Hotels in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura: Sri Lanka's Ancient Capital on the Northern Plain

Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years, from roughly the 4th century BCE until 1017 CE. The city holds one of the oldest continuously documented histories in Asia. Its sacred precinct — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 — contains nine colossal dagobas (stupas), including Jetavanaramaya, which stood 122 metres tall at completion around 300 CE and ranked among the tallest structures in the ancient world. The Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree planted in 288 BCE and grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, draws pilgrims year-round.

Where to Stay

Hotels cluster along Jayanthi Mawatha and near the Nuwarawewa tank, placing guests within cycling distance of the main archaeological sites. Budget guesthouses line the area around Maligawa Road; mid-range properties sit closer to the New Town. The ancient city ruins occupy a zone roughly 4 km² and cycling is the standard way to cover them — most hotels rent bicycles on-site.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Anuradhapura is 205 km north of Colombo; intercity trains from Colombo Fort take around 4 hours.
• Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees at all religious sites; the Sri Maha Bodhi requires removing shoes and hats.
• Best season: Visit between May and October (dry season in the north) to avoid the heaviest monsoon rains.