The 34 best hostels in Colombo

After Colombo city visit,we went to the hotel ClockInn in Dehiwala in the evening. We had booked 3 rooms in advance. We were all dissatisfied with the room allocation. So we decided to go to another hotel. At that time Mr. Nino de Anitas who was working at the reception area, called us and pacified us and allocated the room as we wanted. We were very much satisfied by his actions. Mr. Nerish and Mr. Sadhu, who were in the dining room, served us breakfast with great joy and love. Our heartfelt thanks to them. Overall, a good hotel with clean rooms in the center of town with a good environment, with sincere and respectful staffs , we are highly recommended this hotel to stay with family. Once again thanks to Mr. Nerish, Sadhu, Nino de Anitas . Thanks also to the hotel management who has good staffs…

I had a good stay at Clock Inn Dehiwala. The atmosphere is pleasant and suitable for both short stays and backpackers, especially with their convenient hostel-style accommodation. One thing that really stood out was the staff—most of them are young boys from upcountry. They were very friendly, respectful, and helpful throughout my stay. You can tell they are hardworking and genuinely care about guest satisfaction. However, I also noticed that some of them feel their salaries may not be sufficient for the amount of work they do. I hope the management recognizes their efforts and supports them fairly—they truly are the backbone of the hotel. Overall, I recommend this place for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay.

We stayed there recently and had a wonderful experience. The staff were very friendly and helped us a lot during our stay. The highlight was definitely the breakfast — it was fantastic! Even though the spread was limited, we really enjoyed it, and it was worth the price. The room was clean and comfortable. We also want to mention Danu at the front desk, who was especially kind and friendly. Thank you for the great hospitality — hope to see you again! 🤗

I stayed at Clock Inn, Dehiwala and was highly satisfied with their excellent service. The hotel offers fair prices, delicious food, great cleanliness and a well-organized, well-maintained environment. The staff are friendly, disciplined and always ready to help. A special mention goes to Nerish, who is an exceptionally gentle, polite and helpful person. Thanks to him and the entire team, we enjoyed the best service we’ve experienced in a long time. This is truly a great place for a hassle-free, calm and comfortable stay in Colombo at a very fair price.Thank you very much, Nerish and team!

"I had a fantastic stay at the hotel in Colombo! The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The place might be small, but it has a beautiful indoor garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city. The rooms were clean and spacious, providing a comfortable environment. I also enjoyed the simple but delicious breakfast each morning. Highly recommend this place for a relaxing stay!"

Wonderful place! Well maintained with spacious rooms that feel airy and comfortable. The outdoor bathrooms are a unique and amazing touch. The staff are incredibly friendly, professional, and always welcoming and helpful. Truly a memorable stay!

Clock Inn Dahiwala is an excellent option for travelers. The staff members are exceptionally friendly and accommodating. They offer complimentary tea and coffee, which is a significant benefit alongside the rooms. The breakfast provided is of high quality. The premises are well-maintained and clean. This establishment comes highly recommended. I would love to visit again!

This was my first time ever staying in a hostel — I’m not usually a hostel person, but I wanted to try something different. I arrived around 3pm and had to wait quite a while before I could check in. The female dorm had about seven beds, and while the setup was okay, I didn’t feel comfortable sharing with strangers and locking away all my belongings. The common areas were decent but not especially inviting — most people kept to themselves, and there was a lot of smoking. The hostel also offers a nightly meal service for 1,500 rupees, which was a nice idea and the food was good, but no one mentioned when it was ready, so by the time I got some, it was cold. Later in the evening, I realised I couldn’t stay in the dorm. The bathrooms were basic and not well kept, and the atmosphere didn’t feel right. I asked if I could upgrade to a private room (which was available online), but was told I’d need to pay the full rate instead of just paying the difference. That didn’t make sense to me, and the room ended up going unused. On the positive side, one of the staff members was very kind and tried to help me arrange bus transport for the next day. But overall, this hostel just wasn’t for me, and I checked into a hotel instead.

Absolutely wonderful stay! The location of the hostel is simply amazing. We had a room with a private bathroom, which was perfectly clean and comfortable. Everyone was so friendly, smiling, and incredibly helpful. I especially want to highlight the lovely girl who arranged our transfer from the airport immediately after we landed — everything went so smoothly! The driver was very kind and accommodating; he even stopped at an ATM so we could withdraw some cash and took us to the hostel with a big smile. The place itself feels like a peaceful oasis — you wouldn’t believe you’re close to the center because it’s surrounded by a beautiful garden, so quiet and relaxing. The breakfast was excellent, the street is calm and safe, and everything about our stay was truly exceptional. I highly recommend this hostel, and when I fly back, I will definitely stay here again!

The hostel would have been okay, if it weren't for the fact we had bedbugs in our dorm. At least 3 out of 6 beds had them including mine. I told the staff and they changed the bed curtains where I found them, but really, they need to deep clean the whole room and mattresses. The hostel itself seemed nice, it's basic, but for the price, what I expected. The staff seemed nice.

Beautiful hostel! Super chill in a great location. Social host V is a total legend! The food was AMAZING! Clean and well looked after facilities! The cafe area is the perfect place to spend time and meet other travellers. Would absolutely recommend and I will be back next visit to Colombo. Also super cheap!!!

⸻ Witnessing the sunset at Chakrapani Boutique Hotel was truly a magical experience. It was, without a doubt, the most beautiful sunset I’ve ever seen. The colors painted across the sky brought a serene calm to my heart and mind, transporting me to another world. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and I wholeheartedly invite you to come and witness this breathtaking moment yourself. This is something you should experience at least once in your lifetime.

One of my best stays in Sri Lanka... Lovely service. There was always someone to help or solve any issue. Amazing vibe. Special shout out to V, who makes the evenings more enjoyable.

I stayed in Drop Inn Columbo from 1 July to 6 July 2022 in a double bedroom with my son. The hotel is a house and old house converted into a hotel. The room on the right had a sloping floor. The fixtures in the bathroom were old but somewhat functional. The hotel neither had a restaurant or a facility for basic cooking. The AC was ok. The behaviour of the owner left a lot to be desired. I used make part payments and on the last day when I wanted to go out to get Srilankan rupees from the nearby ATM leaving my luggage and my son in the hotel, the hotel owner sitting in the reception lifted his legs on the reception table and in a crossed legged pose demanded that I handover my passport. Such demeaning behaviour towards an Indian who was senior to him by at least 20 years was the most horrible experience of my life. This happened when Srilanka was in turmoil and was getting help from Indian. This owner was an educated person who claimed to have studied a degree in Malaysia but showed disrespect to his customer.

Expensive compared to the room quality. Place looks old and the washrooms stink. But this is a good place for a get-together as they are okay with having drinks inside or outside with visitors. Convenient place but parking is on ur own risk. The rooms are boring soundproof so can hear the buzzling noices of the street in the morning.

5-Star Review for Clock Inn Hotel Colombo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our recent stay at Clock Inn Hotel in Colombo was nothing short of a breath of fresh air amidst our extensive travels. After facing numerous challenges and disappointments elsewhere, this hotel stood out as a beacon of warmth and hospitality. From the moment we arrived, the staff treated us with genuine dignity and respect, making us feel right at home. The customer care was exceptional, with effective communication that made our stay seamless. Our room was impeccably clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable sanctuary after long days of exploring. The value for money is remarkable, and I highly recommend the hotel management consider installing a lift. This addition would greatly enhance accessibility for senior citizens and those who may struggle with stairs. Thank you, Clock Inn Hotel, for your outstanding service and for reminding us that there are still places that prioritize the well-being of their guests. I sincerely hope you continue to uphold these wonderful values in the future. We look forward to returning! A special thanks to Agoda.com for being a reliable booking platform that made our stay possible!

Stayed here last nigh——absolute disaster from start to finish. NO CAR PARK!! NO SECURITY!! Had to leave my car on the street and woke up to find my mirrors stolen. Staff couldn’t care less, just said they’re not liable. Place is filthy rooms and bathrooms are disgusting, stink like they haven’t been cleaned in years. Sheets felt dirty, walls falling apart, everything’s old, run-down and creepy as. Photos online are a total scam compared to the real thing. Honestly the worst place I’ve stayed in Sri Lanka. Waste of money, waste of time stay well away!!!

