Anuradhapura finally has a hotel in which it can take pride. The Palm Garden Village, rated as a three-star, but with particularly stylish public areas, is conveniently situated within 5 kms of the ruined city of Anuradhapura, capital of the Sinhala kingdom for 14 centuries. It also has excellent credentials as a wildlife hotel, having been instrumental in the reopening of Wilpattu game park in 2003, which lies only 40 minutes away and which hides Sri Lanka’s largest collection of leopards.

The Palm Garden Village has the air of a colonial club, but one with a relaxed and enlightened air. It was built in traditional colonial style in the late 1990s and stands in a large park, with villas immersed in the greenery. This botanical garden is well stocked with flowers, spices and fruit and occasional elephants, buffaloes and deer wander out of the forest to drink at the adjacent lake, which was renovated by the hotel. Palm Garden’s profusion of birdlife also holds particular appeal for ornithologists. The hotel was planning to offer good-quality camping in Wilpattu in 2006.

About 20 villas have between two to four rooms, all possessing private verandah. Bedrooms are spacious with a/c, writing desk, IDD phone (no direct dial), tv, minibar and attached bathroom with shower. The largest swimming pool in the cultural triangle has a largearea of 1m depth, making it perfect for young children. There is a conference hall, snooker room, Ayurvedic health centre, tennis courts, gymnasium, shops, jungle treks. The hotel will suit independent travellers looking for a smaller, more personal base. But it is not a hotel for committed foodies – the restaurant can have a limited menu in off-season; a pizzeria is also available on request.