Hostels in Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka hostels
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2384 Hostels in Sri Lanka

Best Sri Lanka hostels with breakfast included

Among the 2384 accommodations in Sri Lanka, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included

Hostal Tree House - Sri Lanka
8.8 232 reviews

Hostal Tree House

hostel, Ella
Hostal Tree House in Ella, Sri Lanka, is conveniently located 4.5km from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, offering easy access to this iconic landmark and other attractions such as Hakgala Botanical Garden and Horton Plains National Park, both within a reasonable driving distance.
This one-bedroom guesthouse boasts a jacuzzi, sauna, spa, and fitness centre, along with a restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, free parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped stay.
New Mount Villa - Sri Lanka
8.3 4 reviews

New Mount Villa

hostel, Ella
New Mount Villa hostel in Ella is conveniently located an 18-minute walk from Ella Railway Station and within 2-5km of attractions including Ella Spice Garden, Little Adam's Peak, Ella Rock, and the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge.
This family-friendly guesthouse sleeps up to 11 guests in two bedrooms and offers a shared kitchen with fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, plus a swimming pool, terrace, garden, room service, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Elephant Point Tree House - Sri Lanka
9.1 7 reviews

Elephant Point Tree House

hostel, Sigiriya
Elephant Point Tree House offers unique accommodation in Sigiriya, located 5.5 kilometres from Sigiriya Rock and 7.4 kilometres from Pidurangala Rock, with the Wildlife Range Office - Sigiriya 3.5 kilometres away.
This treehouse provides air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and room service for up to three guests, with on-site yoga classes, a garden, and bicycle rentals available for exploring the area.
Tropical Garden - Sri Lanka
8.0 185 reviews

Tropical Garden

hostel, Negombo
Tropical Garden is a bed and breakfast situated just 1.4 kilometres from Negombo Beach and 1.6 kilometres from Wellaweediya Beach, offering easy access to the coast. This family-friendly accommodation has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
Each room in this guesthouse has a floor area of 13 square metres and features comfortable seating areas. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, garden, spa, fitness centre, room service, free Wi-Fi and a delicious Asian breakfast.

Top cities

Best Sri Lanka hostels with a locker

Happy Hammocks, Arugam Bay Beach - Sri Lanka - Sri Lanka
9.4 252 reviews

Happy Hammocks, Arugam Bay Beach - Sri Lanka

hostel, Arugam Bay
Happy Hammocks, Arugam Bay Beach - Sri Lanka offers a hostel stay just a 2-minute walk from Arugam Bay Beach, with Pottuvils Lagoon Safari 5.2 kilometres and Elephant Rock 8.2 kilometres away.
This air-conditioned accommodation provides 19 square metres of floor area, a shared kitchen, free WiFi, a garden, and on-site table tennis for up to one guest.
Barefoot Inn Kandy - Sri Lanka
9.1 370 reviews

Barefoot Inn Kandy

hostel, Kandy
The Barefoot Inn Kandy is conveniently located in Kandy, a short distance from the city centre and within walking distance of cultural landmarks like the Sri Dalada Maligawa and the Kandy Museum. The hostel has received excellent user ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
Each room in the inn is 26 square metres and can comfortably accommodate two guests. The hostel offers a range of amenities including air conditioning, a private bathroom, a shared kitchen, a garden, and a terrace, providing guests with both comfort and social opportunities.
Monkey Hostel - Sri Lanka
No reviews

Monkey Hostel

hostel, Anuradhapura
Monkey Hostel in Anuradhapura offers a family-friendly stay, located 1.2 km from Kada Panaha Tank and 1.6 km from Kumbichchan Kulama Tank, with Anuradhapura Railway Station 2.5 km away.
This accommodation provides a terrace, outdoor fireplace, shared kitchen, in-house yoga classes, bike and car hire, and outdoor play equipment, with an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine for dinner.
Early Birds - Sri Lanka
8.6 117 reviews

Early Birds

hostel, Arugam Bay
Early Birds, a guesthouse in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, is located a short walk from Pasarichenai and Arugam Bay beaches, and within 4.5km of Crocodile Rock.
This single-bedroom, single-bathroom property offers air conditioning, a terrace, a garden, a bar, free Wi-Fi, and a daily breakfast with various options; nearby attractions include Muhudu Maha Viharaya (4.6km) and Magul Maha Viharaya (19km).

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Sri Lanka

  • What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

    For budget travellers, exploring the cultural triangle is a must. Sigiriya Rock Fortress offers stunning views for a relatively low entrance fee. Polonnaruwa's ancient city ruins are also inexpensive to explore. You can find numerous free or low-cost activities, such as hiking Adam's Peak (though the climb itself is challenging), visiting local temples, and exploring beaches like Unawatuna or Mirissa. Remember to factor in transport costs, which can be kept low using local buses.
  • What are the best hostels in Sri Lanka?

    Among the hostels in Sri Lanka, Hangover Hostels Ella, Jj's Hostel Mirissa and Colombo Beach Hostel are the most popular ones.

  • Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?

    Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo handles the vast majority of international flights. There are smaller airports, like Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), but CMB remains the primary gateway.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka?

    Jj's Hostel Mirissa, Colombo Beach Hostel and Tuk Tuk Hostel Negombo are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka.

  • What currency is needed?

    The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency. It's advisable to exchange currency at banks or licensed money exchangers for the best rates. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's best to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns and villages.
  • What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Sri Lanka?

    The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Sri Lanka are Nalin And Song Hostel (Sigiriya Hostel), 2in1 Kandy Hostel and Barefoot Inn Kandy.

  • How easy is it to navigate the roads?

