Hotels in Mannar
The Palmyrah House
The Palmyrah House is a boutique hotel in Mannar, about six hours from Colombo. Mannar is far less developed than other coastal holiday areas, with no shopping (...)
Shell Coast Resort
Shell Coast Resort is a beachfront property in the Mannar area, about 6 hours by road from Colombo. The area is far less developed than Sri Lanka's busier (...)
Hotel Agape
Hotel Agape is a small budget hotel close to Mannar town, on Mannar Island in the north-west of Sri Lanka. It is about 284 km from Bandaranaike International (...)
The hotels
The Palmyrah House is a boutique hotel with 14 rooms, and the most comfortable place to stay on the island. Shell Coast Resort is a mid-range hotel right on the beach. Hotel Agape is a simple budget option close to Mannar town, about 284 km from the international airport.
At a glance
| Hotel | Area | Style |
|---|---|---|
| The Palmyrah House | Mannar island | Boutique |
| Shell Coast Resort | Mannar beach | Mid-range |
| Hotel Agape | Near Mannar town | Budget |
What to see
Drive out to Talaimannar to look across Adam's Bridge, visit the huge baobab tree, and see the old and new Mannar bridges. The lagoons and salt pans are some of the best places in the country for birdwatching, especially for migratory waders and flamingos between about October and March.
When to come
Mannar is dry for much of the year. Heavy rain usually arrives with the north-east monsoon from around October to December.
See our Mannar guide.
Quick picks
- Comfort: The Palmyrah House
- Beachfront: Shell Coast Resort
- Budget: Hotel Agape
Getting there
Mannar is reached over a causeway from the mainland. It combines well with Anuradhapura, Wilpattu or a trip north to Jaffna. Allow at least one night; two if you want time for birdwatching.
Who it suits
Mannar is for travellers who like quiet places: birdwatchers, photographers and anyone who has already seen the main sights. There is little nightlife and few restaurants, so most meals are at your hotel.