DO NOT STAY HERE – Worst hotel I’ve ever come across. I booked this place for 5 days, but the moment I walked in, it felt like stepping into an abandoned, creepy building. The outside might look okay, but inside it’s a total disaster—dirty, dark, and depressing. The staff were completely unhelpful. No support, no flexibility, no care at all. I left my luggage for just two hours and decided not to stay because the place was that bad. I asked if I could get even part of my money back, and they just brushed it off like they didn’t care. Refused to do anything. This hotel is a scam in Colombo. Not clean, not comfortable, and absolutely not worth the money. You’ve been warned—stay away.

Location is very near to the city centre. Rooms are great and comfortable. No elevator but staffs are helpful to carry your luggage during check in and out. A moderate english breakfast is provided as complimentary. A good collection of clocks is on display to match the hotel name. It is a mix of family rooms, couple room and dormitory. Only street parking is available

This hotel is a security nightmare. The parking they told me to use had no cameras, no guard, nothing. My vehicle was damaged overnight and management didn’t care at all. On top of that, the rooms were filthy stained sheets, dirty floors, and a bad smell. If you value your car, your safety, or even basic cleanliness, stay far away from this place!

I stayed only for one night and for few hours next day. 1. Location - Its right on the Main Road I checked in at night 11.30 p.m. from airport after my arrival in Colombo. So I felt little scary while entering the building as the lights were switched off 2. Staff - They are very good, polite & supportive 3. Room - I booked a double bed which was clean & tidy, there was Hot water, Sealed drinking water & it was safe, with AC, 4. Breakfast - It was light breakfast with healthy options. Drawback - There is no LIFT (but they helped me with transferring my Big Trollies) This review is based on my personal experience.

I stay here with my wife for one night. Room was clean except pillow and bed cover. There are many Bedbugs around my bed we can’t sleep well whole day and night. Around 01 am i change my room for very bad situation for Bedbugs. But next room waa ok, no problem there. They proposed free breakfast, it was very tasty and fresh ( Banana, water million, bread with jelly and butter, salade, cocomber, tomatoo, jusg, tea, coffe, hot chocklet, water etc). Everything was nice except Bedbugs. I request hostel authority please solve this issue. ❤️💐

The placement of the hotel might anyone think, at least of a second that if they are in the right place or not and once you talk to the sweet lady there you will know how wrong and misunderstood the hotel is, only because of its placement. We a group of 6 people stayed there for one night and everything was great. From hygiene to our last check out, At least I loved it. All thanks to the person who manages all these, so beautifully and politely.

I booked for one night, but the experience was terrible. The room was infested with huge bed bugs, and the pillows and beds seemed unchanged for years. Despite the poor conditions, the staff expected a 10+ review, even telling me to "say what I felt." I strongly advise others to prioritize their health and stay away. The food was subpar, with unripe bananas served to all guests. A feverish person was left in the room, and without changing the room. The atmosphere was disrespectful, with some Indian guests singing inappropriate songs to a Chinese female tourist, which made me uncomfortable.as a Indian staying there..The lack of card payment options added to the inconvenience. I'm unhappy with my stay, and I suspect other reviews are fabricated. The hostel needs to improve its standards and train its staff and the tourist coming there..

It's a proper hostel.. the rooms are dorms with clean bathroom facilities... the breakfast is pretty good, basic though... loved the staff there (spl mention, Yusuf and Niranjan).. went out of the way to help me with my last minute city-shopping.. courteous and very helpful.. thank you:-)

I came here in colombo for a lecture at Colombo University, we three from India stayed for one day in monkey hostel. After the first day, the warm hospitality of Feenu, the wonderful host made our stay unforgettable by her warm welcome. The stay included breakfast also. We extended our stay for another two days, because this was the cheapest and best option available in the city centre. Now I am planning to visit Sri Lanka again with my family, and definitely I will stay here only. I came with fractured leg, and she made me all arrangements for my hospitality without any hesitation.Breakfast was also tasty. It's worth more than what we pay.

Don't go there if you need a rest. I don't know why but the staff just went in to the female dormitory at 6 am for no other reason than to check. Also in the morning they keep coming inside to wake up people or something? And let them know when their breakfast ist ready, but what about the other people sleeping? Some suffer from jetlag!The young girl working there something like feem or so, is rather with her boyfriend on the phone or chilling area than helping out and answering questions! A very unpleasant stay!

I stayed at Colombo Downtown Monkey dormitory near the station with my wife. We are from Tamil Nadu. Feenu was incredibly helpful—she guided us about the city and tourist places, and always made sure we felt safe and comfortable. The dormitory was clean and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Special thanks to Feenu and the whole team for making our trip memorable. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Colombo!

We arrived very early morning to this place but managed to get them to check us in as we needed to sleep before leaving 5 hrs later. We were allocated a room, or better to say a cupboard, at the end of the corridor on floor 3 with no window. It was a bit rank and had zero air flow. Tbh we didn't expect much more given the cheap price and central location so all in all don't expect anything amazing. At least the towels were clean. 🤣

Thoigh it is a hostel but it also offers individual rooms and I rented a queen room. The space was limited and the room had no ventilation which made it a bit smelly. The toilet was clean and compared to the room pretty spacious. The location was the best part about the place.

Alot of negative reviews on here but this place was actually decent. We were in room 301, it had a window, comfortable bed, table and chairs and a wardrobe. Air-conditioning and a fan! Shared bathrooms were alright, a bit dirty but hot water and always had loo roll. Reception were kind in checking us in and letting us store our luggage. Great location with lots of restaurants and a short walk to see the sunset by the water. We would stay again!

The location is great and very convenient with lots of night life and ambience. The staffs are helpful and professional. Rooms are clean ans spacious.

I spent there 5 Hours of sleep to catch a train. The air in the whole building is stinky and not fresh, spending there more than a day can definitely get you sick if you stay long. I was glad that i only had to stay there 5 Hours and not more. The dormitories don't have windows and 8 people are packed in a closed room.. The location is good, it's 10 minutes walk to the train station!

Not a bad place to stay, it’s cheap-ish compared to other hotels in the area. The location is great, easy walking to markets and railway station, and plenty of restaurants near by. The rooms are ok with no windows and cigarette smell comes through the air conditioner, beds are nice”softer than Thailand of Vietnam rock mattresses and private bathroom was clean enough. This place has dorm rooms upstairs however we heard no noise from above . 24hr access and front desk service, but that comes with loud music playing from 5am and also till 10pm, we were in room 001 right beside reception, I went out and asked for the desk staff to turn music down , which he did as he was only playing it for himself . all n all ok

Review of room 204. Having poked my head into other rooms during our stay, this was definitely the runt of the litter on the second floor. Stained ceilings and musty. People comment on hot showers and staff assured me they had them, but 7 attempts during our stay were fruitless. Was told staff would take a look on last evening but no one came in the entire evening or timescales given. No windows as others have said and sound proofing is non existent. Small obscured windows in the door not appreciated. Music ridiculously loud in reception at times. Staff are pleasant enough, rates good for the area, but would appear to differ greatly at various times of the year. AC and Wi-Fi good. Bathrooms clean. Free tea/coffee and use of fridge, but notice on fridge to only use items you have bought would be appreciated. Location is quiet overnight, subject to other guests. Would return but wouldn’t take the first room offered and would want to see hot water coming out of the showers before committing.

Very bad experience🤢.We went to the hotel at around 4 pm and booked about two weeks before. Even then, the room was not completely ready. When we went, they told us that the laundry had not arrived yet and that the bedsheets and pillowcases would be delivered in an hour. Then we went out for dinner and came back at around 12 midnight and they had not been delivered yet. We requested them at that time too. Even the ones that were delivered were damaged. Also, the AC was not cooling properly. The bathroom door was broken. The TV did not work either. There is a separate restaurant on the rooftop. It always plays songs or music with loud sounds. It does not matter if it is morning, afternoon or night, even if you go to have tea in the morning, there is no freedom because of that music. If you are going to play such music or sounds, at least play them in a way that suits the time and with less sounds so that everyone can enjoy them.

