Urchin Unawatuna, a family-friendly guesthouse, is located in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka, a two-minute walk from Unawatuna Beach and an 18-minute walk from Dalawella Beach, with Galle Fort and the Galle International Cricket Stadium a short drive away. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property boasts a swimming pool, terrace, garden, parking, and free Wi-Fi, offering guests a continental breakfast and 24-hour reception.
9.0 529 reviews
Sri Lanka
05/08 – 07/08
£12/nighttotal: £24 (2 )
Alma Boutique Hostel - Colombo
1 1
hostel , Colombo
Alma Hostel - Colombo is conveniently located near Bambalapitiya Railway Station, within walking distance of the Barefoot Gallery and Independence Square, and 2.4 kilometres from the Sinhalese Sports Club. This pet-friendly guesthouse offers air-conditioned rooms, some with terraces, parking, and a choice of Full English/Irish, American, or Asian breakfast; it also boasts a no-bachelor/bachelorette party policy.
8.9 433 reviews
Sri Lanka
08/07 – 12/07
£10/nighttotal: £40 (4 )
Cozy House Hostel
1 2
hostel , Ella
Cozy House Hostel in Ella is a 4-minute walk from Ella Railway Station, 4.2km from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, and within 48km of Hakgala Botanical Garden and Horton Plains National Park. This single-bedroom guesthouse offers a shared kitchen with fridge and dishwasher, a terrace, garden, parking, and includes a full English/Irish breakfast; bike rentals are available for exploring nearby hiking trails like Little Adam's Peak (2.9km away).
8.6 86 reviews
Sri Lanka
24/08 – 06/09
£12/nighttotal: £156 (13 )
Villa Shady Nook
1 2
hostel , Kandy
Villa Shady Nook, a family-friendly guesthouse in Kandy, enjoys a central location, offering easy access to the Temple of the Tooth Relic (a 9-minute walk), Kandy City Centre Shopping Mall (14-minute walk), and Kandy Museum (8-minute walk). This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guest house provides air conditioning, private parking, and is conveniently situated for exploring Kandy's attractions, including the Bogambara Stadium (1.9km) and the Ceylon Tea Museum (6.6km).
9.5 6 reviews
Sri Lanka
03/08 – 06/08
£11/nighttotal: £33 (3 )
Okan Rock Hostel Ella
1 3
hostel , Ella
Okan Rock Hostel Ella offers accommodation in Ella, situated 1.9 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and a 7-minute walk from Ella Spice Garden Cooking Class, with convenient access to Ella Train Station, which is a 15-minute walk away. This hostel provides rooms with balconies, some offering mountain views, private bathrooms, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, room service, a garden, and a terrace, alongside recreational activities like darts and bike rentals.
9.5 30 reviews
Sri Lanka
16/11 – 11/01
£7/nighttotal: £392 (56 )
Wave Hunters Arugam Bay
1 2
hostel , Arugam Bay
Wave Hunters Arugam Bay offers a prime beachfront position in Arugam Bay, just a few steps from the famous Arugam Bay Beach, 2.9 kilometres from Muhudu Maha Viharaya temple, and 3.1 kilometres from Crocodile Rock. This hostel provides complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, private parking, and a garden, with rooms featuring private bathrooms and a 11:00 AM check-out.
9.8 140 reviews
Sri Lanka
16/11 – 11/01
£21/nighttotal: £1176 (56 )
Pepper Hills Hostel & Cottages
1 2
hostel , Ella
Pepper Hills Ella is a hostel located in Ella, 9.3 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 9.3 kilometres from Ella Rock, offering a tranquil garden setting. This accommodation features a restaurant serving local, Asian, and international cuisine, a bar, shared lounge, shared kitchen, room service, and provides breakfast options, with car rental available for exploring the popular hiking area.
8.8 115 reviews
Sri Lanka
05/08 – 10/08
£40/nighttotal: £200 (5 )
Lovely Lodge & Hostel
2 6
hostel , Sigiriya
This lovely lodge is situated in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, 1.8km from Sigiriya Rock and 4km from Pidurangala Rock, offering convenient access to these iconic landmarks. The guesthouse provides a single bedroom with one bathroom, featuring a terrace, garden, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a continental or full English/Irish breakfast, plus bicycle and car rental services.
