Introduction
Palm Garden Village has the air of a colonial club, but one with a relaxed air. It was built in traditional colonial style in the late 1990s and stands in a large 50 acre property, 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.
Accommodation
There are 10 airconditioned spacious suites and 40 double rooms located in separate one bedroom and two bedroomed chalets with private verandahs. The well furnished bedrooms also have IDD phone, satellite TV, mini-bar and attached bathroom with h/w shower. The Suites consists of a four poster canopied beds and sitting area.
Facilities
Palm Garden Village has the largest swimming pool in the cultural triangle with a large area of 1m depth, making it perfect for young children. There is a conference hall, snooker room, tennis courts, gymnasium, and shops. Relax at the Ayurvedic wellness centre and Spa with an open air Jacuzzi. A range of relaxing therapies is on offer using natural Ayurvedic medicinal herbs and oils. 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. The bar serves a range of beverages including cocktails. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the extensive gardens filled with fruit and medicinal trees that attract numerous species of birds and the adjacent lake frequented by animals including the occasional elephant.
Why We Like It
Large gardens make this a property of some potential and it is valued for its convenient location en route to Anuradhapura.
Location
The Palm Garden Village Hotel, rated as a three-star, but with stylish public areas, is conveniently situated within 8 kms of the ruined city of Anuradhapura, capital of the Sinhala kingdom for 14 centuries. Anuradhapura is just over 100 miles north of Colombo, a journey of slightly more than four hours. Wilpattu game park is also a comfortable drive away.
Location: Anuradhapura, Cultural Triangle
Style: Best Budget Hotel
No. of Rooms: 50
Key Features: Wildlife; lakeside setting; large gardens