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Colombo, sri-lanka

Colombo

sri-lanka

About Colombo

Swanky sky-high hotels and colonial-era architecture stand side by side in Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo. The port city is steeped in culture and has up-and-coming pockets of nightlife and chilled out cafés. Take in the Dutch colonial-style buildings near Colombo Fort before wandering among the skyscrapers and parks of Galle Face Green. You can taste the local street-food flavours at one of the many markets, with specialities including milk rice and curry. 

When it comes to hostels in Colombo, there’s a diverse mix on offer. Stay just outside of the city in a spot that overlooks a serene beach, or one with environmentally-friendly up-cycled bunks. Look out for a Colombo hostel that will introduce you to the city with pub crawls or leisurely walking tours. Nightly entertainment such as live music makes it easy to socialise. Most Colombo hostels offer free Wi-Fi, and many will give you a free breakfast too.

The area around Park Street is a great place to explore temples by day and party by night. Slave Island is all about peace and quiet – a visit here lets you take time out to relax on the shores of Beira Lake. The city's best-known neighbourhood is Cinnamon Gardens. It was once the site of a cinnamon plantation, but is now known for its boutique hostels and cafés. 

You can catch a breeze at Mount Lavinia Beach, a sandy stretch lined with seafood restaurants. For a culture fix, there's the Colombo National Art Gallery, which houses three wings of works by local artists. Gangaramaya Vihara is a must-see: a mix of Buddhist temple and eclectic museum, it offers lots of photo ops. To get a feel for local life, stop by the Pettah Bazaar. This colourful market is richly scented with spices and is an ideal spot for trying local delicacies, picking up trinkets or simply people-watching.

When you arrive into Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll find taxis at the front of the terminal. You could also take the E3 or 187 bus, which goes to the central Colombo Fort Station. Buses run every 30 minutes and the journey takes about an hour. Inter-city trains also run in and out of Colombo Fort Station regularly. To get around the city, taxis and tuk-tuks are the easiest option, though there are bus routes too.

City Info

Countrysri-lanka
Hostels12
Country CodeSR

12 Hostels in Colombo

Clock Inn Dehiwala
Clock Inn Dehiwala

Located in Colombo

9.2 (192 reviews)

Strategically located in Dehiwala, Clock Inn Dehiwala is closer to the Mount Lavinia beaches and night life.

From Rs905.95
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Drop Inn Hostels
Drop Inn Hostels

Located in Colombo

9.1 (343 reviews)

Drop Inn Hostels located in Colombo.

From Rs883.85
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Ceylon StayZ
Ceylon StayZ

Located in Colombo

9 (247 reviews)

Around 1.8 km from Kollupitiya Beach, Ceylon StayZ welcomes your stay with us.

From Rs1325.78
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Backpack Lanka-Central Colombo
Backpack Lanka-Central Colombo

Located in Colombo

9 (78 reviews)

We offer 20 dorm styled bunk beds on a mixed basis and 3 bunk beds on a strictly girls only floor. Our rates are incredibly competitive for what is offered.

From Rs901.53
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Colombo Beach Hostel
Colombo Beach Hostel

Located in Colombo

8.9 (1359 reviews)

Hey Guys, we are back!! Yes, it was a struggle, but that was common to all of us, revamped and revitalized, we are here to make sure your stay in Colombo is a good one.

From Rs1312.52
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Seconds Colombo
Seconds Colombo

Located in Colombo

8.8 (97 reviews)

Around 2.7 km from Wellawatte Beach, Seconds Colombo welcomes your stay with us.

From Rs945.72
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C1 Colombo Fort
C1 Colombo Fort

Located in Colombo

8.8 (470 reviews)

Located 2.6 km from American Embassy in Colombo, C 1 Colombo Fort features free WiFi access and free private parking.

From Rs1473.38
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Hitchhike Backpackers
Hitchhike Backpackers

Located in Colombo

8.7 (105 reviews)

Located a short walk from the beach, Hitchhike is the perfect start for your travels in Sri Lanka. As a new hostel we have clean, comfortable and secure rooms delivered at excellent value for money.

From Rs707.08
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Stay Lost & Found Colombo
Stay Lost & Found Colombo

Located in Colombo

8.2 (30 reviews)

Set in central Colombo, Stay Lost & Found Colombo is 1.2 km from Galle Face Beach.

From Rs883.85
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CityRest - Fort
CityRest - Fort

Located in Colombo

7.9 (469 reviews)

The CityRest- Fort has 18 rooms which is converted to Dorms and Private rooms. Each room is fitted with the best faciities such as persoanl reading lights, Air Conditioning in each room, Ceiling Fan and Individual lockers.

From Rs707.08
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Clock Inn Colombo
Clock Inn Colombo

Located in Colombo

6.9 (451 reviews)

Best Hostel 2013. The Inn is evidently famous for being in the City Centre, and 1minute walk away from the scenic road- Marine Drive.

From Rs800.77
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Havelock City Hostel Colombo
Havelock City Hostel Colombo

Located in Colombo

N/A

Located just a short distance from popular attractions like Havelock City Mall and Arcade Independence Square, the hostel provides modern amenities, a safe environment, and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

From Rs600.36
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Backpacking in Colombo

Colombo is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Colombo, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.

Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Colombo has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Colombo offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.

When visiting Colombo, don't miss the opportunity to:

  • Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
  • Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
  • Connect with other travelers at hostel events
  • Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Colombo