9.3 323 reviews
Sri Lanka
12/07 – 14/08
£15/nighttotal: £495 (33 )
Home Hostel Ella Private Rooms Only
1 2
hostel , Ella
HOME HOSTEL ELLA, in Ella, Sri Lanka, is situated an 18-minute walk (approx. 2.9km) from Ella Railway Station and within 4-5km of Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock. This pet-friendly guesthouse offers one bedroom, a garden, shared lounge, free private parking, and paid airport transfers from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (85km away), plus bicycle and car rentals for exploring nearby attractions including the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge (5.3km).
8.7 169 reviews
Sri Lanka
03/08 – 06/08
£13/nighttotal: £39 (3 )
Scoop Cabana Kitesurfing
1 3
hotel , Kalpitiya
Scoop Cabana Kitesurfing is a beachfront hotel in Kalpitiya, located just a few steps from Kudawa Beach and a 1.5 kilometre walk from Kandakuliya Beach. The hotel has received very good user ratings, an excellent location rating, and a very good cleanliness rating. The accommodation is a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit with a floor area of 1 square metre. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a shared kitchen, a restaurant, a garden, a terrace, a spa, and a fitness centre.
9.4 166 reviews
Sri Lanka
28/11 – 11/12
£12/nighttotal: £156 (13 )
C U Hostel
1 2
hostel , Trincomalee
C U Hostel in Trincomalee is located a short walk (approximately 0.6 km) from Uppuveli Beach, and within a few kilometres of Kanniya Hot Springs and Trincomalee Railway Station. This guesthouse offers a single bedroom with one bathroom, accommodating one guest, and features a terrace, garden, parking, and on-site nightclub, plus bike rentals and airport shuttle services.
9.0 328 reviews
Sri Lanka
02/07 – 06/08
£19/nighttotal: £665 (35 )
Chami's Place
1 3
hostel , Hikkaduwa
Chami's Place, a guesthouse in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, is situated 0.3km from the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef and 0.5km from the Hikkaduwa Bus Stand, offering easy access to local attractions and transport links. This one-bedroom guest house boasts a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and terrace with barbecue facilities, alongside free Wi-Fi and private parking, providing a comfortable stay for couples exploring the area.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with breakfast included
Among the 1568 accommodations in Sri Lanka, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included
8.8 62 reviews
Sri Lanka
05/08 – 10/08
£97/nighttotal: £485 (5 )
Srinill Beach Resort
3 6
hostel , Negombo
Srinill Beach Resort in Negombo is located a 9-minute walk from Negombo Beach, 1.77 kilometres from St. Anthony's Church, and 8.05 kilometres from Bandaranaike International Airport. This 4-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms for up to three guests, featuring en-suite bathrooms, complimentary WiFi, a garden, terrace, on-site restaurant, and room service, with a full English/Irish breakfast served daily.
8.8 1118 reviews
Sri Lanka
07/09 – 22/09
£11/nighttotal: £165 (15 )
Clock Inn Dehiwala
1 1
hostel , Mount Lavinia
Clock Inn Dehiwala is situated in Dehiwala, a short walk from Mount Lavinia Beach and close to other popular beaches and attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. Clock Inn Dehiwala offers a shared lounge and garden for guests to relax in. The hostel provides a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, as well as air-conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.
9.0 37 reviews
Sri Lanka
17/08 – 22/08
£43/nighttotal: £215 (5 )
Citrine Belihuloya
1 4
hostel , Belihul Oya
Citrine Belihuloya, a hostel located in Belihuloya, is situated approximately 45 kilometres from Castlereigh Reservoir Seaplane Base Airport. This family-friendly establishment offers a garden, restaurant, room service, and a terrace, with rooms featuring balconies, private bathrooms, free WiFi, and some providing mountain views.
Sri Lanka
01/12 – 19/12
£246/nighttotal: £4428 (18 )
Misty Beach Relax & Escape
2 16
hostel , Negombo
Misty Beach Relax & Escape offers a beachfront hostel experience in Negombo, located just 200 metres from Negombo Beach and 3 kilometres from St Anthony's Church. This family-friendly accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a garden, with select units featuring private bathrooms and a terrace for guests to enjoy.
