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Reviews of Catch The Ella Train Hostel

172 pahala Iriyagama peradeniya, 20000 Kandy, Sri Lanka

#8 of 261 hotels in Kandy

Guests' Choice

Review Score

Based on 33 hostel reviews

9.1

Score breakdown

  • Cleanliness

    8.7

  • Comfort

    9.0

  • Location

    9.1

  • Facilities

    8.4

  • Staff

    9.6

  • Value for money

    9.2

  • Free Wifi

    7.5

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Showing 1 - 25

  • Reviewed: March 23, 2025

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Incredible breakfast and lovely people :)

    Stayed in February 2025

  • Reviewed: March 21, 2025

    10
    An amazing and unforgettable experience, all thanks to Asanka being a fantastic host!
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 2 nights

    We had a wonderful time at the hostel. What truly made our stay exceptional was the host, Asanka. He provided us with all the necessary information for exploring Kandy and its surroundings. Impressively, he managed to secure reserved tickets for the train to Ella, even though they were sold out at the station. Asanka’s aunt prepared breakfast for us each morning, and it was one of the best breakfasts we had in Sri Lanka. The hostel itself is quite basic but offers comfortable beds with mosquito nets and all the essentials you need. We decided to extend our stay in Kandy by an additional day, and Asanka guided us throughout the whole day. He shared insights on the history of Sri Lanka, Buddhism, and more, all in perfect English. Would definitely recommend if you want an unforgettable experience.

    Stayed in March 2025

  • Reviewed: March 3, 2025

    9.0
    Asanka is the best
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Nothing. It’s a real local experience with Asanka and is start-up hostel. A real must do if you accept basic facilities.

    Asanka is an amazing host. He is so proud of his place and Kandy and shows you around about culture and history. He also helped with getting a trainticket to Ella. It was an unforgettable experience and we laughed our asses off together. Thanks again King Asanka!

    Stayed in March 2025

  • Reviewed: March 3, 2025

    9.0
    Brilliant
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Plug sockets needed

    Nice homely vibe with great hosts and lovely breakfast

    Stayed in March 2025

  • Reviewed: January 24, 2025

    8.0
    Good location but did not live up to enthusiastic reviews
    • Leisure trip
    • Travelers with friends
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    During our stay Asanka made a few unprofessional comments and tasteless jokes. There is a gap between the wall and the roof so it’s open to outside and bugs can enter easily although we did not have major issues with this I think people should be aware. The rooms are darker in real life than in the photos. The dorm room does not have a door and just a curtain. The door to the private room that we stayed in makes a loud noise when it opens and closes and would definitely wake everyone up when coming and going to use the bathroom.

    The location was great to get out of Kandy and be close to the peradeniya train station. The king bed was large and comfortable with clean bedding and towels. The breakfast was tasty and Asanka was easy to reach via WhatsApp for planning. The hostel is in a beautiful quiet area.

    Stayed in January 2025

  • Reviewed: January 10, 2025

    10
    Best place to stay to catch the train to Ella!
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    -

    The staff! Compared to other properties in Kandy/Peradeniya this place is actually accurate. My rule of thumb when booking trough booking.com is to book accomodation with at least 8.0+ rating. Most places could have an 8+ rating, but when looking at the google reviews those places are filled with mold or have less than favourable reviews. This place is all positive. The staff will make you feel at home and they will do everything in their power to get you on the train to Ella!

    Stayed in January 2025

  • Reviewed: January 9, 2025

    9.0
    very homely typical Sri Lankan warm friendly place, very helpful in catching the train to Ella
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night

    couldnt have breakfast, on a Pilgrimage needed to make it to Church real early. very homely typical Sri Lankan warm friendly place, very helpful in catching the train to Ella

    Stayed in January 2025

  • Reviewed: December 26, 2024

    10
    This is by far one of the best experiences of my trip. Asanka the host is such a helpful and kind person. He made our vi
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Everything was perfect!

    The location, the food, the host, comfort… everything!

    Stayed in December 2024

  • Reviewed: December 15, 2024

    10
    Want to skip Kandy and get to Ella by train? This is the place for you.
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    My stay here was simply great. I mean, truth be told, the place isnt anything super special and it doesnt host a lot of people. However. The owner is an amazing human being. Takes care of you from the very start, to the very finish. Has great stories and is just all around amazing. So if you are looking for a place to stay the night before you want to get to Ella by train, and dont really care for being in the centre with alot of people, this is definitely the place for you.

