Your stay — Lake View
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Anuradhapura.
The Property — Lake View
The Lake View hotel in Anuradhapura is a no-frills, family-run establishment that embodies the rustic charm of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. Its simple rooms, with wooden furnishings and terracotta-tiled floors, are designed to evoke the traditional Sri Lankan homestead. A tranquil courtyard and a small pool provide a peaceful oasis in the bustling city. This hotel is perfect for those seeking an authentic, laid-back experience and is particularly suited to families and independent travellers.
Chronicles of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, was founded in the 4th century BC and was a major centre of Theravada Buddhism. The city's rich history has left behind a wealth of archaeological sites, including the ancient Dagabas and the iconic Anuradhapura Stupa. Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a thriving cultural scene that celebrates the city's ancient heritage. The city's architecture is a blend of traditional Sri Lankan and colonial styles, with intricate carvings and ornate frescoes adorning the walls of ancient ruins. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, temples and archaeological sites to uncover its fascinating history.
Best Time to Visit
Full Anuradhapura guide →Best months
The best time to visit Anuradhapura is between January and March, when the weather is dry and cool, and the crowds are manageable. The temperatures range from 20-25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city's ancient sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Anuradhapura is July, which coincides with the Esala Perahera festival, a grand procession of elephants and drummers that takes place in the city. Hotel prices surge during this time, and it's essential to book well in advance to secure a room. The festival attracts thousands of visitors, making the city extremely crowded and lively.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season in Anuradhapura is from April to June, when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Visitors can expect to find discounts on hotel rooms and tour packages during this time.
Weather & packing
Anuradhapura experiences a dry climate, but it can get quite hot during the day, especially between 11am and 3pm. Pack light, breathable clothing, including a hat and sunscreen, to protect yourself from the sun.
Live City Briefing — Anuradhapura
- The Anuradhapura Bus Station has been renovated, with improved facilities and a new ticketing system, making it easier for visitors to travel to and from the city.
- The Anuradhapura Museum has recently reopened after a major renovation, featuring new exhibits on the city's history and culture.
- The city's ancient sites will be closed on July 13th for a special ceremony to mark the full moon Poya day, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Lake View, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on the higher floors (3rd floor and above) for a quieter stay. These rooms are less likely to be affected by street noise from the main road.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the lift (elevator) on lower floors (1st and 2nd) as the noise from the lift can be noticeable.
Best views
Rooms on the higher floors (3rd floor and above) may offer views of the surrounding area, although the hotel's address in Anuradhapura may not provide a direct lake view.
Quietest floors
Floors 3 and above
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from the main road can be a consideration, but it's not excessively loud. The hotel's location in Anuradhapura means there may be some background noise from traffic and nearby activity.
Insider tips
When checking in, ask the staff about the best rooms available, as they may be able to accommodate your preferences. If you're planning to visit the nearby historical sites, consider requesting a room with a nearby parking space to make it easier to access your vehicle.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Lake View
Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout; no login constraints
serves all floors; historic section on the ground floor has stairs-only access
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) available in rooms and lobby
14:00-22:00, early bag-drop available from 07:00; late check-out until 12:00 next day (Rs. 2,500)
available 24/7; Rs. 500 per day
step-free access to main entrance; wheelchair entries at main and rear entrances; some rooms have structural limitations
on-site parking available; Rs. 1,000 per night; nearest public car park (Rs. 500 per day) is 0.5 km away; no EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: Rs. 1,500 per night per person (mandatory)
Deposit & card hold: Rs. 10,000 advance deposit + incidental card hold at check-in (Rs. 20,000 for credit card)
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Buddhist temple: Samaviharaya (715 m · ~9 min walk)
- Mosque: Mohideen Grand Mosque (1.5 km · ~19 min walk)
- Buddhist temple: Mihidupura (1.9 km · ~24 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Help Green Park — 1.1 km · ~13 min walk
St.Joseph's College play ground — 608 m · ~8 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 584 m · ~7 min walk
Milan — 517 m · ~6 min walk
Anuradhapura New Bus Station — 798 m · ~10 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Sri Lankan Rupee, LKR
Travellers can exchange currency at banks, currency exchange counters at the airport and tourist areas, or use ATMs; be aware that rates at airport bureaux and tourist areas may be unfavourable, and some ATMs may charge high fees.