Top cities
Best Sri Lanka hostels with a locker
10 3 reviews
Sri Lanka
08/08 – 22/08
£25/nighttotal: £350 (14 )
Hiranya Mountain View Hostel Kandy
1 4
hostel , Kandy
Hiranya Mountain View Hostel Kandy, a welcoming guesthouse, is situated on a hillside overlooking the Mahaweli River, offering spectacular terrace views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and is a 20-minute walk or short tuk-tuk ride from Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth. This family-friendly hostel provides 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, with amenities including air conditioning, free WiFi, and parking, whilst being conveniently located 4.3 kilometres from the Ceylon Tea Museum and 5.9 kilometres from the Kandy Royal Botanical Gardens.
8.3 390 reviews
Sri Lanka
05/08 – 10/08
£99/nighttotal: £495 (5 )
Dinuda Lagoon Hotel
2 6
resort , Kalpitiya
Dinuda Lagoon Hotel, a resort in Kalpitiya, is located 1.8 kilometres from Kalpitiya Beach and offers lagoon-side accommodation with excellent location and user ratings. This hotel provides guests with a swimming pool, on-site restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and complimentary parking, with bike and car rentals available for exploring the area popular for cycling.
8.3 1023 reviews
Sri Lanka
01/11 – 15/11
£20/nighttotal: £280 (14 )
Seconds Hostel - Colombo
1 2
hostel , Colombo
Seconds Colombo is located in Colombo, close to Wellawatte and Milagiriya beaches and a short distance from Bambalapitiya Railway Station. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The accommodation offers a shared kitchen, a garden, and a lounge area for guests to relax and socialise. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness centre, and a restaurant and bar, as well as activities like darts and bike and car rentals.
8.9 534 reviews
Sri Lanka
19/12 – 25/12
£24/nighttotal: £144 (6 )
Noname Hostel And Cafe
1 3
hostel , Ella
Noname Hostel And Cafe is situated in Ella, just 2.7 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 50 kilometres from Hakgala Botanical Garden. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience. The hostel offers a single room with a shared kitchen and bathroom, accommodating one guest. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free bikes, a shared lounge, a terrace, a bar, karaoke, and a shared kitchen, as well as modern conveniences like a dishwasher, microwave, and coffee machine.
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's ancient rock fortress offers stunning views for a relatively low entrance fee. Polonnaruwa's ancient city ruins are another affordable historical site. You can also hike Adam's Peak for sunrise (though the climb is strenuous!), and enjoy the free beauty of beaches like Mirissa or Unawatuna.
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. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) sees less traffic.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka?
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the local currency. While some places accept credit cards, it's best to carry Rupees, especially in smaller towns and villages. ATMs are widely available in cities.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Sri Lanka?
Navigating Sri Lanka's roads can be challenging. The road conditions vary greatly, and traffic can be heavy, especially in Colombo. Using a reputable ride-hailing app or hiring a driver is often recommended, especially for longer distances. Public transport, such as buses, is available but can be crowded and slow.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Sri Lanka?
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as temples and shrines. Remove your shoes before entering these places. It's polite to greet people with a nod or 'Ayubowan'. Be mindful of local traditions and customs, and always ask before taking photographs of people. Learn a few basic Sinhala or Tamil phrases – it's greatly appreciated.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka?
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?
Sri Lanka boasts a rich tapestry of festivals. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a major celebration, marked by unique traditions. Poson Poya commemorates the arrival of Buddhism, while Duruthu Poya celebrates the Buddha's first visit. These festivals often involve vibrant processions, traditional foods and dances.
What are the best hostels with parking in Sri Lanka?
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?
For medical emergencies, dial 119. For police assistance, dial 119. It is always advisable to have the contact details of your embassy or consulate in case of emergencies.
What are the best areas to spend a week?
A week allows for a good exploration. Consider a cultural triangle itinerary (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya), followed by beach time in the south (Unawatuna or Mirissa). Alternatively, explore the hill country (Kandy, Ella, Nuwara Eliya) for stunning landscapes and tea plantations.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend?
For a short trip, focus on a specific area. Colombo offers a vibrant city experience. Negombo is great for beach relaxation. A weekend in Kandy allows you to explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic and enjoy the hill country's beauty.
Are there specific regions known for great weather?