    Stayed in December 2024

  • Reviewed: December 12, 2024

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Very hospitable place. Simple but proper. Asanka is a good guide to show you around in a short time, while you are in transit. Breakfast was great! Shops are quite nearby if you need water or food while arriving.

    Stayed in December 2024

  • Reviewed: December 5, 2024

    10
    Incredible Breakfast - Was an Unforgettable Stay
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 2 nights

    Incredible Sri Lankan breakfasts - the best food I've had on my trip. The hostel itself is great and surrounded by nature, offering the perfect escape from Kandy’s bustle. My bed was a very large single. What truly set this experience apart was Asanka he was an incredible host and immediately made you feel at home. He took me on a private tour of Kandy, revealing hidden gems I’d never have found on my own. His deep knowledge and genuine care made it unforgettable. If you’re seeking an authentic and memorable stay in Kandy, I couldn’t recommend this hostel and Asanka more. His kindness and attention to detail are unmatched.

    Stayed in December 2024

  • Reviewed: November 30, 2024

    10
    Outstanding
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Asanka was the most knowledgeable and accomodating host for anyone interested in a better understanding of local tradition and history. He makes it his mission to ensure everyone who comes to stay enjoys Kandy and leaves with a better understanding of the town. The traditional breakfast made by Asanka’s aunties was also outstanding.

    Stayed in November 2024

  • Reviewed: November 24, 2024

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    the outside area needs some work

    the host is like a friend, very caring and helpful, quiet and safe area, amazing breakfast

    Stayed in November 2024

  • Reviewed: October 11, 2024

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Definitely you will not regret stopping in this cozy hostel near Kandy! Although I only spent one night Asanka made me feel like home and is extremely caring about his guests (he even came to the train station because it was raining!).He is the funniest host I have had in Sri Lanka so far and he will share his knowledge of history, culture and natural remedies with pleasure. I guess that is not gonna be me to give you less than 5 stars! Stuti for everything!

    Stayed in October 2024

  • Reviewed: September 3, 2024

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Asanka (the host) was brilliant. He told us a lot about the history of Sri Lanka, the cities and Buddhism. He even gave us a tour around the city and less touristy places! 🤩 Very reliable. The food was freshly prepared and tasted amazing. Would definitely recommend it!

    Stayed in September 2024

  • Reviewed: April 26, 2024

    10
    For all the adventures people catching the Ella train and searching for a cosy and heartwarming stay.
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Asanka is probably the best host we ever had in all our adventures all over the world. We arrived late in the night and Asanka took so much time to bring us down from the daily stress before. It was such a fun evening, a mix of huge laughter, history and meeting a wonderful new person. Thanks for everything Asanka!! We will see us again 😉

    Stayed in March 2024

  • Reviewed: April 6, 2024

    10
    If this accommodation is available, I sincerely encourage booking!
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night

    Nothing.

    Proximity to Peradeniya Railway Station (500m, less than 10min walk) is beneficial for those staying for Ella train boarding. I was unable to reserve a ticket as train was fully booked, arrived at station 5min before boarding, purchased ticket and secured a seat in unreserved carriage, no problems! However, this certainty shouldn’t be the only motivation for staying. A kind greeting by the humble owner, Asanka, was a warm welcome to the property. Respectful, intelligent and intuitive host who creates and maintains a safe and comfortable environment – valued as a solo female traveller. Asanka was more than happy to share his expansive knowledge on all aspects of Sri Lanka and speaks excellent English, a fantastic opportunity to learn. Warmly decorated and well-maintained property. Spotless linen which is professionally cleaned. Large, shared bathroom was clean, towel and soap provided. Asanka also maintains a beautiful garden with various plants and fruits, lovely space to listen to the birds away from busy Kandy city. Location close to stunning Buddhist temple, local eateries, supermarket, Royal Botanical Gardens (with diverse range of flora – and gentle monkeys), hospital, university and public transport. Quick bus (or tuk tuk) ride is easy to access if needing to visit Kandy centre. However, the Peradeniya area had everything required. I was unwell upon arrival, Asanka was caring and compassionate, providing advice to access healthcare, healing medicine and drink in the morning (in addition to breakfast). Breakfast of local cuisine was delicious, cooked by his Aunties. Whilst I didn’t require dinner I noted this could be an option if required. Host made contact upon booking providing valuable advice on options for arrival and was happy answer ongoing questions after the stay. Please support Asanka and the Peradeniya area! And give the beautiful dog ‘Roy’ a big love – he visits in morning with Aunties!