    Navigating the roads can be challenging. Road conditions vary considerably, with some areas well-maintained and others less so. Driving yourself can be stressful due to traffic and varying driving styles. Public transport, such as buses, is readily available and affordable, offering a more relaxed way to travel, but journeys can be slow. Hiring a driver is another option for a more comfortable, albeit more expensive, journey.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in Sri Lanka?

    The best hostels for families and kids in Sri Lanka are Hangover Hostels Ella, Clock Inn Dehiwala and Araliya Lagoon Park Resort.

  • How can travellers best respect local customs?

    Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes. Seek permission before taking photographs of people. Be mindful of local traditions and customs, and always show respect to elders. Learning a few basic Sinhala or Tamil phrases will be appreciated.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka?

    The best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka are Hangover Hostels Mirissa, Laughing Leopard Hostel and Seconds Hostel - Colombo.

  • Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?

    Duruthu Perahera, a grand procession in Kandy celebrating the Buddha's tooth relic, is a highlight. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a vibrant celebration with unique customs and traditions. Poson Poya, commemorating the arrival of Buddhism, is another significant religious festival. These festivals offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the nation.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in Sri Lanka?

    Hangover Hostels Ella, Jj's Hostel Mirissa and Colombo Beach Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Sri Lanka.

  • What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?

    Dial 119 for ambulance services and 118 for police. For medical emergencies, it's best to seek assistance from your hotel or a local hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
  • What are the best areas to spend a week?

    A week allows for a good exploration. Consider a combination of the cultural triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya), a visit to Kandy and its temple of the tooth, and some time relaxing on the beaches of the south coast (Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama). This itinerary balances culture and relaxation.
  • What are the best areas to spend a weekend?

    For a weekend, focus on a specific area. Colombo offers a vibrant city experience with diverse food and cultural attractions. Alternatively, a relaxing weekend could be spent exploring the beaches of Bentota or Negombo, enjoying watersports and the coastline.

Best Sri Lanka hostels with air conditioning

Sigiri Serenity Hostel - Sri Lanka
9.7 211 reviews

Sigiri Serenity Hostel

hostel, Sigiriya
Sigiri Serenity Hostel in Sigiriya offers convenient access to Sigiriya Rock (2.1km) and Pidurangala Rock (5.3km), ideal for exploring these iconic Sri Lankan landmarks.
This single-bedroom guesthouse features a 29 square metre floor area, air conditioning, a garden, terrace, parking, and Wi-Fi, accommodating one guest and offering a continental, Asian, or vegetarian breakfast.
Ceylon Stayz - Sri Lanka
9.0 1257 reviews

Ceylon Stayz

hostel, Colombo
Ceylon Stayz is a well-rated hostel in Colombo, offering a convenient location close to the city's main attractions. It has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel features a single bedroom and bathroom, suitable for one guest. It provides essential amenities like air conditioning, parking, and internet access, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Promax Villa - Sri Lanka
8.9 313 reviews

Promax Villa

hostel, Nuwara Eliya
PROMAX Villa is located in Nuwara Eliya, just 2.6 km from Gregory Lake and 9.4 km from Hakgala Botanical Garden, offering a peaceful retreat in the scenic hill country. The hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, along with a very good location rating.
The accommodation features a shared lounge, making it a great place to socialise with fellow travellers, and offers amenities like air conditioning, room service, and free parking. Guests can also enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and dishwasher, as well as free internet access throughout the property.
Casa De Peiro - Sri Lanka
10 3 reviews

Casa De Peiro

hostel, Arugam Bay
Casa De Peiro, a hostel in Arugam Bay, is located 549 metres from Arugam Bay Beach and 2.6 kilometres from Crocodile Rock, with Muhudu Maha Viharaya 4.2 kilometres away.
This accommodation offers a garden, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, and is a 28-kilometre drive from Kumana National Park.

Best Sri Lanka hostels with laundry available

Haven Ceylon - Sri Lanka
10 2 reviews

Haven Ceylon

hostel, Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Haven Ceylon, a guesthouse in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, is located approximately 33.8 kilometres from Bandaranaike International Airport and offers a garden and terrace with views.
This family-friendly accommodation provides air conditioning, a kitchenette, private parking with an electric vehicle charging station, and a tour desk, with check-out available between 08:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
Breeze Hostel Unawatuna - Sri Lanka
9.4 5 reviews

Breeze Hostel Unawatuna

hostel, Galle
Breeze Budget Unawatuna, a budget guesthouse in Galle, is located a 12-minute walk from Unawatuna Beach, 2.9 kilometres from the Japanese Peace Pagoda, and within 5.5 kilometres of Galle International Cricket Stadium and Galle Fort.
This family-friendly accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms with a fridge and shared bathroom facilities, a garden, shared lounge, and a shared kitchen, with free private parking available.
Noahs Ark Transit Stay - Sri Lanka
8.1 156 reviews

Noahs Ark Transit Stay

hostel, Moratuwa
Noah's Ark Home Stay is a pet-friendly guesthouse in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, located 12.2 kilometres from Bambalapitiya Railway Station and 17.7 kilometres from the Khan Clock Tower, offering easy access to local snorkeling spots.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace, a fitness centre, parking, and serves daily breakfast, with airport transfers arranged on request.
Delft Village Stay - Experience Based Local Island Stay In Jaffna - Sri Lanka
9.7 375 reviews

Delft Village Stay - Experience Based Local Island Stay In Jaffna

hostel, Delft East
Delft Village Stay is a beachfront guesthouse located in Delft East, just 60 kilometres from Jaffna International Airport. This charming guesthouse has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The guesthouse offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy the sun on the terrace, and take advantage of the on-site restaurant and mini-market. The guesthouse also provides a swimming pool, a children's playground, and an outdoor fireplace for evenings spent under the stars.
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