This hostel is definitely recommended. Their Staff is very kind, humble and helpful. Boss of this property is very nice and helping person.. As per my experience- I booked here dorm for 1 week but they offer me free upgradation to personal room.. Breakfast is very tasty.. Rooms & dorms are very clean Also on very cheap price.. They also have free water dispenser for guest… Don’t think too much… just book this property

I stayed in the dorm and it has mold on the walls. It smells bad due to no ventilation and extrmely old air conditioner that leaks. I got a cough from staying for 2 nights and it hasn't gotten better after a week! I contact the manager and he didnt answer me. The place is very old, not maintained and so unhygienic, Its surprising how they don't close it. found bugs in the mattress and they told me the bugs must have come from another hostel, such a joke. the most shocking, I saw the cleaning woman using the same towels we are provided, to wipe the bathroom floor with her feet!!! I said something to her and she told me it goes to the laundry, as if that makes it better. This means all of the filth gets mixed with the other towels and bedsheets. There was no toilet roll until my last night, i was shown messages where they have requested for toilet rolls but it seems the management doesnt care to provide . Thanks to abu for ordering tissue packs in the night and being a great host, but he can do much better than such a dive. Never recommend this hostel to anyone for your health and safety, they are cheaters and treat their staff and guests terribly!

Supportive staff, Delicious dinner to an afforadable price Room is also cozy, quiet, and comfortable. Rooftop view is amazing, you can get a relief from the stressful environment.

I had a wonderful stay at this hotel! The room was clean, cozy, and well-equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the staff was friendly and attentive. Highly recommend it for a relaxing getaway!

I stayed in that hostel on my visit to sri lanka The hostel is clean but it is in the second floor they bought 1000 LKR deposit that they return while check out Aminites: free water, free wifi ,

The best place near Galle face green in Colombo. Low cost, very neat, very friendly staff. Just 15 mins walk from beach . It’s just so good. They also provide footwear i think, didn’t ask but they were there. Overall 10 on 10

This hostel has all the basic services it needs. The room was clean, the washroom was clean. But I really liked the common area on the third floor. If you want to cook for yourself then there is a kitchen that can be used. The location was great and it's in a good neighbourhood. The room was really calm. There is no elevator here, so if you have physical weakness then this is not for you.

Our room was clean and comfortable. Shower & toilet facilities ok. Staff very friendly. Public sitting area could be cleaner but it was OK. Location was away from the city but good for Galle Face Green area.

Great for a stay before/after your trip in the city centre of Colombo. It is close to everything, despite the location being so central, rooms were very quiet. The staff were super friendly and gave great tips! I had a good night rest here after a long flight, recommend!

Very helpful, they answer very fast. They make me feel like like home. I recommend 200% Lovely time in Colombo , we will definitely come back!

Beds were stained and full of what seemed like bedbugs. There was cockroaches and hundreds of other bugs climbing the curtains. Had to find another acommidation in the middle of the night, and they refuse to pay back the money and charged us for the whole night. Ridiculous

We stayed in this Hostel in 2018 and it was really value for money. It is located on a busy street near Liberty mall, there is a discotheque right across from this place and transportation is easily accessible. The hostel is neat and clean and the sitting area has a TV, microwave, books and other activities to keep busy when free. The Hostel staff is literally amazing....my son and I were travelling on different flights as there was no availability and I had to leave him alone at the hostel (he was 18 at the time) for a couple of days and Dulaj took such good care of him. I would highly recommend this hostel, simply because people care here and they made our holiday in Sri Lanka memorable. Thank you 😊

We booked a room on booking.com and when we arrived they told us they were fully booked. Just shows a lack of organisation confirm your booking before arriving

We stayed here one night after arrival. We used their taxi service to get to the place, that was smooth. The staff was helpful, we left our luggage until our room was made, they prepared it quickly, and gave us some directions. The room where we stayed was dated, somewhat dirty, the bed was acceptable for one night. This was the most expensive room in Sri Lanka we stayed at and some were better. Thanks again for the guys working there, you made it a good first stay all in all.

A perfect stay in the heart of Colombo! The family room was spacious, clean, and very comfortable — ideal for both family trips and for a group of friends traveling together. The location is excellent, very close to Colombo Beach and Port City, making it easy to explore the city’s highlights. Great value and convenience for anyone planning a trip to Colombo.

Stayed for just one night at the start of our trip, chose the hotel due to the close location to the station, which was great. All the staff were so friendly and made us feel at home in Sri Lanka immediately, so thank you for that! We left our large luggage while we travelled around and the team were again super accommodating when we returned to collect it. Rooms were clean, bed was comfy, would definitely stay again!

The rooms do not really match with the pictures shown @ booking/google, they are very run down. Our room was also very noisy, due to the loud industrial air conditioning (I guess it is) in the backyard. Bottom line, I don't really understand the good reviews, do not be blinded by the pictures online & look at mine!

Very nice hotel and guest service. But be aware : LOTS OF SCAMS just in front of the hotel, they will approach you friendly and tell you today is a very special day in Colombo and there's a special ceremony in town. After a short ride, a few men surround you and pressure you to pay money. Please be careful, there's no real ceremony. Always use PickMe or Uber for tuk-tuks and ignore anyone who stops you in the street!!! 🙏🏻

Stay- end of September 2025 The staff is very nice and helpful (the person on night duty was really sweet - Prashantha, so were the day time staff, but the accomodation sucks). TLDR: There were bed bugs and the room was hot. We booked a family room. The room seemed fine we got there though it did look a bit tired and the AC was barely functional. If that's the case, there should at least be a fan in the room. It was just a one-night stay and it was already late so we weren't too worried until we saw two bed bugs on one of the beds. We asked if there were any options to stay elsewhere but were told the hotel was full. And cue the bites etc. Three adults had to share one bed to avoid the one where we first saw two bed bugs. Following that, we killed about ten as they crawled out and bit us through the night. Obviously no one slept well. Would not recommend staying here as the staff seemed very confused by the concept of bed bugs and couldn't offer any solution at all other than giving us a new pillow instead of the one we first saw the bed bugs emerge from. But no surprise, the bed bugs have definitely been there for a while - see the photo of them between the gap in the headboard. It was also incredibly noisy in the room thanks to construction outside and activities on the floor above and around us. They don't have food/breakfast sold on the property either but lots of options close by. And their card machine wasn't working, which was kind of the cherry on top of a terrible situation.

It was the perfect hotel for our one night stay in Colombo. Especially the staff were really nice. We arrived early in the morning and they let us stay in the lobby and made sure to let us check in as soon as possible!

I had a lovely time at the hostel. Super friendly staff and very supportive owner (thank youuuu!!!!!). The vibe is chilled , relaxed, common areas, with friendly guests and the pool and terrace are a bonus treat. Cocktails and food were fresh and delicious… spices could be adjusted to fit your taste :) Thanks again for the lovely time here and all the help. Highly recommendable… Will come back xx V

I had a wonderful stay at seconds. The room was clean, comfortable. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout my visit. The food was delicious. The location was perfect and calm. I’ll definitely stay here again next time.

I stayed here just for one night on short notice, and it was a great choice. The place is comfy, clean, and has a really cute vibe. The staff were very helpful with everything I needed, and the air conditioning worked perfectly wich is a must in Colombo. Overall, it’s a great spot for a short stay, and I’d definitely recommend it.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at this hostel, and I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations. The ambiance is relaxing and welcoming, making it a perfect place to unwind after a long day. The surroundings are well-kept and peaceful, which added so much comfort to my stay. The staff deserve special mention! They are very approachable, friendly, and always make sure you feel welcomed from the moment you arrive. Their hospitality truly adds to the overall experience, and it’s clear that they genuinely care about their guests. One of the highlights of my stay was definitely the food. Everything was delicious, but their dhal curry truly stood out — rich in flavor, perfectly seasoned, and clearly prepared with love. It’s one of those dishes you’ll remember and crave long after leaving! The facilities are also clean and well-maintained. I’m excited to visit again soon, especially to finally enjoy their swimming pool — it looks like the perfect spot to relax, refresh, and have fun with friends. Overall, I highly recommend this hostel to anyone looking for comfort, great food, and a wonderful environment. Amazing ambiance, exceptional service, and warm hospitality — can’t wait for my next stay! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We had a wonderful stay. It’s a very relaxed and authentic hostel. The double room was just what we needed with a fan and air conditioning after a few days of travelling. The breakfast was wonderful. Thank you to the kind staff too

Had a wonderful stay with seconds, the young staff from the front desk to kitchen was very friendly and made sure everyone had a comfortable stay. The place was always clean and the food was amazing. I highly recommend seconds to anyone to stay or hangout over drinks and dinner ;)

The hostels is powered almost entirely by solar panels, recycle the waste and conscious about the scarcity of water. It is a lovely place where we felt welcomed and relaxed. The check in process was smooth, even though we came late and the reception was closed. We received beforehand all the information by WhatsApp to check in. The room was comfortable and nicely decorated, backpacker friendly with nice paintings on the wall and a comfy bed on a base made of pallets. The commodities are cleaned daily. The kitchen offered a simple menu, with gluten free option for the breakfast ! In regard to the location, if you are looking to be in the heart of Colombo, this place is 25min south of it by Tuktuk. But if you are looking to dive into the local culture you are definitely at the right place ! You will find your usual supermarket 5min by foot, where you can buy a SIM card if needed. Local restaurants and shops are just a walk away, as well as the Tuktuk drivers quarters next to the canal. We enjoyed our stay at Seconds hostels for all these reasons and also for the kindness and hospitality of the owner and the staff.

