Hotels in Anuradhapura
Forest Rock Garden
Forest Rock Garden is a resort in the sacred and historic city of Anuradhapura. Its design takes inspiration from the temples, palaces and monasteries of the (...)
Rajarata Hotel
Rajarata Hotel stands on two acres in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, close to all the major sacred sites, which makes it a good place to rest after a day of (...)
The Lakeside Hotel at Nuwarawewa
The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa is in the heart of the ancient city of Anuradhapura, facing the Nuwarawewa reservoir with wide views over the water. It is about 5 (...)
Ulagalla by Uga Escapes
Ulagalla by Uga Escapes is a five star boutique resort in the Anuradhapura district, set on 58 acres of land surrounded by paddy fields and orchards. The open (...)
Close to the sacred city
The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa looks out over the Nuwarawewa reservoir and is about 5 km from Isurumuniya. It is a good choice if you want to be near the sites and see the water at sunset. Rajarata Hotel, on two acres with around 100 rooms, is also close to the main sites and is the practical pick for groups.
Further out, with more space
Forest Rock Garden is a four-star hotel set on 50 acres of ponds, boulders and waterways, with design taken from local temples and monasteries. Ulagalla by Uga Escapes is the most luxurious option: a five-star resort on 58 acres of paddy fields and orchards, with private villas and a pool some way outside the city.
At a glance
| Hotel | Area | Style |
|---|---|---|
| The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa | Nuwarawewa reservoir | Mid-range |
| Rajarata Hotel | Near the sacred city | Mid-range |
| Forest Rock Garden | Outside the city | Boutique, four-star |
| Ulagalla by Uga Escapes | Rural, outside the city | Five-star boutique |
Planning your visit
Start early. The Sri Maha Bodhi and the great stupas such as Ruwanwelisaya are active places of worship, so wear white or light clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and expect to walk barefoot on hot stone. Mihintale, a short drive east, is best climbed in the early morning or late afternoon.
Read our Anuradhapura guide or see things to do in Anuradhapura.
Quick picks
- Closest to the sites: The Lakeside at Nuwarawewa or Rajarata Hotel
- A special stay: Ulagalla by Uga Escapes
- Nature and space: Forest Rock Garden
How long to stay
One full day covers the main sites of the sacred city. Add a second if you want Mihintale and the Aukana Buddha, or a slower pace with a rest in the heat of the afternoon. Anuradhapura also works as a base for a long day at Wilpattu National Park.