Find hotels in Anuradhapura from £9

Top reasons to visit Anuradhapura

• Ancient Ruins: Anuradhapura is renowned for its impressive ancient temples and historic monuments, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich heritage.
• Scenic Nature Parks: The tranquil nature parks provide a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities amidst lush landscapes.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the lively atmosphere with local events, traditional ceremonies, and engaging guided tours.
• Diverse Accommodation: A variety of lodging options, from charming guesthouses to comfortable hotels, cater to all traveller preferences.
• Recreational Activities: Enjoy cycling around ancient stupas or stargazing for a delightful blend of adventure and tranquillity.

Find great hotels in and around Anuradhapura

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Anuradhapura, ranging from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly stay, a pet-friendly environment, or facilities tailored for business travellers, Anuradhapura has something to suit every need. Explore hotels like the esteemed Rajarata Hotel and other excellent lodgings that promise a memorable experience in this historic city.

• Rajarata Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is ideal for the adventurous traveller, boasting a solid guest rating of 8.0. Located in the heart of Anuradhapura, Rajarata Hotel offers a blend of comfort and excitement. The hotel is perfect for those seeking adventure sports, with activities such as nearby bicycle rentals, hiking, and fishing readily available. Its focus on business travel ensures all necessary amenities are at hand, making it a versatile choice for both leisure and work-related stays.
• Heritage Hotel: A charming 3-star lodging, Heritage Hotel is tailored for families and those looking to unwind. With thoughtful amenities for children, such as a shared playground and arcade game room, it ensures a family-friendly environment. Guests can relax with full spa services and enjoy the outdoor pool, complete with loungers and a poolside bar. Rated well for its welcoming atmosphere, Heritage Hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family fun in Anuradhapura.
• Uga Ulagalla - Anuradhapura: This luxurious 5-star resort, rated an impressive 9.6, is set 19.3km from Anuradhapura and is a haven for families and adventure seekers alike. Uga Ulagalla offers a plethora of activities, including onsite horse riding, hiking, and mountain biking. The resort is equipped with a full-service spa offering various treatments and an outdoor pool. With child-friendly amenities and supervised childcare available, it is an excellent choice for a memorable family getaway.

Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a city steeped in history, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Explore the vibrant town, where ancient ruins meet modern life, and discover hidden gems nestled within lush landscapes. Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities for recreation, whether it’s cycling around ancient stupas or enjoying a tranquil night under the stars. Anuradhapura promises an enriching experience for every traveller seeking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.

• New Town: Nestled in the heart of Anuradhapura, New Town is a quaint village that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. The village experiences moderately seasonal traveller arrivals, with peak visits occurring in July and during the December to January festive season. Visitors are drawn to New Town for its recreational areas, shopping centres, and nearby national parks, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy nature and adventure. Whether you're exploring trails or unwinding in the local shopping mall, New Town promises a delightful experience for every traveller.
• Nuwarawewa: A charming village within Anuradhapura, Nuwarawewa is a cultural gem that attracts visitors seeking historical and cultural experiences. Like New Town, its traveller numbers peak in July and around the festive months of December to January. The village is home to several significant landmarks, including ancient temples and historic buildings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. For those keen on exploring the cultural tapestry of the region, Nuwarawewa is an unmissable destination.
• Maha Ratmale: Located in close proximity to Anuradhapura, Maha Ratmale is a family-friendly village that offers a delightful beach experience. With visitor numbers peaking during the same seasonal peaks as the other villages, Maha Ratmale is perfect for families looking to enjoy outdoor activities and beachside relaxation. The area features a family beach, urban parks, and recreational spots that create a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Whether you wish to bask in the sun or partake in family outings, Maha Ratmale is a wonderful choice for a memorable vacation.

Things to do in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic experiences for visitors. You can explore local attractions, enjoy recreational areas, and partake in guided tours. The town also features shopping centres and malls for those looking to indulge in retail therapy. Additionally, you might find live music events, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this historical city, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and excitement.

Shopping

Anuradhapura offers a charming shopping experience with local markets like the Anuradhapura Central Market, where you can find fresh produce and handcrafted souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the larger malls like the Cargills Food City, around 16.1km away, for a variety of goods and local snacks.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Anuradhapura Heritage Spa, where you can indulge in traditional Ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenating massages. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the sacred ancient city, immersing yourself in its rich history and serene atmosphere.

Adventure

In Anuradhapura, explore the ancient ruins by cycling through the historic city, where you’ll encounter magnificent stupas and sacred trees. Venture to the nearby Wilpattu National Park for a thrilling safari, spotting leopards and elephants in their natural habitat, offering a true taste of Sri Lanka’s wildlife adventure.

Nightlife

Experience Anuradhapura's nightlife by visiting the popular Heritage Café for delightful local dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. For a lively evening, check out the trendy Taavadi Lounge, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance to vibrant music while mingling with locals and other travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Anuradhapura

• 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 March and December to January, 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 Saturday. 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 the type of accommodation you desire. To uncover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Anuradhapura with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, boasting a wealth of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore ancient temples, historic monuments, and palaces, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of the area. Key attractions include the vibrant city of Anuradhapura, the ancient ruins, and the tranquil nature park, offering a perfect blend of history and natural splendour for an unforgettable holiday.

• Ruwanwelisaya: This magnificent stupa is one of Sri Lanka's oldest and largest, symbolising the rich cultural heritage of Anuradhapura. Visitors can marvel at its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a significant spiritual site for Buddhists.
• Mirisawetiya Stupa: A historical gem, the Mirisawetiya Stupa offers a glimpse into the ancient architectural prowess of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush greenery, it provides a tranquil setting for reflection and appreciation of its cultural significance.
• Ratna Prasada: This ancient monastery stands as a testament to the spiritual life of the monks who once resided here. Its unique design and historical context create a profound experience for visitors seeking to understand the monastic traditions of Sri Lanka.

Best time to go to Anuradhapura

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Average
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	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Anuradhapura

To reach Anuradhapura, you can fly into Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), situated 138.4km away. A variety of excellent hotels are available nearby, such as the 5-star Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort located 6.4km from the airport, offering convenient access. Another option is the 5-star Sentido Heritance Negombo, which is 8.0km away and provides airport shuttle services. Amagi Aria, also a 5-star resort, sits just 4.8km from the airport, ensuring easy transport options. Each hotel offers reliable transportation services to CMB, making your journey to Anuradhapura seamless and enjoyable.