We stayed two nights with a friend at this hostel and had a great experience. The place is very nice, the staff are warm and always ready to help. The rooms and facilities are clean and well maintained. We highly recommend it!

Lovely hostel, room was great with AC, has clean bathrooms and showers and the friendliest owner ever. Will come again, especially for the authentic breakfast! Thanks so much

Very decent hostel and you can see that the people working there know what they're doing. Good wifi, I got a fan for my bed in the mixed dorm, big lockers, filtered water available. Bathrooms are very clean, too. Good location in a decent, non-sketchy area. Only complaint maybe that the bunk beds move if the person above you moves too much, like in my case. But all the rest was great.

Such a nice stay as a solo female traveller! The owner was really really kind and helped me with a bunch of things. Breakfast is amazing and cheap, location is near a main road but I didn’t have any problem with the noise. Perfect for a daytrip to Colombo or if you are staying longer!

It was the place I stayed first, last and several days in the middle of my stay in Sri Lanka so I consider this as my local home now😁. I appreciated good communication - they reached out in advance suggesting to use mixed room instead of female since they were working on removing bugs from the last one and I was totally fine with that. Helpfull tips regarding the transport around and in general, nice chat! Breakfast was super. I enjoyed my stay and looking forward to coming back

Owner was so nice, with a great sense of humour. He gave us dinner recoms and also let me store my laguage and use the shower for a good price prior to my international flight home as my friend was staying at the hostel. Hostel, bathroom, living area and bedrooms all were clean. Lovely vibe to the place, wish I was staying the night!

The best place we stayed at in Sri Lanka - Marsha was so helpful and went out of her way to help us. The breakfasts were delicious also would definitely stay here again! Location is perfect for sight seeing ❤️

Good place with good management! They will help and take care of everything! The rooms are quite okay. Clean and very basic. Toilets are separated from the room, and they will give you a key that opens the a private shower and toilet ( in case you booked a private room). The location is great. Very close to the centre, the area is very safe as well. The only thing I didn't like so much was that there was a party in the next building and it was impossible to sleep due to the high volume. Great staying for a day or two.

Loved our stay at the hostel! They were very accommodating and kind the entire time, and let us do a very early check in without additional cost. We felt very comfortable and safe. Great central location. Highly recommended.

The place was nice, spacious room, with AC and friendly staff. I arrived at 3am and they were so sweet and kind to welcome me. The place is in a perfect location, easy access to all tourist attractions.

Very nice staff, so friendly and kind. The rooms and toilets were very clean. There is AC which really helps with the heat of Colombo. You can walk easily to some of the monuments and parks, 20 minute distance the furthest ones.

A cozy hotel with a welcoming atmosphere, perfectly located for exploring the area. The staff provides excellent service, always attentive and friendly, making the stay very enjoyable. Highly recommended for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and great hospitality. A special thanks to Surath for his kind attention!

Very comfortable place, the staff are very kind and always helpful, looking for what you may need. The hostel is very well located, and I will surely come back if I can. Special thanks to Darsana and Surat, two of the staff members who always helped me to be comfortable.

The place is clean and cozy. The food is delicious. The manager and staff are very helpful. I slept there for 3 nights and really enjoyed it. The place is quiet, away from the noise of the city. Thank you!

Had a fantastic experience! The receptionist was incredibly friendly. The room was clean, quiet, and well-maintained, with a nice washroom and good amenities and the value for money was excellent. If you need a safe, clean, and hassle-free stay in Colombo with kind and flexible staff, I highly recommend this hostel.☺️❤️

Well nice & calming place for the price. There are no attached bathroom for the room we hired though. Also there's not even a mirror. For most of them i think thats the case. There are public like bathroom for each floor. They are alright I guess. They keep it nice and clean but not the nost modern though.

Nice experience. Friendly customer service. clean place. Well maintained and Organised. Has separate dinning area, ironing area and tidy kitchen if you want to make some tea. Free parking available. Very close to Havelock city mall, Army hospital and BMICH.

We (a family of 4) spent 3 nights at the Hostel. We were on a budget and wanted to support a cause. The income from their operations supports ADIC - Alcohol and Drug intervention and education. We enjoyed the stay - basic yet comfortable - close to local amenities. The staff were quite helpful during our stay. They have a common area that I quite liked especially the balcony. Highly recommended if you are on a budget trip and want a safe and clean place right in the city. We had a welcome visitor to our room 😇

I had a wonderful stay at Havelock City Hostel with my aunty. The place was very good, with clean and comfortable rooms, and all the necessary facilities provided. The environment felt safe and welcoming, and the staff were helpful. Overall, it was a pleasant experience and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good stay💐

Found Havelock City Hostel on Google and stayed one night in a spacious double room with private bathroom. The room was clean, air-conditioned, and well-equipped with TV, kettle, and hot water. Staff were very friendly and even let us store luggage and use the washroom after checkout. A calm, pleasant place – highly recommend!

Rooms are fine but no smoking or drinking here. There were a lot of young people in the kitchen who were making a lot of noise without any reason. They say all lights will go off after 11 but I heard noises all night. Would not recommend it - I didn't enjoy my stay here.

The location is pretty close to Gangaramaya Temple and Galle Face Beach. The rooms are very clean and tidy. The staff is very friendly and nice. They let you checkin early if you reach early morning too, just reach out in advance. Con The neighborhood isn't very active and can be slightly scary if you are walking back. The rooms were slightly small for 4 people with their backpacks, given that the lockers are pretty small. Lot of mosquitos in the common areas especially.

Watch out guys! Don't trust them. They probably overbook the hostel. Made a reservation through booking.com long time ago. Today (check in day) they sent me this message: "Dear guest, We regret to inform you that Room E is not in a good condition to accommodate our guests due to a sudden maintenance issue. We further regret to inform you that the booking needs to be cancelled and we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Thank you. Gallface Terrace Team." Probably trying to get some money through your cancellation.

Awesome location and fabulous staff + The manager is what makes this place what it is! He's so kind and helpful no matter what time of day! Hostel is in a great location within walking distance of all the mains attractions and about 3 minutes walk from Galle Face Green where you can watch the sunset and sit by the sea. A little further (10-15 mins walk from hostel) is a huge modern mall. Comfortable beds. Tiny washrooms but a larger common washroom with hot water is available. Kitchen facilities so you can cook/makes drinks/store food in the fridge is also a huge bonus. Good AC in rooms

Comfortable beds, clean, working ACs. Weird location, you have to take a bus or PickMe to go anywhere that isn’t overpriced tourist spots, but otherwise a good experience. Kitchen could use a filtered water tap, but they sell bottles at a very fair price.

Although the facilities were not perfect, the place was still very comfortable, clean, and met all my needs. Galle Face is an amazing area - peaceful, yet vibrant and with many diverse options for eating out and enjoying the sunset. However, what made this a hostel I would easily recommend are Chamindu and other staff, who were so welcoming and helpful that I extended my stay. The only real downside was lack of proper anti-mosquito measures.

Location wise, it's perfect ,close to major attractions, restaurants, and public transport. I always felt safe and well taken care of throughout my stay. A very friendly staff who was always ready to help. Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

Overall we had a pleasant stay here, however we booked a four bed female dorm with an en suite. The door did not shut fully and there was no lock or any security. This was a major let down during our stay, as the minimum we would expect is to be able to fully close a door and lock it. In addition, the en suite dorms do not have hot water and lack water pressure. You have to go to the one main common room bathroom to technically have a reasonable shower. Staff were friendly but maintenance needs doing to ensure rooms meet the minimum standard.

No nonsense hotel with all the amenities and none of the unnecessary frills. Cheap, clean - and extremely kind and professional staff. Very good AC, big and clean rooms, great water pressure.

Location wise, it's nice and also for the price it's OK. But, the condition of the bathroom and the accessories are not properly maintained.

Big rooms and good for the price, staff was really helpful and friendly.

Great place and maintenance. I like and appreciate MR. Hasan Who is incharge here. Overall is 100/100. I would like to recommend everyone.