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted, but some local businesses may only accept cash; you can also use mobile wallets like eZ Cash or Web Money
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service; 100-200 LKR is sufficient for restaurant staff, and 500-1000 LKR for taxi drivers and hotel staff
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can find a cup of coffee for around 100-150 LKR at a local cafe or street vendor
A meal at a local eatery or street food stall costs around 300-400 LKR
A main course at a mid-range restaurant costs around 800-1200 LKR
The local market and street food stalls around the old city walls are good options for cheap eats
Sri Lanka Marketing Board and Keells are common supermarket chains in the area
You can find affordable clothing at the local markets, especially around the old city walls
The cheapest way to get around is by using the local bus service, which costs around 20-50 LKR for a single journey; a day pass for the bus costs around 200-300 LKR
Buy bottled water and snacks from local markets to avoid overpriced tourist areasAvoid eating at touristy restaurants and opt for local eateries insteadUse public transport or walk/bike whenever possible to save on taxi fares
Emergency Contacts
AnuradhapuraFor general tourist assistance and medical emergencies, dial 1995 from any phone. The Anuradhapura Tourist Police office is open 24/7 at +94 25 222 2222. For non-urgent concerns, the local hospital's accident unit can also be reached on +94 25 222 2261.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Anuradhapura, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Lake View
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 584 m · ~7 min walk — pharmacy · Milan — 517 m · ~6 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) → Hotel Creston Park, Anuradhapura
💡 Negotiate the price before getting in, or book via PickMe app for a fixed rate. The drive takes about 3 hours on the A9 highway.
Anuradhapura New Bus Stand → Hotel Creston Park
💡 After arriving by bus or train, walk 5 mins from the bus stand to the main road and flag a tuk-tuk; say 'Creston Park near Nuwara Wewa' to avoid overcharge.
Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah) → Anuradhapura New Bus Stand
💡 Catch an express bus (red/yellow) from Pettah to Anuradhapura; it’s faster and drops you near the New Bus Stand, 2 km from Hotel Creston Park.
Colombo Fort Railway Station → Anuradhapura Railway Station
💡 Take the 06:35 train (Yal Devi express) for reserved seats; second-class AC is worth the extra rupees and avoids sweat on the 4.5-hour journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Lake View?
Request rooms on the higher floors (3rd floor and above) for a quieter stay. These rooms are less likely to be affected by street noise from the main road.
Which rooms should I avoid at Lake View?
Avoid rooms near the lift (elevator) on lower floors (1st and 2nd) as the noise from the lift can be noticeable.
Is Lake View noisy?
Street noise from the main road can be a consideration, but it's not excessively loud. The hotel's location in Anuradhapura means there may be some background noise from traffic and nearby activity.
Which rooms have the best views at Lake View?
Rooms on the higher floors (3rd floor and above) may offer views of the surrounding area, although the hotel's address in Anuradhapura may not provide a direct lake view.
What are insider tips for staying at Lake View?
When checking in, ask the staff about the best rooms available, as they may be able to accommodate your preferences. If you're planning to visit the nearby historical sites, consider requesting a room with a nearby parking space to make it easier to access your vehicle.
What time is check-in at Lake View?
Check-in at Lake View is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Lake View have Wi-Fi?
Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout; no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Lake View?
Rs. 1,500 per night per person (mandatory)
Where can I eat cheaply near Lake View?
A meal at a local eatery or street food stall costs around 300-400 LKR
What is the cheapest way to get around from Lake View?
The cheapest way to get around is by using the local bus service, which costs around 20-50 LKR for a single journey; a day pass for the bus costs around 200-300 LKR
When is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?
The best time to visit Anuradhapura is between January and March, when the weather is dry and cool, and the crowds are manageable. The temperatures range from 20-25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city's ancient sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Top Attractions in Anuradhapura
💡 Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds. Remove shoes and cover shoulders before entering.
💡 Walk clockwise around the base at sunset for a cool breeze and golden light. Monks here often bless visitors for free.
💡 Best at sunrise or sunset, when fruit bats fly out from trees on the island. Bring binoculars for spotter sightings of cormorants and egrets.
💡 The statue is inside the Abhayagiri monastery complex, which is free to enter. Go on a weekday to have the spot nearly to yourself.
💡 The entry fee is about 200 LKR (under £1). Combine with a walk along the tank bund for free. Arrive before 10am to avoid tour groups.