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

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

Kentz Villa - Sri Lanka
10 5 reviews

Kentz Villa

hostel, Arugam Bay
Kentz Villa, a 3-star hotel in Arugam Bay, is located approximately 1.6 kilometres from Crocodile Rock and 4.3 kilometres from Muhudu Maha Viharaya.
This family-friendly accommodation offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and can host up to 5 guests, with amenities including air conditioning, free WiFi, a garden, a hot tub, on-site restaurant, room service, and free private parking.
Noahs Ark Transit Stay - Sri Lanka
8.1 151 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.
Citrine Belihuloya - Sri Lanka
9.2 41 reviews

Citrine Belihuloya

hostel, Belihuloya
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.
Hostal Tree House - Sri Lanka
8.7 221 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.

Top cities

Best Sri Lanka hostels with a locker

Vibe Colombo - Sri Lanka
8.7 312 reviews

Vibe Colombo

hostel, Colombo
Vibe Hostels in Colombo is located just a couple of miles from Milagiriya Beach and Bambalapitiya Railway Station, making it a convenient base for exploring the city's beaches and attractions. It benefits from very good user, location and cleanliness ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hostel offers a range of shared rooms and private rooms, all featuring comfortable seating areas, private bathrooms with bidets, and some with balconies offering city views. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a well-equipped kitchen, a garden, a terrace, a bar, and parking facilities.
Moonlight Surf Hostel - Sri Lanka
8.6 76 reviews

Moonlight Surf Hostel

hostel, Arugam Bay
Moonlight Surf Hostel in Arugam Bay is located near Arugam Bay Beach, 3.6km from Muhudu Maha Viharaya temple, and within easy reach of Crocodile Rock (4.8km), Lagoon Safari (5.3km), and Elephant Rock (7.9km).
This pet-friendly guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a communal kitchen with microwave and dishwasher, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, parking, Wi-Fi, and evening entertainment.
Aaa Happy Hostel - Sri Lanka
9.6 20 reviews

Aaa Happy Hostel

hostel, Arugam Bay
Aaa Hostel, a budget-friendly guesthouse in Arugam Bay, offers prime beachfront proximity, just a 1-minute walk to Arugam Bay Beach, and convenient access to Crocodile Rock (2.7 kilometres) and Muhudu Maha Viharaya (3.2 kilometres).
This accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms with a fridge, microwave, and safety deposit box, alongside a shared kitchen, garden, restaurant, and complimentary WiFi and bicycles for guests.
Hello Aliya Hostel - Sri Lanka
9.0 204 reviews

Hello Aliya Hostel

hostel, Sigiriya
Hello Aliya Hostel in Sigiriya offers budget accommodation a 13-minute walk from Sigiriya Rock and 2.6 km from Pidurangala Rock, also close to the Sigiriya Museum.
This 144-square-metre guesthouse features one bedroom, one bathroom, and sleeps one guest; amenities include a private bathroom with toiletries, a safety deposit box, and a garden view, plus a la carte breakfast options.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Sri Lanka

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

    Backpackers can find plenty of budget-friendly options. Exploring the cultural triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya) offers incredible ancient ruins at relatively low entry fees. Hiking Adam's Peak is a challenging but rewarding experience, costing only the transport and food. Beaches like Unawatuna or Mirissa offer free relaxation, with affordable local eateries nearby. Traveling by bus is significantly cheaper than taxis or private cars.
  • What are the best hostels in Sri Lanka?

    Among the hostels in Sri Lanka, A4 Residence Colombo Airport - Hostel, Hangover Hostels Ella and Downtown Hostels Ella 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. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota sees less traffic.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka?

    A4 Residence Colombo Airport - Hostel, Colombo Beach Hostel and Jj's Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka.

  • What currency is needed?

    The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the currency used. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash, 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 and The Mist Holiday Bungalow.

  • How easy is it to navigate the roads?

    Navigating roads can be challenging. Road conditions vary significantly, with some areas having well-maintained highways and others with poorly maintained roads. Driving yourself requires confidence and awareness. Public buses are a common and affordable mode of transport, but they can be crowded. Hiring a driver is a more comfortable option, though more expensive.
  • 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, C1 Colombo Fort - Hostel and Shady Transit Hotel.

  • How can travelers best respect local customs?

