Anuradhapura Hotels

Top reasons to visit Anuradhapura

• Ancient Ruins: Explore remarkable ancient temples and monuments that showcase Anuradhapura's rich history and culture.
• Nature Park: Enjoy a serene escape at the scenic Nature Park, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• Cultural Vibes: Experience vibrant local culture through live music and community events as the sun sets.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to welcoming hotels, catering to various preferences.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in exciting outdoor activities, offering both adventure and breathtaking landscapes.

Find great hotels in and around Anuradhapura

Experience a delightful stay in Anuradhapura, where a variety of accommodations await to cater to every traveler's needs. From charming guesthouses to well-appointed hotels, you'll find options perfect for business trips, family holidays, or pet-friendly getaways. Explore the renowned Rajarata Hotel and other inviting lodgings, all designed to ensure a memorable visit to this historic city in Sri Lanka.

• Rajarata Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.0 out of 10, is an ideal choice for those seeking adventure and business travel experiences. Nestled in Anuradhapura, Rajarata Hotel offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing and hiking, with options for bicycle rentals nearby. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere tailored for adventure seekers while benefiting from comfortable lodging and essential amenities for a pleasant stay.
• Heritage Hotel: A 3-star hotel situated in Anuradhapura, Heritage Hotel caters to families and business travellers alike. This property provides a spa-themed experience with a full-service spa and pool facilities, including a poolside bar and sun loungers for ultimate relaxation. Family-friendly amenities such as a playground and arcade game room ensure a welcoming environment for children, making it a great choice for those travelling with family.
• Uga Ulagalla - Anuradhapura: This luxurious 5-star resort, boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, is located approximately 19km away from Anuradhapura. Uga Ulagalla offers an opulent retreat for families and adventure enthusiasts, featuring on-site activities like mountain biking and horse riding. Children are well catered for with supervised childcare options and play areas. The serene surroundings and premium amenities make it a splendid choice for an indulgent getaway.

Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a historical gem in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Explore the ancient ruins and temples that tell tales of a rich past, while also discovering hidden gems tucked away in lush landscapes. As night falls, the town transforms, inviting you to experience its vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or tranquil nature spots, Anuradhapura promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse vibes.

• New Town: Nestled within the vibrant landscape of Anuradhapura, New Town is a charming village that attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in July and December to January. Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, this area offers a diverse array of activities including visits to national parks and local beaches. The shopping centre and mall are perfect for those looking to indulge in retail therapy, while the recreational areas provide a fantastic setting for relaxation and enjoyment amidst nature. New Town is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
• Attikulama: Located in close proximity to Anuradhapura, Attikulama is another delightful village that welcomes tourists seeking a blend of adventure and tranquillity. Like New Town, Attikulama experiences seasonal visitor peaks, particularly in July and December to January. The village is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to national and urban parks that showcase the region's stunning landscapes. Travellers can immerse themselves in the serene surroundings, making it a perfect spot for nature walks and exploration.
• Wijayapura: This vibrant neighbourhood, located around Anuradhapura, offers a delightful mix of urban attractions and family-friendly experiences. With visitor numbers peaking in the same seasonal patterns, Wijayapura invites families to explore its nearby beaches and urban parks. The area is perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable time for visitors of all ages. Experience the charm of local life while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds this lively neighbourhood.

Things to do in Anuradhapura

Shopping

Anuradhapura offers local markets where you can find handmade crafts and traditional souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby Habarana Village Resort, which has a shopping area featuring local products and artisanal goods.

Recreation

Experience serenity at the Ulagalla Resort's wellness centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions amidst lush greenery. Explore the tranquil surroundings with guided nature walks or partake in meditation sessions to enhance your peace of mind.

Adventure

In Anuradhapura, explore the ancient ruins of the Sacred City, where you can cycle through UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Challenge yourself with a hike up Mihintale, offering panoramic views. For a unique experience, consider a boat ride on the nearby reservoirs, surrounded by lush landscapes and wildlife.

Nightlife

Anuradhapura's nightlife offers a blend of local charm and laid-back vibes. Enjoy a refreshing drink at the popular Heritage Hotel Rooftop Bar, or opt for a relaxed evening at the quaint Café Ceylon, where you can savour delicious snacks and mingle with friendly locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Anuradhapura

To save money on your trip to Anuradhapura, plan your visit during the cheaper months of May to June or October, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Sundays are generally the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly accommodations and eco-certified hotels. Consider combining your hotel booking with flights and activities for additional savings, and keep an eye out for last-minute deals for potential discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Anuradhapura are May to June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to March, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Anuradhapura about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Anuradhapura is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Anuradhapura is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your hotel reservation in Anuradhapura with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura offers an enchanting blend of outdoor adventures and historical exploration, making it an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage by visiting ancient temples, monuments, and the historic palace. The city also features the scenic Nature Park, providing a serene escape. For an unforgettable experience, explore the captivating attractions within and around Anuradhapura, where history and nature intertwine beautifully.

• Thuparama Dagoba: This ancient temple is renowned for its rich cultural significance and architectural beauty. As one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka, it houses a relic of the Buddha, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage and a serene atmosphere for reflection.
• Basawakkulama: A historical reserve, Basawakkulama is perfect for those seeking a blend of recreation and history. Surrounded by lush greenery, it features tranquil walking paths and picnic spots, making it an ideal location for budget-friendly outdoor activities.
• Nuwara Wewa: This striking monument serves as a symbol of Anuradhapura's cultural heritage. With its picturesque setting, it offers opportunities for leisurely strolls and photography, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and historical context of the site.

Best time to go to Anuradhapura

The best time to visit Anuradhapura can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Anuradhapura falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Anuradhapura falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	82.4°F (28.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	82.4°F (28.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
September	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Anuradhapura

Accessing Anuradhapura from Sri Lanka's major airport, Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike International Airport), is quite convenient, as it is located 138km away. For a luxurious stay, consider Sentido Heritance Negombo, a 5-star hotel situated 8km from the airport, offering an airport shuttle service. Another excellent option is Jetwing Beach, also a 5-star hotel, located 10km from the airport and providing easy access. For an exclusive experience, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, is just 6km away and allows for seamless transfers to Colombo Airport, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey in Sri Lanka.