The place is pretty rundown and the rooms smell damp. When we arrived there was a large cockroach in the bathroom. The staff promised to get a spray for the next day, but when we saw two cockroaches the next night and I asked for the spray, the staff just laughed and said they forgot. They did help us kill them though. It was very noisy in the night. Overall an unpleasant stay and we couldn’t wait to leave from the moment we arrived.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at The Anam, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality that made me feel right at home. The location of this hostel is truly remarkable. Situated in the heart of Wellawatta, it offered easy access to the beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture. Whether I wanted to take a leisurely stroll along the shore or explore the bustling markets, everything was just a stone's throw away. The hostel itself was impeccably clean and well-maintained. The rooms were cozy and comfortable, providing a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. What truly sets this place apart is the staff. They were attentive, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that guests have a memorable stay. Their local insights and recommendations added an extra layer of authenticity to my trip. I had the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world, sharing stories and creating memories together. The stay was nothing short of fantastic. It's the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in this beautiful part of the world.

Very convenient location to shopping mall, restaurants, hospitals, etc The owner Mr Milfer and Mr. Hassan were very kind and helpful all the time.

BEWARE! There were more cockroaches than guests. Owner initially wouldn't show us rooms before paying, but I insisted. We did not stay here, and I would only suggest this place to the most adventurous and budget-dictated traveller.

The owner is super friendly and always available. Breakfast is ok, noodle and curry and bananas served at 8am. 14 beds in the room. Cleanliness is kind of ok (average for Sri Slanka). A/C only at night.

Hostel is good & affordable in the heart of city. But no facility of proper potable drinking water. 6 bunk beds in each room making it good for 12 ppl.

Huge room with too many beds. Hot as in Hell with just one fan. Dirty in the room and bathroom. Bed sheets are not clean as well. No mosquito nets, which is necessary as the hostel is close to a pond

Very nice clean and cheap place, nice view, I could literally see the stars when I felt asleep and the blue sky when I woke up (if u choose the right bed ;) ) The owner is very friendly, he is running a Ayurveda shop downstairs and he lived in germany for some years and he loves to speak German so if u are German do him and yourself a favour and choose his place 😆 (and if u are lucky he let's u see the skyline at night from the small roof 😅)

Located at the centre of the Colombo City. All the major attractions are easily accessible form this hotel. Near by to the central busstop also. A very good budget stay and yummy breakfast

Bad atmosphere in this hostel..I will come again in lanka..But I hate this hostel.. Rooms may be cheap..But quality is also cheap.. Entire Lankan trip is good..But the nature of the owner ...Very bad.. He had drunken..Came at midnight.. Scolded.. Used bad word..

Wouldn’t recommend staying here. The only good thing was location. Our room had no fridge, no mirror and bathroom was separate to the room. The room was infested with ants and now our luggage is covered in them. We had to pay to leave our luggage the day of checkout which we have never done the whole 4 months of traveling. Everything is overpriced (drinks). For the price it is not worth the money.

I honestly couldn’t recommend this place enough! The building and rooms are super modern and clean. The beds are super big and comfortable and the bedding and towels are so cozy. There are lots of plugs within the rooms and they provide adapters too for various plugs. The shower is amazing and is nice and warm with a great pressure. The rooms are not noisy at all and have a lovely outdoor balcony too. The AC works great and I didn’t even need it in the evenings as the rooms were cool enough. The building feels very safe with a buzzer lock on the front door that the FOH opens as well as cctv cameras throughout. The location is fantastic and is based in Colombo 3 so it’s pretty central to all surrounding areas and is only a few minutes drive from Colombo City Centre. The front of house manager is lovely and extremely helpful in every way. There is also a lovely rooftop chill area which even has a kitchen for guests to use! This will definitely be my good to spot to stay from now on whenever I find myself in Colombo! Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a comfortable spot in Colombo. Only recommendation is to have a sign outside the building! :)

WARNING: DO NOT STAY HERE I was refused upon check in! First he asked me for my passport, i gave him my NIC as i have a srilankan local ID. He said that he can only check people in with a passport not with a ID card. Then he said that locals where not allowed. I am adopted so i grew up in Belgium, so i show him my Belgium ID and passport and then he refused me and told me to go find an other place without an explenation! Very bad service there! I dont even know why they refused me! Iam a tourist! I book the room, i pay for the room... so whas the problem! DO NOT STAY HERE! Many other good places around!

Very clean, classy and minimalist decor. Lovely terrace to workout in or just chill, also minimal kitchen facilities whick you can use or just heat up food etc. Great views, and walkable to many nice and green parks and oarta of Colombo. Very helpful front desk but largely speaks Tamil. Would be good to have breakfast options, and the front room gets a bit of traffic noise and vibration, only reason for the 4 star.

Perfect location and great service! They easily accommodated our arrival after midnight. It’s in the perfect location for getting around Colombo, close to Galle Rd, Marine Dr and Galle Face Green. We didn’t experience any road noise from our room.

best location, reasonable price, the kindest and politest host - Dave helped me with everything. Also has a rooftop garden where you can chill. I would choose this place again, if i go to colombo. 5* for the place, thanks everything

The hostel is brand new, freshly decorated, nice bathroom, with common kitchen and a lovely rooftop terrace. Location is also excellwnt, close to the Victoria park

Looks lovely at night because of the lights of the high rises facing it. Late evening or at night are the bests times to visit because, it is hot during the day time and there is no place to take shelter from the scorching sun. There is no sandy beach below to dip your feet to cool off either. The cool breeze blowing across the Indian Ocean is refreshing at night time however.

Galle Face Green is one of the most iconic and vibrant spots in Colombo, offering a perfect blend of history, leisure, and natural beauty. Stretching along the Indian Ocean, this vast open promenade is where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the cool sea breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink. The place truly comes alive in the evenings, with families, couples, and friends strolling, flying kites, and tasting local street food like isso wade and fresh coconuts. The atmosphere at Galle Face Green feels both peaceful and energetic—a rare balance that makes it so special. Watching children play, vendors calling out cheerfully, and waves rolling against the stone barriers creates a charming, timeless rhythm of Sri Lankan life. It’s also an excellent spot for photography, morning walks, and simply unwinding after a busy day. The nearby landmarks, such as the Galle Face Hotel, add to the area’s historical charm. Overall, Galle Face Green captures the heart of Colombo—a place where nature, culture, and community meet. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, it’s a must-visit destination that leaves lasting memories.

It can be a nice place for a walk by the sea. But there isn’t much shade. It’s very open to the sun which typically shines right in front throughout the day. There are just patches of grass. It could be improved greatly. Also, be aware of people trying to sell you something or asking you for money. It seems to be quite common in this area.

🌅 Galle Face Green – Colombo’s Iconic Seaside Promenade ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A vibrant and timeless public space where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the ocean breeze, street food, and golden sunsets — Galle Face Green is the cultural heart of Colombo’s evenings and weekends. 🚶 Arrival & Atmosphere Arriving in the late afternoon, you instantly feel the energy. Families, couples, joggers, and street vendors bring life to the seafront. Many bring mats to sit on the grass, relax, and enjoy the fresh breeze. The open space and sea air offer a refreshing break from the city. Originally laid out in the 19th century during colonial times, this stretch has transformed into Colombo’s most iconic gathering ground. 🪁 Family Fun & Activities Kite Flying – Vendors sell kites starting around LKR 300, with larger and artistic designs available at higher prices. Watching the colorful sky filled with kites is magical. Kids’ Entertainment – Remote-control car rides, play zones, and ice cream stalls keep children happily engaged. Evening Events – On weekends, the promenade often hosts cultural shows, street musicians, and seasonal food festivals. 🍢 Street Food & Local Flavors From crispy isso wade (prawn fritters) and spicy kottu to fresh fruits and ice cream, the food stalls are a true highlight. Affordable, authentic, and full of flavor — perfect for a casual bite while enjoying the sea view. 📸 Views & Photography The sunset over the Indian Ocean paints the sky in gold, orange, and pink. With ships on the horizon and flags fluttering along the promenade, it’s one of Colombo’s most photogenic spots. Locals often come dressed for photoshoots, adding even more color and character to the scene. 🏙️ Nearby Highlights Galle Face Green is surrounded by some of Colombo’s top hotels, malls, and landmarks: One Galle Face Mall – Luxury shopping, dining, and cinema Port City Colombo – Modern urban development with walkways and cycling paths ITC Ratnadeepa – A rising luxury hotel complex Galle Face Hotel – Historic colonial-era icon, ideal for high tea or sunset cocktails Shangri-La Colombo – Modern luxury with excellent dining and views The Kingsbury Hotel – Known for buffets, rooftop bars, and elegant dining This makes Galle Face Green not only a cultural landmark but also a gateway to Colombo’s luxury, shopping, and lifestyle hub. 🅿️ Practical Tips Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon until sunset for cooler weather and vibrant atmosphere. Parking: Limited, but available near the Galle Face Hotel and One Galle Face Mall. Accessibility: Open, flat spaces with wheelchair and stroller access. Security patrols ensure it’s safe for families. ♻️ Respect Nature & Cleanliness ⚠️ Please avoid littering and dispose of garbage responsibly. Protect our environment — never throw rubbish into the sea. Keeping Galle Face Green clean ensures everyone can enjoy its beauty for generations to come. ✅ Final Thoughts More than a park, Galle Face Green is a cultural and historical landmark that blends everyday Sri Lankan life with coastal charm. Whether you’re here for a walk, a snack, a kite, or simply to relax by the waves, it offers a memorable and authentic experience. 🌟 Highly recommended for anyone seeking a lively, scenic, and flavorful evening by the sea.

