Sri Lanka’s most famous ancient city, Anuradhapura is a sprawling archaeological complex crammed with crumbling temples and evocative carvings, set to dazzle and delight eager explorers. Immensely popular with both local and international visitors, Anuradhapura’s impressive structures are still used for vibrant Buddhist ceremonies. There is a whole range of accommodation in the area, from simple guesthouses to beautiful luxury hotels. Our pick of the best places to stay in Anuradhapura offers elegance aplenty, whilst making the most of the lush surrounding landscape.

Set around a more modern rural town, Anuradhapura’s ancient marvels are best explored by bicycle, although a car or three-wheeler is great for getting from one main area to another. Highlights of the World Heritage site include the Jetavanarama Museum, the Citadel, and Abhayagiri Monastery — the latter of which boasts 2000-year-old ruins scattered throughout the forest. There’s a vibrant, festive feel around the Mahavihara, home to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi; transported from India as part of the tree under which Buddha reached enlightenment. Monkeys scamper between the ruins as Buddhists worship at sacred sites, prayer flags draped around ancient trees whose roots push upwards through the earth and into the ruins themselves.

The rock fortress of Sigiriya is 1.5 hours away, as are the spectacular National Parks of Kaudulla and Minneriya, home to hundreds of elepants. Wilpattu National Park, known for its rare leopards, is just just an hour to the west. Whether you’re keen to soak up the region's archaeological heritage or to venture further afield for superb safaris, our pick of the best places to stay in Anuradhapura promises a blissful hideaway to unwind in verdant surroundings.

The Best Places to Stay in Anuradhapura

For Boutique Chic

• Arachchi Heritage is a swish contemporary villa with just two minimalist bedrooms, plus polished concrete floors, crisp white linens and wooden furnishings. Tranquil Thissawewa is nearby, and there's a refreshing courtyard pool. Book one bedroom or take the whole house for a trip with friends.

For Rural Luxury

• Ulagalla Resort is a luxurious eco-resort with 25 villas hidden in lush gardens. Think elegant bedrooms, indulgent private pools, and delectable cuisine. The resort's elephant conservation project is hugely impressive, and wildlife tours for guests of all ages are very special. Choose this spot for a romantic escape surrounded by nature.

For an Apartment or Private Villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Anuradhapura is 3 hours’ drive from Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver who knows the roads well.
• Alternatively, hop aboard the train from Fort Station in Colombo for a scenic journey. Tickets are cheap and trains are slow, but this is a superb way to experience Sri Lanka. Regular local buses are also available.
• Temperatures in Sri Lanka hit their peak in March - April, making for a very sticky exploratory experience, but Anuradhapura is a popular year-round destination.
• You’ll need to cover your knees and shoulders when visiting sacred sites — that goes for men and women — and you will be asked to remove your shoes, so do plan your outfit accordingly!

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Dambulla.
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.