Affordable Hotels in Sri Lanka

Weligama (Sri Lanka)

A simple five-bedroom guesthouse set above a hugely popular, family-run Italian restaurant. Within walking distance of Weligama Bay, this friendly B&B boasts airy rooms — some with private balconies — as well as a shop stocking top local brands. A great-value choice with an excellent pizzeria.

• Active Holiday - Ideal for keen surfers who can stroll across to the beach or hop in a three-wheeler to more nearby surf breaks
• Surfing - Weligama is a surfing hotspot — you'll find board hire and friendly instructors just across the street
• Value chic - A simple, affordable guest house in a great location, with a warm team & fantastic food
• Restaurant - Rise is one of the most popular Italian restaurants on the south coast, famed for their pizzas!

Sigiriya

A tranquil boutique base for Sigiriya Rock explorations. Reminiscent of the island's old rest houses, classic red-tiled rooms feature wood-and-cane furniture and an elegant cream palette. Ideal for couples, friends and families eager to appreciate great Sri Lankan fare and heritage style.

• Trekking - Hike up Pidurangala Rock in the early morning or evening for superb views of Sigiriya & beyond — visibility is limited at dusk!
• Active Holiday - Clamber up Sigiriya Rock and Pidurangala Rock, go cycling or enjoy safaris in nearby Kaudulla or Minneriya National Parks
• Safari - Safaris in Kadulla or Minneriya National Parks offer sightings of elephants, peacocks and tropical birds
• Sights nearby - The big draw is enormous Sigiriya Rock: one of Sri Lanka's most famous cultural hotspots

Tangalle

Simple yet chic this unassuming little cluster of wooden cottages has been welcoming guests for years. Ideal for travellers or couples on a budget, seeking some relaxation. There is a popular bar where guests congregate plus a beach restaurant serving tasty Sri Lankan dishes. Great value.

• Value chic - Private cottage accommodation at an excellent price
• Fishing - Tangalle is a sleepy fishing village - trips can be arranged in town
• Kayaking - Get on the waters in your very own kayak
• On the beach - Located on Tangalle Beach

Colombo (Sri Lanka)

A five-bedroom B&B above one of Colombo's most popular cafés. Airy, whitewashed guest rooms have crisp linens, rattan lampshades and thoughtful touches including wooden desks & lovely plants. Famed for its fresh cuisine, Café Kumbuk is a hive of activity in a trendy part of the city. Charming.

• Local exploring - Brilliant for exploring the area around Independence Ave & Colombo 7 on foot, including galleries, theatres, shops & cafes
• Value chic - A simple B&B housed above a popular Colombo cafe, with pared-back, affordable rooms in a great spot
• Local markets - The Saturday morning Good Market, at the nearby racecourse, is brilliant for delicious organic food, plus crafts & clothing
• Restaurant - Café Kumbuk is a lively spot for big breakfasts, brunch & lunch, with vegan & veggie options aplenty

Jaffna (Kokkuvil)

A historic family home transformed into a simple boutique hotel with dark wooden furnishings & big windows overlooking a refreshing pool & gardens. The civil war bunker-turned-art gallery is a highlight, and the restaurant's Jaffna specialities are not to be missed. Affordable and full of character.

• Artworks - The war-era bunker has been transformed into a gallery housing a private collection, including works by the famed ’43 Group
• Families - Cots and extra beds can be arranged for little ones, and the swimming pool & gardens will delight families
• Value chic - A very reasonably priced choice on the quiet outskirts of Jaffna, with simple heritage charm
• Sights nearby - The Jaffna Public Library, Clock Tower and Fort Hammenheil — the latter reached by boat — are all fascinating

Arugam Bay (Sri Lanka)

A lively little hotel on Arugam Bay's bustling main street, with ochre-painted suites alongside an inviting swimming pool. Expect airy, minimalist interiors, with beanbags & four-posters. The Asian eatery & cracking coffee & cake spot usher in quite a crowd. Live music nights are great fun!