🏙️ The ocean meets the heartbeat of the city here. Evening breezes, kites in the air, sizzling isso wade, and the endless golden horizon — Galle Face is Colombo’s soul laid bare. Come for the sunset, stay for the feeling. 🌅 Tips & Tricks: • 🌤️ Visit at 5:00–6:30 PM for the most breathtaking sunset. • 🦐 Try the isso wade from street vendors it’s legendary. • 📸 Bring a tripod if you want that perfect golden-hour skyline shot. • 🚗 Parking is easy near Galle Face Hotel in early evening hours.

Visited again in the month of November first week. Evening sky look great with sea breeze. The beach is clean and beautiful. Lot of kites on the sky and pleasant to watch. The green grass gone and could see sand everywhere and not sure why no green these days. I could see waves are too close now a days due to the artificial land created inside the sea by Chinese called Colombo Port City. I feel another decade the water will invade to Galle Road and nearby hotels. Few years back there mobile was eatery shops on beach side now shifted to newly built permanent shops about 10’-0 down from ground level so one can see the sea & waves from anywhere in the road side sit out. Nice planning by Colombo Municipal ( hope other cities can follow this in coming years )

Galle Face Green is one of those rare places where the vibrant rhythm of a city gently blends with the calm whisper of the ocean. Stretching for nearly half a kilometer along the Indian Ocean, this open promenade is Colombo’s largest seafront space — a true breathing spot for the city. By day, it’s a canvas of contrasts: the modern skyline on one side, the boundless sea on the other, and between them, families picnicking, children laughing, and colorful kites soaring high. Street vendors line the walkway with tempting local snacks — from spicy isso vade (prawn fritters) to fresh mango slices dusted with chili and salt, each bite carrying the authentic flavor of Sri Lanka. As evening falls, the place transforms. A cool breeze drifts in, the sky glows in shades of gold and crimson, and the sound of waves blends with laughter and chatter. It’s not a beach for swimming, but rather for simply being — sitting by the water, watching life go by, and feeling connected to everything around you. If you ever visit Colombo, Galle Face Green is a must-see. It’s more than just an oceanfront — it’s where the soul of the city gathers, where simple joys meet breathtaking views, and where everyone, local or traveler, feels at home.

It is a small man made lake with a temple and meditation place. There is a ticket for foreign travellors with LKR 400 per adult. This ticket can be used in Gangaramaya temple as well. You can cover this place along with Gangaramya tempe as they are just a road apart

A wonderful green space and water feature with plenty of wildlife. A great place for an early morning walk to enjoy the sights. Wonderful place for kids to see the animals around the lake and enjoy a ride on a swan. The temple and small island with the bridge walkway are enjoyable. I think the city could do more in terms of better maintenance, repairing the walk ways. My hat off and thanks to the wonderful ladies who are busy cleaning in the mornings. Thank you! Support the people of Sri Lanka!

The Beira Lake is a lake which is situated in the center of Colombo City. It is surrounded by many large businesses in the city. The lake was built by the Portuguese in order to protect Colombo from enemies, especially local kings. The lake gets an inflow of water from the Kelani River and flows out to the Indian Ocean. The lake area includes a park which has swan boat rides, a suspension bridge with a small island in the middle of the lake. It is a great place to spend some quality time relaxing in serenity, especially in the evening. It is home to the Seema Malaka Temple and is located close to The Gangaramaya Temple.

This lake in Colombo is a really nice spot, both for the temple on the water and for the lovely ride on swan boats. You can rent one for 30 minuts and pedal on the water among many smily local people. The atmosphere is great and you will get a nice view of the city buildings surrounding the lake.

There is a passenger boat service from Union Place to Colombo Fort implemented as a solution to ease the traffic congestion. Passengers could use the service free-of-charge. This service is operated by the Sri Lanka Navy. It is possible to travel from Colombo Fort to Union Place in less than 15 minutes.

The Beira lake is situated in the heart of Colombo. Surrounded by sky rise apartments and malls, its just a lovely lake to walk around. There is a little bridge that you can take to walk over into the center and benches to sit and unwind. The walk around the lake is a good 2 km so its perfect for an evening run. There are also little peddle boats that you can rent and use in the lake. The Buddhist Temple is also accessible from here and makes a great visiting spot for tourists.

Beautiful lake with a temple at it's shores, must visit.

A beautiful piece of architecture with a perfect blend of classical and modern architecture. Though you can have a great time around the building ,im not sure the gallery is open for visitors.Most of the time it is closed.

An absolutely lovely building that seems to be impossible to visit. I tried to enter twice this year (February and November) only to be told twice by the same lady that "it is closed, but you can take pictures of the garden if you like".

Peaceful and clam place. There are number of rare trees. Comfortable rooms. Lecture hall, dinning hall, also there. Good place to organize a program, camp, workshop.

Very helpful employees, who explained who painted these paintings. Gallery is ongoing reconstruction, only a part is open, but free..

The National Art Gallery in Colombo, Sri Lanka is the country's first national art gallery.[citation needed] The gallery is ocated in Cinnamon Gardens near the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park, the National Museum of Colombo, the Town Hall, Colombo and Colombo Public Library.[1][2]

The National Art Gallery is not open any more, it is basically just an empty space. Hopefully a national art gallery will be made available at some point.

The place had some beautiful, centuries old paintings. Unfortunately the place does not seem to be maintained that well. It's a shame really.

We had a very bad experience. The rooms are big but it had ants and cockroaches around. The balcony view was good but the area is slippery and should be very careful .The bathroom is very tiny and didn't had good ventilation and cramped. Also the food at restaurant was very limited options. We can see the chef's will eat with you with a better menu which you can't find outside.The location is good nothing else.

Awesome sea view hotel but very poorly maintained. Carpets were very dirty, restrooms were black in color, very dirty, no ventilation, bad smelling, flush not working properly, walls had water seepage, sofa and chairs were dirty. Pillow covers were stained, and we had to complain and get it changed again. Food was average. For the view the hotel has, if properly maintained, it would be an excellent stay. Balcony view of the beach is excellent, but the balcony was not clean. It had cigarette pieces and broken balloons all over the floor. Currently, the hotel lacks very much in maintenance.

The best thing about this hotel is its location. It justifies it's name "Ocean edge". It's just a road width away from the ocean. Taking the sea facing rooms is recommended. The rooms have almost all required amenities and the room service is good. The gym is small but fine. There is also a pool for swimming. The restaurant service is a bit slow though.

Awesome location. Just adjacent to the sea on marine drive. Suites are quite big with well equipped kitchen and accessories. Bath room is very small and disappointing. Food was quite good

The rooms were quite big, which is the only good thing about this hotel. However, both the room and washroom were very dirty, and the washroom had a terrible smell. The bedsheets looked like they hadn’t been changed in years. Restaurant service was the worst — we waited 45 minutes for our food, and when we asked, the waitress laughed and talked in her language instead of helping. Overall, a very disappointing stay. Would not recommend.

I am from Bangladesh just for vacation and stayed 4 days this hotel.. they r given to us best service ..and thier food was delicious.. Definitely I'll visit soon ☺️ thanks Ocean Edge hotels team.. thanks a lot..

Great stay. I left my shoes and the owner was so sweet to get it deliver back to India. Great service.

