Hostel Backpacker 44

I planned to stay one night, but my first visit turned into four nights, and on my second visit I stayed another five before leaving. Seyan, the owner, speaks fluent English, which you can enjoy in Sri lanka, and he's helpful and friendly. The place feels like home, is clean and air-conditioned, and they clean it every day, which is great if you're particular about hygiene. Totally recommended!

We were invited to breakfast, many thanks! The staff were very kind, and nothing was a problem. It's near the city centre but still quiet enough for sleeping. You can rent motorbikes here too.

The employees were humble and funny, and I felt comfortable. Facilities and service were quite satisfactory, and the bathroom was clean and comfortable. There's a small pile of dirt on a page that's unpleasant to look at. Tourist attractions aren't far away, and security is maintained around the clock.

The room itself looked like the photos, but the rest of the stay was a letdown. There was no proper common space or even a small table in the room, towels cost extra to rent, and I found a cockroach in our room. The toilets were dirty: two were really bad, while the other two were just bearable. We’d booked two weeks ahead, but when we arrived late at night they seemed unprepared for us. I reserved beds for five men and three women, yet my five male friends were put in a four-bed room with an extra mattress on the floor, even though staff said the limit was four. I’d paid in full for all five, which felt unfair. The men’s dorm didn’t have a key, and the explanation that staff would look after the room didn’t make sense to me. The receptionist wasn’t much help when my friend needed scissors to dress an injury. Someone was in the room beside the front desk, but didn’t answer until I called out loudly. I regret staying here. I’m not trying to hurt the business, but I have to be honest, they need to improve. I heard locals tend to choose this place and foreigners don’t. I couldn’t even bring myself to take photos.