Best Affordable Hotels in Sri Lanka: Where to Stay on a Budget

Best Affordable Hotels in Sri Lanka: Where to Stay on a Budget

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Arabiers Digital

10 January 2025 | 12 min

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka but worried about finding the ideal place to stay during your vacation? Worry no more because Arabiers  got you! Whether you are looking for a stay for a strict budget or seeking a very luxurious experience, Arabiers got it all. We have handpicked both affordable as well as luxury hotels in Sri Lanka to meet every traveler’s unique needs and requirements to make your stay at Sri Lanka unforgettable


Secret Palace Guest House


Secret Palace Guest House is a cozy and charming 3 star property that is located at the heart of Galle Fort  which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you must not miss. This guest house architecture and interior is inspired by the early colonial style and it also has the perfect blend of traditional Sri Lankan architecture featuring unique interiors with simple yet modern touches. The hotel offers between 5 to 14 rooms that come with essential amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and en-suite bathrooms.

Guests can enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that is served in the small dining area inside the property. Friendly staff provides really good services to make sure that you enjoy a very warm and welcoming stay. Furthermore, they also offer very unique experiences such as guided walks all around Galle Fort and easy and convenient access to nearby galle beaches. Prices are very budget friendly at this property and they are starting at just $25 per night!


CityRest Fort


CityRest Fort is a 3 star budget friendly  hotel that is located in the heart of the Colombo vibrant Fort area and this hotel offers very convenient and  easy access to main key attractions in Colombo like the World Trade Center and Galle Face Green. This property’s architecture and interior designs were inspired by modern and  minimalist design that creates a cozy atmosphere that is ideal for relaxation and perfect for travelers. The rooms feature essential amenities such as air-conditioning , free Wi-Fi and a shared lounge area.

The hotel features a very  aesthetic on site cafe area that serves nice meals and snacks for its guests. Friendly,pleasant  and attentive staff are ever ready to  provide amazing customer services to make sure that you enjoy a very welcoming stay. Also, guests can enjoy unique experiences such as walks through the busy streets of Colombo. Prices of the hotel start at just $20 per night.


Clock Inn Kandy


Clock Inn Kandy is a budget friendly 3 star hotel that is  located at  Kandy and it is just a very short walk away from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the beautiful Kandy Lake. Furthermore this location  offers unique experiences such as easy access to cultural destinations and beautiful surroundings such as the Lake. Prices  of the rooms start at just $15 per night and this location is ideal for budget conscious travelers that are excited to visit Kandy.


Ella Nature View


Ella Nature View is a very pleasant and budget friendly hotel  that offers breathtaking views of the Ella’s green tea plantations. This comfy and eco-friendly property is located very close to certain top attractions such as Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge. The architecture is inspired with wooden interiors that perfectly blend with the natural tea estate green surroundings. Guests can indulge in delicious Sri Lankan local dishes at the on-site restaurant. Prices of the hotel start at around just $20 per night.


Sigiriya Rock Hide


The Sigiriya Rock Hide is a beautiful inn that is located near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress which is a must visit UNESCO World heritage site and this eco-friendly hotel offers  very calm and peaceful surroundings with comfortable accommodations for relaxation.

Rooms feature basic and essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and breathtaking garden views. Guests can also enjoy local Sri Lankan authentic dishes at the restaurant. It provides very personalized services by pleasant and friendly staff and it is located very close proximity to cultural landmarks creating a very unique experience. Prices of the rooms start at just $25 per night.


Hangover Hostels Mirissa


Hangover Hostels in Mirissa is located a few steps away from the beautiful  Mirissa Beach and this pleasant hostel caters their services to backpackers looking for dorms and private rooms. Rooms are facilitated with essential amenities like modern interiors, free Wi-Fi and a perfect social atmosphere. Enjoy unique experiences  such as shared meals, delicious barbecues and surfing lessons. They provide friendly personalized services,a bustling location near nightlife and whale watching tours make it a unique experience. Prices start at just $10 per night.


The Bamboo Bed & Breakfast Negombo


This elegant and comfortable bed and breakfast is a beautiful hotel that is set in a nice neighborhood near the gorgeous Negombo Beach.The interior of this property features bamboo inspired décors and the rooms are facilitated with essential amenities like  air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi  and a lovely free breakfast. Friendly and pleasant staff provide warm hospitality,

welcoming stay and a quiet atmosphere that make it perfect for relaxation. It is located in close proximity to the airport and local market for convenience purposes . Prices start at just $20 per night for a peaceful budget friendly stay.


Trevene Hotel Nuwara Eliya


Trevene Hotel is located in the beautiful highlands of Nuwara Eliya. It is a boutique hotel that’s architecture and interior is inspired by colonial-style design with a touch of  vintage. The rooms feature traditional décor, amazing garden views and essential amenities like free Wi-Fi. Friendly service and a peaceful atmosphere  provide a unique and a calm experience. Prices start at just $30 per night for lovers.


Arugam Bay Surf Resort


Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise and this beachfront resort offers perfect budget friendly bungalows and dorms with basic and essential amenities. It is located near a popular surf break and the resort features a very laid-back design and it features various facilities such as free Wi-Fi and an open-air restaurant that serves delicious fresh seafood. Guests can easily enjoy unique experiences such as surf lessons, yoga and bonfire nights. 


Green Grass Hotel and Restaurant Jaffna


Green Grass Hotel and Restaurant is located in Jaffna and this is a very budget friendly hotel that offers rooms that have basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and simple yet beautiful decor. They have a restaurant on site that serves authentic Jaffna cuisine dishes. Prices start at just US$ 20 per night that makes the perfect budget for your next trip.


Conclusion


Sri Lanka offers a range of budget friendly hotels and each of these hotels  provide unique experiences, comfort and convenience to its best. Whether you are planning to explore cultural landmarks or relax by the beach of the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, these affordable accommodations will make sure that you enjoy your trip without compromising on quality or service even though you are on a budget.


FAQ's


●    The average price is around $10 - $40 per night, depending on location and amenities.

●    Almost all of them take good care about security, but you should at least read reviews to select a good one.

●    Many such hotels do, yet this information should better be confirmed in advance.

●    Yes, you might find some ecological friendly budget-level options, such as small guesthouses or hostels, at almost all locations.

●    Book using booking platforms like Booking.com, Agoda.com, and Expedia.com. Make sure you compare prices. The best deals are secured during the off-season period of the year

●    Most of the budget hotels are located near major tourist destinations, thereby making commuting easier for people.

●    Standard facilities include a clean room with private or shared bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and sometimes air conditioning

●    Yes, but note that this may be restricted to the last minute during peak tourist times.

●    Some do, and it would incur an extra cost. Discuss the same while booking.

●    Definitely yes! They are much cheaper and very social-something one would look forward to, especially if traveling alone.