Catch The Ella Train Hostel
172 pahala Iriyagama peradeniya
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Why people book this hotel
“The hospitality of our host was above and beyond”
“The host Asanka was just great”
“A lovely breakfast and dinner were offered”
“the sri lankan breakfast (made by his aunties) a 10/10 and the „off the beaten t…”
“A good mix of tourists hotspots and "off the beaten track" locations that only a…”
“Impressively, he managed to secure reserved tickets for the train to Ella, even …”
“The hostel itself is quite basic but offers comfortable beds with mosquito nets …”
“My bed was a very large single”
Overview
Located in Kandy, Catch The Ella Train Hostel is 500 metres from Peradeniya Railway Station, 1.1 km from Kandy Royal Botanic Gardens and The property is 19.1 Km to the Ambuluwawa Tower, 8.2 km from Ceylon Tea Museum, 7.9 km from Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and 10 km from Kandy Museum. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue is 7.7 km from the property. Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is 21 km from the accommodation. The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, 96 km from Catch The Ella Train Hostel
Traveller reviews
Alyssa
solo_traveller
February 4, 2026
“Basic little hostel but amazing experience and hospitality”
The hospitality of our host was above and beyond. A lovely breakfast and dinner were offered. We did the tour and it was fantastic. A good mix of tourists hotspots and "off the beaten track" locations that only a local would know about. Our host had a lot of local and historical knowledge and was very passionate and shared this with us. We would definitely recommend this tour for those who want to see a different side of Kandy. The host organised everything and made the experience very pleasant and easy for us.
Malin
solo_traveller
January 26, 2026
“Incredible and kind people making the stay one of my most memorable experiences in Sri Lanka”
The host Asanka was just great. With passion he explained so much about culture, religion, politics and so on.. the sri lankan breakfast (made by his aunties) a 10/10 and the „off the beaten tracks“ tour an absolute must. It was more like hanging out with a good friend than anything else! I will be back and i highly recommend!
Siliacus
solo_traveller
January 19, 2026
“Amazing stay!”
Best hostel in Sri Lanka! Really enjoyed my stay here. The hostel has a very authentic vibe which makes it a great experience! Asanka is a very nice and intelligent person. He knows a lot about the history of Sri Lanka and about buddhism. The off the beaten path tour was very enjoyable! Overall the vibe of Asanka and the hostel made this an unforgettable experience!
Guest
solo_traveller
August 12, 2025
“Amazing stay!”
Best hostel in Sri Lanka! Really enjoyed my stay here. The hostel has a very authentic vibe which makes it a great experience! Asanka is a very nice and intelligent person. He knows a lot about the history of Sri Lanka and about buddhism. The off the beaten path tour was very enjoyable! Overall the vibe of Asanka and the hostel made this an unforgettable experience!
Robert
couple
March 23, 2025
Incredible breakfast and lovely people :)
Robin
extended_group
March 21, 2025
“An amazing and unforgettable experience, all thanks to Asanka being a fantastic host!”
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.
Frauke
solo_traveller
March 20, 2025
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Gijs
solo_traveller
March 3, 2025
“Asanka is the best”
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!
Rory
solo_traveller
March 3, 2025
“Brilliant”
Nice homely vibe with great hosts and lovely breakfast
Dominick
solo_traveller
January 10, 2025
“Best place to stay to catch the train to Ella!”
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!
Sanjeev Anthony
solo_traveller
January 9, 2025
“very homely typical Sri Lankan warm friendly place, very helpful in catching the train to Ella”
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
Surya
family_with_children
December 26, 2024
“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”
The location, the food, the host, comfort… everything!
Henrik
solo_traveller
December 15, 2024
“Want to skip Kandy and get to Ella by train? This is the place for you.”
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.
Martijn
solo_traveller
December 12, 2024
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.
CHARLOTTE
solo_traveller
December 5, 2024
“Incredible Breakfast - Was an Unforgettable Stay”
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.
Matt
solo_traveller
November 30, 2024
“Outstanding”
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.
Alexander
solo_traveller
November 24, 2024
the host is like a friend, very caring and helpful, quiet and safe area, amazing breakfast
Núria
solo_traveller
October 11, 2024
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!
Andreo
couple
September 3, 2024
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!
Pia
couple
April 26, 2024
“For all the adventures people catching the Ella train and searching for a cosy and heartwarming stay.”
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 😉
Facilities
Activities
Bicycle rental (additional charge), Hiking, Spa facilities, Yoga classes, Walking tours, Tour or class about local culture, Cooking class
Food & Drink
Breakfast options
Internet
Internet services, WiFi, Free WiFi
Outdoors
Garden
Services
Airport shuttle, Car hire, Airport shuttle (additional charge), Grocery deliveries
Transport
Airport pick up, Airport drop off
Budget Double Room
Featuring free toiletries, this double room includes a shared bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bidet. The double room features a dining area. The unit has 1 bed.
Hotel Policies
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