    Modest dressing, especially when visiting religious sites, is appreciated. Removing your shoes before entering temples and homes is customary. Seeking permission before taking photos of people is polite. Being mindful of local traditions and showing respect for Buddhist practices will enhance your experience.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka?

    The best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka are A4 Residence Colombo Airport - Hostel, Hangover Hostels At Mirissa and Gregory House.

  • Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?

    Duruthu Perahera (January/February) in Kandy is a spectacular procession celebrating the arrival of Buddhism. Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April) is a vibrant celebration marking the beginning of the new year according to both Sinhalese and Tamil calendars. Poson Poya (June) commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. These are just a few of the many festivals celebrated throughout the year.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in Sri Lanka?

    A4 Residence Colombo Airport - Hostel, Hangover Hostels Ella and Downtown Hostels Ella 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 118. It's recommended to have the contact information for your embassy or consulate readily available.
  • What are the best areas to spend a week?

    A week allows for a good exploration. A possible itinerary could include Colombo for city life, the cultural triangle for ancient history, Kandy for its hill country charm, and Ella for stunning views and tea plantations. Alternatively, focus on the beaches and coastal areas of the south or east coast.
  • What are the best areas to spend a weekend?

    For a weekend, consider focusing on a specific region. Colombo offers a vibrant city experience with colonial architecture and bustling markets. Alternatively, Negombo beach offers a relaxing coastal getaway close to the airport. Kandy provides a cultural immersion in the hill country.

Best Sri Lanka hostels with air conditioning

Early Birds - Sri Lanka
8.5 103 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).
Waypoint Arugam Bay - Sri Lanka
8.5 431 reviews

Waypoint Arugam Bay

hostel, Arugam Bay
Waypoint Arugam Bay is located just a few steps from Arugam Bay Beach and a 1.4 kilometre walk from Pasarichenai Beach, offering easy access to both the lively main beach and a quieter alternative. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for cleanliness, user experience and location.
The hostel has a garden, shared lounge and terrace, perfect for relaxing and socialising. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the restaurant and bar, and benefit from a concierge service, 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi throughout the property and parking.
Benzai Surf - Sri Lanka
8.3 103 reviews

Benzai Surf

hostel, Arugam Bay
Benzai Surf, a hostel in Arugam Bay, offers a prime beachfront location with direct access to Arugam Bay Beach and is situated 3.7 kilometres from the Muhudu Maha Viharaya landmark.
This accommodation provides guests with air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, sea and garden views, and on-site bicycle and car rental, along with continental, American, fruit, and cheese breakfast options.
C 1 Colombo Fort - Sri Lanka
8.2 7078 reviews

C 1 Colombo Fort

hostel, Colombo
C 1 Colombo Fort is a 3-star hotel located in Colombo Fort, a short walk from Galle Face Beach and Khan Clock Tower, making it a great base for exploring the city's attractions. The hotel consistently receives very good user ratings, indicating a positive experience for guests.
This accommodation offers comfortable rooms with a shared lounge for relaxation. Guests can enjoy amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a terrace or balcony, and a garden, as well as access to a restaurant and room service.

Best Sri Lanka hostels with laundry available

Green Herbal Ayurvedic Eco-lodge - Sri Lanka
8.9 143 reviews

Green Herbal Ayurvedic Eco-lodge

hostel, Galle
Green Herbal Ayurvedic Eco-lodge in Galle is peacefully located approximately 7.2 to 8 kilometres from Galle Fort, Galle International Cricket Stadium, the Dutch Church, and Galle Lighthouse.
This family-friendly eco-lodge offers Ayurvedic treatments, a shared kitchen, room service, free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, a spa, and an airport shuttle service to Koggala Airport (9 kilometres).
Nethu Villa Apartment - Sri Lanka
9.4 7 reviews

Nethu Villa Apartment

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.
Hitchhike Backpackers - Sri Lanka
8.2 122 reviews

Hitchhike Backpackers

hostel, Mount Lavinia
Hitchhike Backpackers is located in Mount Lavinia, just 400 metres from the Mount Lavinia Bus Station, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The hostel has received excellent reviews for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. There's also a terrace and snack bar where you can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, as well as a shared lounge area for socialising with other travellers.
Cozy House Hostel - Sri Lanka
8.9 439 reviews

Cozy House Hostel

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).
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