    Stayed in April 2024

  • Reviewed: March 19, 2024

    8.0
    Very Good
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    The host was really nice and caring, he had many recommendations. He even showed us around the area himself and explained all the plants in his lovely little garden to us. It’s a very small comfy hostel with big plans for the future. And definitely the right address if you want to “skip” Kandy on your way to the south or north.

    Stayed in March 2024

  • Reviewed: March 11, 2024

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Host is a super friendly guy and does everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. He took me to a teafactory and offered to show me even more around. He has profound knowledge about the whole area and it was the best Sri Lankan-breakfast i had so far :) The proberty is away from the main roads so all u gonna hear are the sounds of nature. Havn't slept that good for a while ;)

    Stayed in March 2024

  • Reviewed: December 27, 2023

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 2 nights

    The breakfast is fantastic full of traditional Sri Lankan Dishes. The host is amazing and will help you organise plans for various activies you can do in the local area as well as the train journey to Ella. I unfortunately did not have time to do the tea factory tour but every guest staying there at the same time said how authentic the experience was. Overall value for money is exceptional.

    Stayed in December 2023

  • Reviewed: September 8, 2023

    10
    This place could be the best place to stay before you catch a train to Ella in/near Kandy
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night

    nothing really

    This place could be the best place to stay before you catch a train to Ella in/near Kandy. We didn't want to go through a busy, big city and make sure to get a seat on a train to Ella so we decided to book a hostel a few stops before Kandy. It was the right choice as not only we got a help to get a ticket to Ella but also we had such a great time in this hostel that we just decided to stay one more day here! People just pass by Kandy but Kandy is full of interesting and historical sites to look around! The most helpful owner I've ever met in my traveling time, not only gave us an amazing tour around Kandy but also provided us with his speciality Lankan breakfast! The toilet & shower is very cleanly maintained, and you get the nice mountain and temple view, a small front garden to sit and relax, amazing local restaurants are nearby. You can never get these good things for the price in anywhere else! If I come back to Kandy again, I would definitely stay here again! The owner was just so knowledgeable about culture / society / history and friendly with exceptional English and made us comfortable in every way. Don't hesitate to come to this place!

    Stayed in July 2023

  • Reviewed: August 20, 2023

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    The host here is amazing. You’ll hear about interesting history of Sri Lanka, show you around the brilliant town, and cooking breakfast & dinner. All of those by host!! If you are planning to come to Kandy, definitely I recommend you to stay here 🇱🇰🇯🇵

    Stayed in August 2023

  • Reviewed: July 28, 2023

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    So happy I stayed here! Asanka, the owner was super kind. As soon as I made the booking he got in touch to check if there was anything I needed including if I had a ticket for the train to Ella and if I needed help with it. I did! Within 30 mins he had gone to the train station and sorted out my ticket!!!! The house is gorgeous and surrounded by nature. Really beautiful. The new bathroom is just perfect and felt like luxury after traveling for 6 weeks. Asanka makes this place truly special and he is full of knowledge on the history of Sri Lanka which makes for fascinating stories! He also took me on a beautiful tour around the area which turned into oneof my favourite days and made Kandy super special.

    Stayed in July 2023

  • Reviewed: May 19, 2023

    10
    Free breakfast and close to train station
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Budget Double Room
    • Stayed 1 night
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    The owner is such an easy guy to get along with. He has a great sense of humor. Breakfast everyday was different and so delicious! He took me on a tour to the tea factory, an artist studio, a village, and an Ayuverdic spa. He ended our tour with a treat (baked goods and homemade biryani) when I finished my massage. He also offered to give a tour of the Buddhist temples. This hostel is extremely close to the train station and easy to access Royal Botanical Garden by bus. Even the complimentary soap here smells amazing. I really enjoyed my stay at this hostel and I've made a wonderful lifelong friend. I would recommend for solo travellers especially because of the delicious free breakfast and the activities that the host has planned.

    Stayed in May 2023

Showing 1 - 25

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