Great — here are well-regarded “affordable luxury” (comfortable, stylish, good service but better value than top ultra‑luxury) resorts you can use as bases in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya / Dambulla / Habarana / Polonnaruwa / Anuradhapura). I list location, why it’s a good fit, approximate nightly price band (USD) to expect, and a quick tip for choosing or booking.

Top picks

1. Cinnamon Lodge Habarana — Habarana (best-value luxury base)

• Why: large eco‑resort with good facilities (pool, gardens, activities) positioned between Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa — often offers strong value compared with Sigiriya hotels. (delishtours.lk)
• Price (approx): $80–$160/night (varies by season and package).
• Tip: Habarana gives easier access to safaris and village tours while usually costing less than hotels with direct Sigiriya views.

2. Heritance Kandalama — near Dambulla / Sigiriya (iconic nature‑integrated 5★)

• Why: architecturally famous, tucked into forest with strong views and a top pool/restaurant; excellent for culture + comfort. Considered a signature stay in the Cultural Triangle. (onthegotours.com)
• Price (approx): $140–$300/night (often has promotions off‑peak).
• Tip: It’s often worth checking package rates (breakfast + activities) which can improve value.

3. Jetwing Vil Uyana — close to Sigiriya (eco‑luxury wetlands)

• Why: high‑end eco resort on recreated wetlands and paddy; unique setting and strong wildlife/birding opportunities while still offering villa‑style accommodation. (explorehiddensrilanka.com)
• Price (approx): $200–$400/night (sometimes lower in shoulder season).
• Tip: Ideal if you want a nature/eco vibe; book early for the best villas.

4. Water Garden Sigiriya — Sigiriya area (boutique luxury with fortress views)

• Why: boutique resort that focuses on views and comfort close to Sigiriya Rock — a good middle ground for luxury without ultra‑high prices. (explorehiddensrilanka.com)
• Price (approx): $120–$220/night.
• Tip: Best for early‑morning climbs to Sigiriya (short transfer).

5. Ulagalla by Uga Escapes — near Anuradhapura / Mihintale (boutique villa resort)

• Why: luxury villas with private pools in a large estate — upscale but occasionally has discounts that make it competitive for special stays. Good for quiet luxury near Anuradhapura. (thehotelguru.com)
• Price (approx): $300–$550/night (luxury band; watch for deals).
• Tip: More expensive than the others but excellent for a splurge night after exploring Anuradhapura.

6. Chaarya Resort & Spa / Kassapa Lion’s Rock / mid‑range boutique options — Sigiriya / Dambulla

• Why: several well‑rated boutique hotels and 4★ resorts in and around Sigiriya/Habarana offer modern comforts, good pools and easy access to sites at lower prices than flagship 5★ hotels. (Examples seen in regional guides and traveller reviews.) (explorehiddensrilanka.com)
• Price (approx): $60–$140/night.
• Tip: Great choice if you want clean, comfortable rooms and location close to the sites without the 5★ price.

Booking & timing tips

• Seasonality matters: high season (Dec–Mar and some school holiday periods) pushes prices up; shoulder and low seasons have the best deals. Expect the best value in shoulder months (April, September) per travel guides. (xplrverse.com)
• Habarana vs Sigiriya: Habarana accommodations are frequently cheaper while still being centrally located for Cultural Triangle day trips. (delishtours.lk)
• Look for package deals that include breakfast, dinner or site transfers — they frequently improve value for Cultural Triangle stays.
• If you want wildlife (elephant gatherings at Minneriya/Kaudulla), time your visit for the local dry‑season months when the herds concentrate (check current park conditions before booking).

If you’d like, I can:

• Compare 2–3 of these properties for specific travel dates you have (rates can vary widely by date), or
• Make a short 1‑night versus 3‑night cost comparison for a sample itinerary (e.g., Sigiriya climb + Minneriya safari + Polonnaruwa day trip).

Which option would you like me to do next?