"I had a bad experience with the receptionist in the morning section. I heard he has been working there for 10 years, but he didn't show any respect towards us. When we asked for help, he acted like he didn't know or ignored us completely. However, the cooking aunty was very friendly and dedicated to her work." The hotel under renovation full of noise and dust, so expensive rate, not worth actually

Worst service and room facilities. When i ask for a towel and bedsheet reception they were saying Because of the local downtown they stopped giving. Lockdown was in 2021. I checked in on 2024 December 20.

Very bad, room now good very small. Have no window in the room

First time i had terrible experience due to their environment as they were doing some leftover renovations which disturbed my bedtime as well as the rooms and bathrooms weren’t clean but after 6 months the whole things turned opposite. Room, bathroom, dining area, lounge are clean. Calm environment without any disturbances. Morning breakfast is served with delicious food. Prices are reasonable also this one is 24 hours check-in and out services compared to other hotels in that area, I would highly recommend to stay in this place.

Saasha city hotal Good stuff here good place good location

Good location for the Indian ppl somehow others too . It’s on Sea street, it’s jewelry shops Street. Many Good Indian veg restaurants . Too easy to find this hotel . From the Khan clock tower enter to sea Street just go down to near end of sea street. On the right side you will find the Saasha hotel big board

The receptionist converted my £60 (used as a deposit) to rupees without permission to pay for the room. He took my money then became incredibly aggressive. He raised his hand to stop me from talking & said he refused to help/kick us out if we didn't pay (this was after I said I would complain). I was left in tears in my room! The rest of the staff were very wonderful though.

Good hotel for the money. Reception staff are less than useless, showed us our room, never said a word, didn't explain anything. Manager more than maid up for the others lack of professionalism. Didn't eat or drink there. There is also building work going on out the front that starts about 8am.

I stayed here for two nights in a deluxe room. The room itself was good and clean, and the first day went smoothly. However, on the second day, the air conditioner started making strange noises, dripping water, even throwing out ice chunks, and wasn’t cooling properly. (Tip: don’t keep your laptop or belongings under the AC—it leaks badly.) I requested a room change from the manager, and he assured me another room would be arranged by 12 o’clock. But there was no follow-up. I even messaged the lobby, and instead of helping, they asked why I wanted to change rooms. I explained the situation, but still received no response and no room change. Since I had work, I couldn’t keep chasing them about it. In the evening, I went to the lobby to collect my invoice, and the staff acted as if nothing had happened. They even asked me, “Didn’t you change the room?” I replied, “You never showed up with the arrangement, so how could I change?” The staff just ignored it and said nothing. The room itself was good, and the staff seemed polite, but the customer service was absolutely disappointing. For the price I paid, I could have easily gotten a better room with far better service elsewhere. The only positive is that the location is good. My rating: 0 stars for customer service.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was very comfortable. Everything was fresh and full of flavor. I’ll definitely come back again. Highly recommended!

It was good in the way they accomodated me though I reached before the check in time. Moreover, their staff is nice and facilitating. The problem faced was that their AC maintainance is not good and I had to change three rooms due to AC not working in the first two rooms. One more thing, they do not provide washroom slippers though they should. Most of the hotels do provide disposable ones but not this hotel.

Very nice food and service. confutable rooms and beautiful location 👌.

We had to leave early because of an huge cockroach in our room. Some comments before mentioned this already but the other good reviews, the price and location convinced us to try out this hotel.

Best Location for business in Colombo. Staff and management very kind at cheap prices. Recommended for every time

Very Scary Place to live. Not a Family hotel especially not good for Ladies. Its a boys hostel. The reception is very rude, our delivery boy handed over money to him and he didn’t returned back us. Also when we ask to change room they misbehaved and talked really rudely Just because we had paid the amount so we had to complete our days otherwise its not a family place at all! You will hear all noises coming in the night. No customer service by them! Not recommended at all!

very very bad customer service and rooms before check in they say a amount for charge after check in they take double payment and speaking arrogantly if you not compromise they black mail you and take money much from you

I had a very disappointing experience with the cashier at this hotel. He was extremely rude and lacked basic customer service skills. Due to his unprofessional behavior, I had to find another hotel at 9 PM, which was highly inconvenient. I would not recommend this place to anyone based on this experience.

don't go there they steel ur full money and very bad customer service and the room are not good and ladies please don't go there ,not safe ,harmful

A friend of mine had a terrible experience at this hotel. The cashier was rude and unprofessional, making it difficult to communicate. Because of this, my friend had to find another hotel at 9 PM, which was a huge inconvenience. I wouldn’t recommend this place based on their experience

This place offered me a clean and comfortable stay. Great value for money. I felt it was a safe and decent place for a solo female traveller. The room and bathroom was quite small, but had the basics in place and was clean and functional. There was quite a nice public balcony space and I enjoyed a very short stay here.

The location and rooms are worth for the money, however the staff is extremely rude and didn't know how to treat some foreign guests as well as the visitors who came to visit the guest. Using local language to talk in a threatening and unpleasant way. Will not recommend this place if you are looking for hospitable staff. However the property's location and rooms were good which is not enough to justify the way people are treated since hospitality should be priority number 01.

I enjoyed my stay at the hostel very much. At the time, there wasn't any tourist when I visited Colombo. Service was excellent. They clean everyday! There is water refill, and food to order. I love the acai bowl! The employees love giving out great advice. Thank you so much!

One of the best places I stayed. The staff is very welcoming and really genuinely friendly here. The included breakfest is pretty good and the house is clean, with everything working as it should, except the wifi which is only available downstairs. Also, it is a bit far from the city centre, but the location is in a nice neighborhood. Would stay longer if I had a reason to stay in Colombo.

5 out 5 for the BunkYard Hostel, staff is very nice, helpful and competent. The hostel itself is very clean and maintains a high standard to satisfy it's customers. Prices are really reasonable and a complementary breakfast is included. I stayed here for two weeks and don't regret staying​ here even for one day. In the lobby you can meet and talk extensively with newcomers from around the globe, the staff even joins in and really puts up an effort to get to know their customers. Best hostel I have ever stayed in. Keep up the amazing work. And thanks for two great weeks!

Awesome atmosphere. It's the perfect place to meet other travelers especially if you're just starting your trip. Free basic breakfast but they also serve other delicious items at a charge. Hostel is about 15-20 minute drive to Pettah Market and Galle Face Green but it's close to the National Museum and Independence Square. Staff is also very helpful!

Not exactly cheap for a Sri Lankan hostel, but a great one. Exceptionally clean, comfortable beds and an amazing staff, very friendly and helpful. Ended up having drinks and amazing conversations with them one night. Great common area as well, where you can hang out with the new friends you can be sure to make here.

This is a nice hostel. I stayed in both the dorms as well as a private room. It is social and has a common area with plenty of places to ‘chill out’ the lady that makes breakfast is sooo sweet! I really loved her. She was delightful. The staff is also friendly. The dorm rooms weren’t that comfortable - the light / outlet at my bed did not work and if someone took a shower then the bathroom flooded. The private room was better and I was able to actually sleep.

This is the hostel I have ever been! Great location, super clean (Rooms & facilities), comfortable beds and bed sheets/towels smelling amazingly fresh washed. Outstanding staff, knowledgeable, friendly, good mood, supersuper helpful!!! Breakfast roti & curry plus tea/coffee, but nice European breakfast options around the corner. It has been a great experience, anytime again :)

I stayed a night in this small but so complete hostel. It is spotless clean, the staff in so kind and helpful, specially the receptionist. She is a jewel. Bed super comfy, no noise whatsoever. Hot water in showers, great ac in the bedroom. I booked again to rest before my plane. Simple and great. Well done guys.

It’s a beautiful place. Very clean and staff is polite and nice. Air conditioner works 24 hours and the rooms are immaculate clean. Just the curtains can be a bit noise when people are getting out from their capsules without opening it properly. We got a double bed capsule and it was good. Although staff are also using those toilets. Very disappointing breakfast. We didn’t get the one in the menu and it was still 8:15 am (they serve from 7 to 9 am). So they offered us a sandwich with sardine, mayonnaise and onions plus tomato. It was not definitely tasty and I couldn’t eat it as the flavor of the sardine was not good. So I asked for only toast and butter. Also very tasteless. Luckily I had cake in my backpack so I was able to get my own breakfast.

