three of these properties (prices, room types, pros/cons) for your travel dates; or
• Suggest a 3-night itinerary in the Cultural Triangle that pairs one of these luxury resorts with visits to Sigiriya, Dambulla and a safari.