• Surfing - Ride the waves at some of the best surf spots on the south coast — book lessons, borrow boards or bring your own to top breaks
• Active Holiday - Well-placed for keen surfers, who are within walking distance of the beach, and a short drive from various superb surf spots
• Groups - Great for groups of friends or families, who will love the eatery's lively buzz & refreshing dips in the pool
• Restaurant - Enjoy cracking coffee & pastries at Kaffi, before tucking in to Asian street food at Little Bang Kitchen

Hiriketiya (Sri Lanka)

A stylish yet affordable little hotel with five individually designed guest rooms surrounded by jungle gardens in trendy Hiriketiya. Simple interiors feature polished concrete floors, outdoor showers with mosaic details, four-posters and warm tones. Expect kitchenettes & big terraces, too. Charming.

• Families - The interconnecting family room is ideal for families with older children — the rooms share a bathroom and terrace
• Hideaway - Set slightly back from the bustle of Hiriketiya Bay, yet well-placed to stroll to the beach & surf
• Surfing - Surfers will love honing their skills on the waves of Hiriketiya Bay — hire boards and take lessons if you like
• Great walks - Venture over the hill to Dikwella Bay for beautiful beach walks on a long stretch of golden sand

Arugam Bay (Ulle, Arugam Bay)

An Arugam Bay icon, Hideaway is the place to stay for keen surfers, yogis, couples and families. Seven stylish bedrooms and nine tile-roofed bungalows sit in leafy grounds, across the road from the bay's golden beach. Sip cocktails, or unwind at the pool & yoga shala. A brilliant east coast escape.

• Yoga - The open-sided shala is a wonderfully restful space for daily airo, yin and vinyasa classes, as well as transformative retreats
• Surfing - Expect some of the island's best surf from May to September at Whiskey Point, Peanut Farm, Pottuvil Point and other top breaks
• Active Holiday - A wonderful choice for a surf and yoga break, with daily classes and world-class breaks for guests of all ages to enjoy
• Hideaway - A beautiful, restful retreat — choose a bungalow tucked further from the restaurant for a tranquil, romantic escape

Hiriketiya (Sri Lanka)

A sociable seaside spot famed for its live music nights and great vibes. Simple, airy guest rooms have cosy beds and private terraces; budget dorms are also an option. A jungle-fringed swimming pool, games room, buzzy bar and eatery complete the picture. Just steps from the sands of Hiriketiya Bay.

• Groups - A lively spot for groups of friends who can book double or dorm rooms and dance the night away
• Close to nightlife - Dots Bay House hosts regular live music evenings and DJ nights, and will delight partygoers
• Value chic - A great value choice for surf breaks, lively evenings out and a friendly, welcoming vibe
• Birdwatching - Spend the day at the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, spotting endemic birds as you raft through the wetlands

Beruwala (Bandarawatta)

A beautifully designed beach house, ideal for a laid-back homestay with a fascinating family and a great eco vibe. Rooms are bright and spacious with whitewashed walls, high ceilings and linen-draped four-posters. Just steps from the beach and topped with delicious food - this is an unbeatable stay!

• Romantic Break - A romantic beach side stay ideal for unwinding with your significant other
• Great walks - Tour the gorgeous gardens of Lunuganga, previously the home of famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa
• Sights nearby - Wake up early to see the fishermen bringing the morning’s catch to the nearby market
• Restaurant

Udawalawa (Udawalawe)

A rustic off-grid escape for laid-back nature enthusiasts close to Udawalawe National Park in south-eastern Sri Lanka. Quirky individual lodges overlook a tranquil lake, and guests are invited to savour Sri Lankan cuisine after boat trips, river swims and wildlife-spotting excursions. A delight.

• Eco break - Rustic lodges of mortar & recycled materials exemplify the camp's eco ethos - this is a real eco break with no hot water or A/C
• Hotel boats for hire - Speak to the team about a lake tour with local fishermen, spotting birds & buffalo, and marvelling at enormous banyan trees
• Safari - Early morning or evening safaris at Udawalawe National Park are brilliant for admiring wild elephants
• Great walks - Hop in the camp's jeep to a quiet part of the rivers for scenic walks, swims and a lunchtine picnic

Colombo

A slick city hotel priding itself on cosy comfort. Smart rooms offer big inviting beds and plenty of light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop pool lends striking views over the Indian Ocean. Well-located for discovering the sights of Colombo.