The set up of the rooms and how clean they were was the best thing about the place. The beds including pillows and covers were very comfy. Breakfast was very good. Location was good near world trade centre and restaurants etc. A/C didn't get into the pods due to privacy blind so made it quite hot to lie or sleep in. Price is high for what it is.

It's a great place. I had a premium bed but that day, I was the only person so basically I have all the premium room to myself! Very comfortable and clean. Staffs are friendly, kind, and cheerful. Did not try the breakfast since I am allergic to it. But they put in a lot of effort in offering something else.

Comfortable and exactly as described. Our double capsule was spacious for two. The locker under the bed was large enough to store both our backpacks, which made for a better nights' sleep. We arrived without a booking around midnight, and staff took great care to show us our area and facilities. Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that the showers were cold - mind you after a few seconds I adjusted to the temperature and I felt fine.

Came here very late at night after a flight delay. The receptionist was fast and efficient. And most importantly, very very friendly. He helped offered me food because I was starving that night. The concept is amazing and it works well. The bed and rooms are clean. So are the bathrooms. Would be back and would recommend to anyone. Keep it up!

The hostel is nice and clean. The staff is also nice and kind. Price was 4187 per night for double bed for two persons, breakfast included. Position is convenient because is 10 minutes walking from train station, 15 from bus station. Located in downtown, 2 minutes from cargillas supermarket. Breakfast it was tea or coffee, a juice, one banana and one sandwich. Bathroom and bed are clean. Problem is aircon, very strong and cold if you are in the dorms, very hot if you are in common ambience and this strong temperature changing is not pleasant neither healthy. Also if you are in your bed and you close the curtains no aircon almost can get in and it can be quite warm and low breathing. Second problem is the lockers, they are good and with a key, but space for 2 big backpacks is ridiculous and you will not able to fit in. Price maybe is a little hi comparing to average prices. You can pay with credit card.

The photos are very different from the real. Room is very small. But AC works well. Staff is helpful. There is a big space for hanging the laundry. Good they provide drinking water. The location is good. Close to the shopping mall, beach and some places to eat. Clean enough but I saw a big cockroach outside of the room.

This place is just an amazing choice for a budget traveller. It had everything one can ask for. Comfortable Bed, Dorm bed has curtains for privacy, Great Cleanliness and service and fantastic location. The people were amazing too and got to network a lot with them . Special Thanks to Sam who was more than available for us on our trip and just was an amazing host. Would love to visit again.

I went in this hostel just for 2 night with some friends for our last days. The location is very good, you’re close to the city center and the beach, there is also a big mall at 10 min walking if you need something. Room and bathroom are both very clean. However the staff are very unpleasant. He came at 6:30 am to turn on the AC and start to mop the floor and to talk to me. He asked me money for the drying machine because I used it only 10 min at 7:20 am. CRAZY…… When we asked if it’s possible to leave our bag packs just for few hours he says we have to pay like 2 USD. First time in 6 month in Asia 😢😢. He also asked us to leave at 11:15 because we were waiting in the living room for 20 min and the checkin it’s at 11am and if we want to stay we have to pay because we’ll use the WiFi. I don’t recommend it. There is so much better.

Located very close to the galle face garden. Its just a 5 minute walk to the garden. A very modern hostel. The rooms and washrooms are clean. They have nice spaces to sit down and relax. Free water from the filter, microven, toaster, fridge, laundry service is available. They have cctv camera in the open spaces for safety. Its a very modern hostel with automatic lights so you dont have to press any switch to turn the lights on in the corridors and washrooms. Chess and some other board games are available. There are many books and magazines as well. And a very helpful staff but they are a bit weak in english (at the staffs i had to interact with)

INDIANS/BROWN PEOPLE AVOID THIS HOSTEL AS THE HOST/MANAGER IS RACIST. Me and my sister explored Kandy, Ella and Mirissa and we have never encountered such racism. We stayed in this hostel for 15th August night. The location is good and room was okay. The host and the helper men were racist. 1. Check in took about 30 mins. Since we were travelling entire day and were sick, we requested for speedy checkin for the stay but he asked us which country we are from and took extra time for the checkin process. Whenever we asked for the update like how long will it take, his reply was always “SILENCE”, even though we are talking in normal voice. He doesn’t have basic manners how to deal with guests or sick people. 2. Finally he checked us in and gave beds in 2nd floor and this building has no elevator. First time in Sri Lanka, the host/helper didn’t help with the bags saying they don’t do it. After several request and maybe a bit humanity was left in him, he helped us sick people. And the racism was so evident cause next day during our checkout, a white girl checked in and the helper guy offered to help her with the bags. So good manners are only reserved for white people. 3. We did online booking and this hostel only has mixed dorms. Now there were 2 dorm rooms in one floor. The first room had only 1 girl and the rest beds looked empty so we requested him to give us bed in that dorm since that have a few girls. But he gave us beds in the other room which had only indian men and said ‘all Indians in one room’. when we requested again he said everything is booked but beds were empty. He showed us only the washroom stalls in the first picture to use even though there were more stalls available (second picture) which we got to know when he was showing to the new checked in girl and his expression changed when he saw us sitting in the living room area. Now inside the room, he gave us only top beds even though an entire unit of top and lower beds were empty. My sister was dizzy so we requested for 1 lower bed cause it’s not safe for her to climb to top bed. But he said it’s not available. We checked with the roommates if anyone is in that empty bed, they said noone is there and we can request the host to give that bed to us. But he again denied. Later on at around 1 AM in night one guy came asked the woke roommate which bed was empty and slept and left in morning. He was most probably the other helper guy in the hostel. So they are using mixed dorm for personal use and denying sick people for basic help. As we girls talk, we found out the other room was also a mixed dorm and beds were empty. In late evening some German girl checked in, he checked her in the other room. Same repeated the next morning. He kept all white people in 1 room and lied to us that everything was booked. So *if you are a brown girl/Indian especially solo female traveller, avoid this hostel* cause even if there are beds available in dorms where more girls are present, they will still give you a bed in a room full of brown guys. And you will see their racist behaviour in front of your eyes. For white people, great hostel.

Great location in the center of city and budget friendly. AC did not work when we were there but maybe that could have been one time event. Overall it was fine.

Lovely staff, 24/7 checkin was life saver. Surprised by how clean and well taken care of it was. And the price is incredible

Amazing location, central to the city. Clean rooms. Peaceful atmosphere. And a decent crowd. There is no food menu at the hostel and the WiFi is sporadic but it’s all worth it. Child-friendly so far, I saw a couple spend time with their baby for few days here.

Great stay — friendly staff and very comfortable beds! Alma is a quite recent so everything looks new and beautiful. The staff were super friendly and helpful, always ready to assist and make you feel welcome. It has a really pleasant garden and an outside kitchen fully equipped that guests can use, which is very convenient if you want to cook your own meals. The dorm beds are comfortable and clean, and each bunk comes with a curtain for privacy, as well as a personal reading light and outlet — a really nice touch. However having a private and small shelf inside each bunk would be great, as well a few extra hangers on the room, but overall it was a great and comfortable stay. Would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy and well-run hostel!

the hostel is lovely and the staff are amazing, had a really unpleasant guest in my room and they sorted it all out. the vibes are lovely and there’s a kitchen which is great for making cheap meals. there are 2 grocery stores nearby. had a great stay!!

Location is great, there are several restaurants and cafes around. You can take the bus to reach Pettah market or a TukTuk. Rooms are clean and spacious with lockers for each bed. There is a lovely outdoor area with seats, tables, hammock and kitchen with microwave and a fridge for guests to use. Staff is friendly and helpful and you can also pay by card upon arrival!

I enjoyed a tranquil and comfortable week at Alma, the facilities are very good - clean, well maintained and tastefully furnished, with areas where you can socialise, relax and work. It was wonderful to have access to a well equipped kitchen, even though the hostel has a Cargill's, Keells, restaurants, French bakery, cake shops all within walking distance. The staff were friendly and always on hand to help and I met some lovely travellers here too. Great job and thank you, Alma team! 🙌✨

Lovely hostel, well located in the city center of colombo but still in a quiet neighbourhood. Very nice equipped and clean rooms, beautiful garden and wonderful staff. Thank you!

I recently had the pleasure of staying at this newly opened hostel in Colombo, and it truly felt like a home away from home. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the owners and staff going above and beyond to ensure every guest feels comfortable and welcomed. The facilities are modern and spotlessly clean, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. Its central location makes it easy to access local attractions, markets, and eateries. If you’re planning a trip to Colombo, I highly recommend this place for its exceptional hospitality and cozy ambiance.