MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

The Ancient Cities, Sri Lanka

Accommodation Types

Standard Accommodation Categories

  • Guesthouses/Homestays

    Most common and budget-friendly. Often family-run, they present local hospitality and a chance to experience Sri Lankan home life. Many include breakfast.

  • Small Hotels

    Mid-range choices with air conditioning, private bathrooms with hot water, and sometimes small pools. They present a comfortable stay without a high price tag.

  • Resorts

    A few larger, luxurious resorts are available, typically located with extensive grounds and fuller facilities, including larger pools and multiple dining options.

  • Eco-lodges

    Some properties focus on sustainable practices, often situated in natural settings just outside the main town. They appeal to travelers seeking connection with nature and a reduced environmental footprint.

Diverse Stay Options

  • Vacation Rentals

    While limited, the availability of vacation rentals and apartments through platforms like Vrbo is growing. These present more space and self-catering facilities, suitable for families or longer stays.

  • House Sitting

    Consider house sitting via TrustedHousesitters for unique local experiences and reduced accommodation costs.

  • Hostels

    For budget travelers, hostels feature dormitory beds and private rooms. Search options on Hostelworld.

  • Online Booking Platforms

    Find a wide array of options on global booking platforms like Booking.com and Agoda, and explore hotel chains such as IHG Hotels.

Neighborhood Guide

Anuradhapura divides into distinct areas, each offering a different atmosphere and convenience level for visitors.

New Town Anuradhapura City

Advantages
  • Commercial hub
  • Local services, bus and train stations
  • Bustling markets, banks, wide array of budget eateries
  • Lively, local experience.
Considerations
  • Further from the ancient city complex.
  • Requires a tuk-tuk or bike ride to reach historical sites.
  • Can be noisier due to commercial activity.

Old Town / Sacred City Area

Advantages
  • Closest proximity to main ancient sites.
  • Generally quieter and more scenic.
  • Guesthouses nestled near ancient reservoirs or within view of ruins.
Considerations
  • Fewer local amenities (restaurants, shops) compared to New Town.
  • Accommodation can be more expensive.

General Considerations

Proximity & Transportation
  • New Town: Close to transport hubs, convenient for onward travel and daily needs.
  • Old Town: Walking or cycling distance to many archaeological sites, reducing travel time to attractions.
Ambiance & Noise
  • New Town: Bustling with local life and possibly noisy, especially during the day.
  • Old Town: Presents a more tranquil and peaceful ambiance, ideal for quiet reflection.

Safety and Important Notes

Safety in Areas

Both New and Old Town areas are generally considered safe for tourists.

Standard Travel Precautions

General precautions apply, especially when moving around after dark.

Booking Strategies

Planning your accommodation booking advances your travel experience.

Booking Timing and Platforms

  • Booking is recommended during the peak season (December-March) to secure your preferred accommodation, especially for mid-range and luxury options.
  • During the low season, walk-ins might discover better rates and more availability.
  • Rely on reputable international booking sites when reserving your accommodation.
  • Many local guesthouses also use these platforms for reservations.

Policies and Pricing

  • Policies vary by property. Check the terms carefully before confirming your booking. Understand the deposit requirements and the flexibility of cancellation.
  • Prices for accommodations are generally higher during the dry season (December-March) and around major local holidays, like Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April or Poson Poya in June.
  • Compare prices across different platforms for the best value.
  • Direct inquiries with properties sometimes result in special offers.

Consideration for Booking

Pre-Payment Clarity

Always confirm whether any quoted price includes all taxes and service charges upfront.

Review Insights

Reading recent guest reviews on booking platforms can present valuable insights into a property's current condition and service quality.

Local Expertise

Some guesthouses accept direct bookings, which can sometimes result in better rates or more personalized service.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are general categories of accommodation to consider, which you can search for on your preferred booking sites based on your budget and needs.

Budget and Mid-Range Categories

Guesthouse / Homestay

Often family-run, these offer an authentic local experience.

  • Fan-cooled rooms, basic private bath.
  • Breakfast frequently included.
  • Great for meeting other travelers and receiving local advice.
  • Many offer single rooms or dorm beds.
Small Hotel / Boutique Guesthouse

These feature a good balance of comfort and value.

  • Air conditioning, private bath, hot water.
  • Sometimes a pool, restaurant.
  • Often situated in quieter locations.
  • Look for properties with unique local touches.

Luxury and Upscale Categories

Resort / Upscale Hotel

These properties present larger rooms and full-service amenities.

  • Large pools, fine dining options.
  • Can be situated slightly outside the immediate ancient city area.
  • Look for options offering extensive grounds and recreational activities.
  • Search for IHG Hotels for quality stays.
Properties with Unique Charm

Some guesthouses located within the old town present views of ancient tanks or direct proximity to ruins.

  • A tranquil backdrop for your visit.
  • Discover properties on Agoda for a wide range.
  • For vacation rentals, Vrbo lists various options.
  • Explore Booking.com for a comprehensive selection.

Family and Solo Traveler Tips

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Seek hotels or guesthouses with family rooms, swimming pools, and larger grounds, which present space for children to play.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Guesthouses are excellent for meeting other travelers and gaining local advice. Many offer single rooms or dorm beds, search Hostelworld.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    For extended stays, guesthouses or self-catering apartments might offer better rates. Inquire directly with properties about discounts for longer bookings.

  • Culturally Significant Stays

    Consider properties within the old town for direct proximity to ruins and views of ancient tanks.

Booking & Value Insights

  • Research Thoroughly

    Read reviews and compare amenities to find a property aligning with your travel style.

  • Direct Bookings

    Sometimes contacting guesthouses directly can result in personalized service or special rates.

  • Value for Money

    Balance price with location and comfort to discover the best fit for your budget.

  • Confirm Reservations

    Always reconfirm your booking closer to your arrival date, especially during peak seasons.

Global Accommodation Access

Main Booking Portals

Find a vast selection of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts across Anuradhapura.

  • Booking.com for comprehensive global listings.
  • Agoda for strong Asian market presence.
  • IHG Hotels for consistent brand standards.
  • Secure your preferred stay at competitive prices.
Alternative Accommodation Styles

Explore unique and budget-friendly lodging experiences.

  • Hostelworld for budget hostels and social stays.
  • Vrbo for private vacation rentals, ideal for groups and families.
  • TrustedHousesitters for house and pet sitting opportunities.
  • Discover different ways to experience Anuradhapura.

Accommodation Considerations

Location Choice

Select between the bustling New Town for local life or the tranquil Old Town for proximity to ancient sites.

Budget Flexibility

Options range from affordable guesthouses to luxury resorts, catering to various financial plans.

Seasonal Planning

Book well in advance during peak season to secure preferred lodging and rates.