• Sights nearby - Explore the historic districts of Fort and Pettah, and savour the street food snacks of Galle Face at sunset
• Business meetings - Well equipped for meetings, and with rooms featuring desks & good wifi, ideal for business travellers
• Value chic - A slick, affordable city hotel decorated in a simple contemporary style with striking sea views
• Other Activities - Pop to the legendary Barefoot Gallery & Café for handloom shopping or Sunday afternoon jazz

Trincomalee (Nilaveli)

An east coast beach escape with a funky French twist. Bright contemporary rooms feature four-posters, wooden floors, private terraces and indulgent bathrooms. Expect thoughtful touches, delicious food, warm hospitality and a magical mellow vibe!

• Romantic Break - A relaxed beach hotel, ideal for unwinding with your significant other
• Beach Life - Located right on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach
• Sights nearby - Spend a few hours in nearby Trincomalee, exploring the ruins of the Fort, and visiting Koneswaram Kovil
• Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A simple five-bedroom retreat on one acre of sandy gardens bordering Kalpitiya Lagoon. Think thatched cabanas with mosquito net-topped beds, outdoor bathrooms for showers under the stars & a refreshing swimming pool. The seaside yoga shala & wellness-focused cuisine add to the tranquil appeal.

• Yoga - Yoga offerings include vinyasa flow and yin yoga, with regular classes held in the lagoon-front shala
• Value chic - Intimate, affordable and understated, with just five cabanas, big breakfasts & cosy shared spaces
• Total relaxation - A simple retreat with a wellness focus, yoga classes & a relaxing swimming pool
• Kayaking - Borrow kayaks and paddle boards to glide across the waters of the lagoon

Kandy (Sri Lanka)

A collection of simple, contemporary chalets, cottages & villas on the edge of the award-winning Victoria Golf Course. Groups of friends & families can pile in to airy spaces with private terraces & lush garden views. A swimming pool & restaurant complete the picture. Great value

• Active Holiday - Active travellers will adore the chance to play golf & tennis, to hike in the Knuckles & kayak on Victoria Lake
• Golf - Play a round or two on the award-winning Donald Steel-designed golf course which surrounds the hotel
• Value chic - A splendid retreat in a stunning rural setting, boasting fantastic views at reasonable rates
• Tennis - Challenge the whole family to a game on the hotel's tennis court

Colombo (Marine Drive)

A striking sea-facing hotel on Marine Drive. Understated Japanese design meets modern minimalism in stylish rooms with big beds, sink-into tubs & expansive views. Minori Japanese Restaurant is popular for its cuisine & cocktails, and the rooftop pool a is terrific sunset spot. Superb value too.

• Romantic Break - Romantic guest rooms with big sink-into tubs, a chic Japanese restaurant & great cocktails make this a great choice for couples
• City Style - A swish city hotel in a sleek high-rise overlooking the Indian Ocean, with smart, minimalist Japanese interiors
• Local markets - Fill your bags with fresh produce at Kollupitiya Market, buy stacks of spices in Pettah or crafts at the Saturday Good Market
• Great walks - Head along the coast to Galle Face, a seaside promenade ideal for late afternoon strolls, street snacks & people watching

Jaffna

Calm and serenity in a traditional property in the centre of Jaffna. The four cosy bedrooms are simple and stylish with dark wooden furniture and crisp white linen. A tropical garden houses a neat swimming pool. Expect warm hospitality and a superb location from which to explore the area.

• Groups - With just four rooms this is the ideal place to rent for groups or large families
• Local exploring - Well positioned in a quiet spot with easy access to the city's main attractions
• Sights nearby - Explore Jaffna town on foot or by three-wheeler: visit Jaffna Public Library, see the clock tower and wander around the market
• Sailing - Catch the ferry from the causeway to nearby islands Nagadipa and Delft, home to wild ponies and the remnants of a fort

Unawatuna (Sri Lanka)

A lush hideaway offering affordable guest rooms in pretty, orange-tiled buildings set within leafy gardens. Simple, spacious options with high ceilings, mezzanines & polished concrete bathrooms suit couples, friends & families. The swimming pool & gardens are fabulous, and yoga is just a walk away.

