Anuradhapura

Travel Guide

A large brick dome structure with a smaller brick building on top, set against a partly cloudy sky.
A large white dome with a golden spire, surrounded by a low wall with colorful stripes.
A large, white stupa with a golden spire, surrounded by stone steps and a cloudy sky.
A large, domed structure with a conical roof, surrounded by a fence and a small pond reflecting the building.
Two Buddha statues in meditation poses, one yellow and one orange, with a spiral design in the background and purple flowers in the foreground.

Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Find the best Anuradhapura areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Anuradhapura
Learn more about Anuradhapura
A rustic outdoor market stall with a corrugated metal roof, a wooden bench, and a woman standing behind a counter.
Photo by Minul Tennakoon
Open Photo by Minul Tennakoon

Wijayapura

While Wijayapura might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Nuwara Wewa and Mirisawetiya Stupa.

Rajarata Hotel

Rajarata Hotel

3.5 out of 5
77 Rowing Club Road Anuradhapura
$64 nightly
The price is $77 total per night from Oct 2 to Oct 3
$77 total
Oct 2 - Oct 3
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Nuwara Wewa and Jetawanaramaya ...
Rajarata Hotel
The Lake Forest Hotel

The Lake Forest Hotel

3 out of 5
103, Tissa Wewa Lane, Pothanegama Anuradhapura NC
$167 nightly
The price is $197 total per night from Oct 21 to Oct 22
$197 total
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Isurumuniya Vihara and Mirisawetiya Stupa are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (69 reviews)
"Very helpful staff, excellent location."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2026

The Lake Forest Hotel
The Ivy Lake

The Ivy Lake

3 out of 5
115 Dharmapala Mawatha Anuradhapura
$20 nightly
The price is $24 total per night from Oct 2 to Oct 3
$24 total
Oct 2 - Oct 3
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Nuwara Wewa and Jetawanaramaya Museum are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (33 reviews)
"Great staff, good food and all round value for money"

Reviewed on Sep 2, 2026

The Ivy Lake
See all 210 properties in Anuradhapura
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Breedon Residence Hotel - Anuradhapura

Breedon Residence Hotel - Anuradhapura

3 out of 5
388/17 Wewa Rd Anuradhapura NC
Book a stay at this business-friendly villa in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Nuwara Wewa and Jetawanaramaya ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
"This is a lovely modern property. Accommodation is spacious and attractive, and there is a restaurant on site. It is in a suburban location, but not far from local services and attractions by tuk tuk. It's a greast choice for visitors to Anuradhapura. There is a swimming pool on site which is very ..."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2026

Breedon Residence Hotel - Anuradhapura
Villa Tambaka Retreat

Villa Tambaka Retreat

3.5 out of 5
Saliya Mawatha Anuradhapura North Central
Book a stay at this family-friendly villa in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Kuttam Pokuna and Samadhi ...
5/10 (2 reviews)
"Very friendly staff, but there was no hot water and rooms missing some of the supplied amenities, and rooms quiet noisy with sounds from other rooms."

Reviewed on Feb 15, 2026

Villa Tambaka Retreat
Centri Villa

Centri Villa

3.5 out of 5
1st Lane, Dharmapala Mawatha Anuradhapura NC
Book a stay at this business-friendly villa in Anuradhapura. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Jetawanaramaya Museum ...
Centri Villa
See all properties in Anuradhapura
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Anuradhapura attractions

Ruwanwelisaya

9.4/10 (25 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura with a trip to Ruwanwelisaya. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.
See properties

Things to do

Minneriya: Full-Day 4x4 Safari, Secret Trails & Jungle Lunch

Minneriya: Minneriya National Park Private Half Day Safari

$39
per adult
Minneriya: Minneriya National Park Private Half Day Safari
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

$39
per adult
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds
Minneriya National Park: Morning or Evening Safari

Minneriya National Park: Morning or Evening Safari

$33
per adult
Minneriya National Park: Morning or Evening Safari
Anuradhapura ancient city

Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura

$30
per adult
Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura
From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari

From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari

$60
per adult
From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari
Minneriya Wild Adventure with Expert Driver-Guide

Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide

$24
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide
See all activities in Anuradhapura

Frequently asked questions

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?
Anuradhapura is worth visiting for its significant historical and spiritual sites, including the revered Ruwanwelisaya stupa and the ancient Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Travelers can also enjoy diverse culinary experiences, with options ranging from authentic Asian dishes to a variety of vegan and vegetarian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?
The best time to visit Anuradhapura is from November through February, when the climate is most pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of May through August are a good option, though it can be warmer during this period.
What is Anuradhapura known for?
Anuradhapura is known for its ancient religious sites, including the Ruwanwelisaya stupa and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree. This city in Sri Lanka is a UNESCO World Heritage site, also featuring the historic Nuwara Wewa reservoir. Travelers can explore these significant landmarks that reflect the area's rich heritage.
What is a good itinerary length for Anuradhapura?
A good itinerary length for Anuradhapura is one to two days to explore historical sites like Ruwanwelisaya and Sri Maha Bodhi, and relax by Nuwara Wewa. An extended stay of three to four days allows for deeper exploration of these points of interest, or as part of a longer historical tour of Sri Lanka. See Anuradhapura Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Anuradhapura?
Anuradhapura offers a journey through ancient history and sacred sites, with opportunities for nature adventures nearby:

  • Visit Ruwanwelisaya, an ancient and revered stupa.
  • Explore Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree and pilgrimage site.
  • See Nuwara Wewa, a historic man-made reservoir.
  • Discover Thuparamaya, considered the first stupa in Sri Lanka.
  • Enjoy a Kayaking and Safari Adventure near Sigiriya for a day in nature.

How do I plan a trip to Anuradhapura?
When planning your trip to Anuradhapura, book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. Consider experiences like the 10 Day Sri Lanka Adventure Private Guided Tour or the 4-Day Private Historical Tour in Sri Lanka. Plan outdoor visits to landmarks such as Ruwanwelisaya and Sri Maha Bodhi for early morning or late afternoon.
What cuisines can you find in Anuradhapura?
In Anuradhapura, travelers can enjoy Sri Lankan cuisine, featuring popular dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu roti. You'll also find many vegan and vegetarian options, as well as Italian dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Anuradhapura?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Anuradhapura by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Anuradhapura with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Anuradhapura trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Anuradhapura?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Anuradhapura can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Anuradhapura trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Anuradhapura trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Anuradhapura trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Anuradhapura trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Anuradhapura?
If it's your first trip to Anuradhapura, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Anuradhapura hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Anuradhapura hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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