The weather in Sri Lanka varies regionally. The hill country generally enjoys pleasant temperatures year-round. The south coast has warm weather, but the monsoon season affects different parts at different times. Checking the forecast before travelling to a specific region is always recommended.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with air conditioning
8.6 89 reviews
Sri Lanka
17/08 – 22/08
£25/nighttotal: £125 (5 )
Buddhi's Grove
1 4
resort , Anuradhapura
Buddhi's Grove, in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, offers convenient access to the railway station (5.5km) and historical sites such as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi (6.4km) and Kuttam Pokuna (6.7km). This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a private terrace, and on-site parking, plus a restaurant serving à la carte, continental, and full English breakfasts.
9.0 1 review
Sri Lanka
02/07 – 06/08
£25/nighttotal: £875 (35 )
Moonshine
1 6
hostel , Galle
Moonshine, a guest house in Galle, is situated near Dadalla West Beach and is approximately 5.1 to 6.3 kilometres from Galle Fort, Galle Lighthouse, and Galle International Cricket Stadium. This pet-friendly and family-friendly accommodation offers free WiFi, free private parking, air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace or balcony, with a check-out time between 09:00 and 11:00.
8.7 105 reviews
Sri Lanka
11/07 – 24/07
£18/nighttotal: £234 (13 )
Blue Sky Guest House And Restaurant
1 4
hostel , Adams Peak
Blue Sky Guest House, a centrally located guesthouse in Nallathanniya, Sri Lanka, offers convenient access to Adam's Peak (a 1.4km walk) and is 30km from Hatton Railway Station and Castlereigh Reservoir Seaplane Base Airport. This pet-friendly lodging boasts a terrace, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a single bedroom with one bathroom, providing a comfortable stay for couples with varied breakfast options including Full English/Irish, American, or Asian choices.
9.2 131 reviews
Sri Lanka
23/11 – 27/11
£27/nighttotal: £108 (4 )
The Wave Rooms & Hostel
1 4
hostel , Arugam Bay
The Wave Arugambay guesthouse is located in Arugam Bay, less than 200 metres from the beach and within 4-7 km of attractions such as Muhudu Maha Viharaya and Crocodile Rock. This air-conditioned property offers one bedroom, one bathroom, and sleeps three guests, boasting a terrace, parking, and pet-friendly accommodation.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with laundry available
9.4 7 reviews
Sri Lanka
02/07 – 06/08
£65/nighttotal: £2275 (35 )
Nethu Villa Apartment
1 6
hostel , Galle
Nethu Villa Apartment in Galle offers excellent accommodation situated within 500 metres of the city centre and a 5-minute walk from Mahamodara Beach, with the Dutch Church Galle 3 kilometres away and Galle International Cricket Stadium 2.7 kilometres distant. This family-friendly apartment provides one bedroom and one bathroom, featuring air conditioning, a balcony, kitchen facilities, and free private parking, making it a convenient base for exploring Galle.
9.1 295 reviews
Sri Lanka
15/09 – 19/09
£18/nighttotal: £72 (4 )
The White House
1 2
hostel , Trincomalee
The White House B&B is located just a short walk from Uppuveli beach in Trincomalee, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre and easy access to nearby attractions like Kanniya Hot Springs and Trincomalee Railway Station. The property enjoys excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall guest experience. The guesthouse features a single bedroom with a bathroom and a floor area of 12 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a garden, terrace, restaurant, room service, free parking, and Wi-Fi.
Sri Lanka
08/07 – 12/07
£15/nighttotal: £60 (4 )
The Treasure - Habarana
1 2
hostel , Habarana
The Treasure - Habarana guesthouse is situated in Habarana, Sri Lanka, 12km from Pidurangala Rock and 12.5km from Sigiriya Rock, offering convenient access to these historical sites and a short 11-minute walk from Kadahatha Wawa Lake. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property provides guests with a range of amenities including a spa, room service, and valet parking, alongside bicycle and car rentals, a garden, barbecue facilities, and an indoor/outdoor play area making it ideal for families.
9.0 52 reviews
Sri Lanka
26/06 – 30/06
£12/nighttotal: £48 (4 )
Hakuna Matata Hostel
1 3
hostel , Sigiriya
Hakuna Matata Hostel in Sigiriya offers convenient access to Sigiriya Rock (2.4km) and Pidurangala Rock (5.5km), alongside Sigiriya Airport (4km). This single-bedroom guesthouse features a 12-square-metre floor area, a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a garden, accommodating one guest; shared bathroom facilities with showers and toiletries are available.