• Back to Nature - Surrounded by paddy fields and lush gardens, this is an idyllic retreat within easy reach of the action
• Value chic - A great value spot with a big swimming pool, friendly team & charming, comfortable rooms
• Cycling - Book a cycle ride with Idle Bikes to explore Unawatuna and Mihiripenna on two wheels
• Surfing - The beaches of Dewata, Ahangam and Kabalana await, perfect for keen surfers and eager beginners

Weligama (Sri Lanka)

A simple collection of 10 guest rooms set within leafy gardens on a hill near Weligama. Expect comfortable spaces with cosy beds, wooden desks, cane lampshades & warm colours. Friendly hosts, a stunning hilltop infinity pool and delicious Sri Lankan fare complete the picture. Very relaxed.

• Country Escape - A tranquil spot on a hilltop near Weligama — close enough to surf spots yet promising a refreshing sense of calm
• Surfing - Weligama Bay is brilliant for beginner surfers, with regular small waves, board hire & friendly instructors
• Local markets - Hire scooters and zip into town to visit bustling Weligama market, or the growing number of boutiques
• Value chic - A simple, affordable spot with a fabulous pool, comfortable guest rooms & verdant vistas

Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens)

Brimming with his iconic style, De Saram House was created by acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa in the 1980s. Characterful guest rooms & cosy nooks with terracotta or polished concrete floors feature handloom textiles, wooden antiques & views to landscaped gardens. A design-led haven.

• Architectural - Designed by acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, famed for his tropical modernist style & revamped by Amila de Mel
• Local exploring - A beautiful Bawa-designed hotel in upmarket Cinnamon Gardens, close to boutiques, galleries, cafes & restaurants
• Romantic Break - A romantic, adults-only spot for fans of modernist architecture & interiors, with private spaces galore
• Local markets - The Saturday Good Market, on the edge of Colombo Racecourse, is brilliant for crafts, clothing & organic snacks

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

Luxurious tented beach accommodation specialising in dolphin trips and water sports. Nine eclectic tents are dotted around luscious grounds and there are plenty of chic, shady lounge areas to relax. There is a tasty Sri Lankan à la carte menu but chef Nalin is happy to take requests.

• Safari - Wilpattu National Park is famed for its leopards and birds - early morning or afternoon safaris come highly recommended!
• Families - Family suites, lots of activities, children's menus, plus plenty of gardens and a whole beach to run around
• Watersports - One of the most striking kite surfing spots in the world, with a wonderfully breezy lagoon
• Active Holiday - Kite surfing, water sports and dolphin trips - something for everyone

Jaffna (Sri Lanka )

A modern city hotel in the heart of Jaffna — ideal for those eager to rest in contemporary comfort whilst exploring the fascinating northern tip of the teardrop island.

• City Style - One of Jaffna's smartest hotels, with contemporary interiors, city views & a popular rooftop terrace
• Cycling - Borrow one of the hotel’s free bicycles to pedal through Jaffna’s quiet leafy streets
• Local exploring - Perfectly placed for exploring the heart of Jaffna on foot or by bicycle
• Sights nearby - The Fort to the Public Library are nearby; the Keerimalai Hot Springs & Point Pedro a short drive away

Sigiriya (Sri Lanka)

Airy guest rooms are set within leafy grounds at this simple Sigiriya spot. Expect high ceilings, draped four-poster beds, polished wooden floors & verdant views. The restaurant-bar, outdoor pool, and games room with billiards & table tennis add to the easygoing atmosphere. Appealingly affordable.

• Groups - Groups will appreciate the swimming pool, table tennis court & billiards table — fun for relaxed evenings
• Sights nearby - The hotel organises a regular shuttle service to iconic Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temples
• Value chic - A simple, well-priced hotel for those looking to explore the Sigiriya area
• Great walks - Clamber up striking Pidurangala Rock, 6.5km away, for dazzling views of Sigiriya without the crowds

Hiriketiya

Undoubtedly the top spot to stay in hip Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka’s latest southern surf haven. With a simple contemporary style, jungle-view yoga and pool-side cocktails beneath the palms, Salt has laid-back boutique bliss nailed.

• Yoga - Enjoy complementary morning and afternoon yoga classes in the treetop shala, with monkey and birds just moments away
• Beach Life - With beach lounging, surfing and yoga, this is a blissful beach break for sandy-toed holidaymakers
• Surfing - Borrow complimentary boards to surf the waves at gorgeous Hiriketiya Bay, a short walk from Salt
• Groups - Book the two-bedroom suite if travelling with friends and family, or the four-bed dorm

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A lively kite surfers' haven, with whitewashed, minimalist cabanas set in lush gardens on the Kalpitiya Peninsula. Rascals Kite School has a superb reputation — and the post-kite vibes to match. Expect fresh sourdough pizzas & cold beers in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Fantastic.

• Great walks - Guided walking tours with AJ, the resident naturalist, are fascinating & a perfect way to discover Sri Lanka's lush vegetation
• Active Holiday - Perfect for keen kite surfers — beginners or more experienced — to hone their skills in a friendly & lively setting
• Watersports - The onsite Rascals Kite School offers fun, highly regarded kite surfing lessons and equipment
• Eco break - Focus on community development projects, using natural materials & minimalising waste

Ahangama (Southern Province)

A gorgeous 1950s villa framed by swaying palm trees & grassy gardens with a swimming pool in buzzy Ahangama. Four whitewashed bedrooms have wrought-iron four-posters, indoor-outdoor bathrooms & thoughtful touches. Hearty breakfasts are served each morning. A boutique gem.

• Groups - Book all four bedrooms for a great group holiday, with a big swimming pool and gardens for relaxing together
• Romantic Break - Big double bedrooms are perfect for romantic breaks, as are the restorative massages
• Surfing - Hire a board and surf at the nearby breaks of Ahangama, Midigama and Kabalana, all just minutes away
• Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool

Ahangama (Southern Province)

A gorgeous hideaway in lively Ahangama, with three guest rooms set in a restored villa, and one garden studio. Thoughtfully curated spaces feature artisanal pottery, rattan lampshades & potted palms, all reflecting the mellow ethos of this charming little hotel, to which guests return again & again.

• Surfing - Hone your surf skills on the beginner breaks of Weligama Bay, or ride the waves at Kabalana, Sticks or Marshmallow surf points
• Art Classes - Get creative with painting, drawing or pottery-making at fabulous artists' workshops held at The Kip throughout the year
• Hideaway - A little slice of calm surrounded by leafy gardens & the scent of sandalwood, all within easy reach of the beach
• Romantic Break - Intimate & romantic, guest rooms invite couples to unwind in blissful tranquility with long garden breakfasts

Kandy (Sri Lanka)

Villa Rosa is one of Kandy’s hidden gems. A green oasis of calm perched 600m above sea level. Colonial styled rooms feature beamed ceilings, dark antique furniture, elegant four poster beds and warm hues. Feast on exemplary traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The ideal spot to completely unwind.

• Cooking classes - Cooking classes can be arranged & guests are welcome to chat to chefs in the kitchen as curries are prepared in the evening
• Value chic - A friendly, reasonably priced choice for solo travellers, friends & families seeking warm, authentic hospitality
• Hideaway - A tranquil retreat on the edge of Kandy, boasting stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• Great walks - The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are brilliant for tranquil strolls amidst leafy flora

Mihiripenna (Sri Lanka)

Tucked along a little lane in Mihiripenna, this relaxed, family-friendly spot offers three simple, spacious suites set around a big swimming pool. Expect private kitchenettes, seating areas & terraces, as well as a communal dining pavilion for breakfasts of fresh fruit & Sri Lankan specialities.

• Snorkelling - Take little ones snorkelling at Dalawella Beach, where the tranquil lagoon is home to gliding turtles and little fish in season
• Cycling - Idle Bikes offer superb guided cycle rides of the area's little lanes, winding between paddy fields and houses
• Value chic - A well-priced choice with the option to self-cater in large suites, plus a friendly team who host & can cook
• Groups - Book all three suites for a fantastic holiday with friends and family — the big central pool is great fun

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Kalpitiya)

A collection of cabanas and villas metres from the beach. Rooms are decorated with bright, pop colours, a sit out terrace and huge outdoor showers (in some a bath). The restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and fresh seafood. There is a pool and spa. This is barefoot luxury at a reasonable price.

• Beach Life - Some of the cabanas are so close to the water if they were any closer you'd get swept away with the tide.
• Romantic Break - The four poster beds, private cabanas and sunsets make this a perfect romantic stay.
• Families - Kids are well looked after here with plenty of on site activities and private beach
• Cooking classes - Organise a cooking class with the chef and learn how to make some traditional Sri Lanka 'hoppers'.