The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
J Hostel Kandy is a quiet and secluded hostel in the hills that is still an easy walk from the main town. The owners are lovely and it will feel similar to a homestay. It's also a very small hostel, so it's likely that you'll meet everyone staying. A Sri Lankan breakfast is available for an extra price; this isn't spectacular, but the setting overlooking the hills and the single table on which it's served provide the perfect opportunity for travelers to chat and make plans.
The Location
It's definitely possible to walk from the bus station, as long as your bag isn't too heavy and you don't mind a bit of a climb. Next to the bus station there is a busy junction with a very large sitting Buddha next to it. Walk to this Buddha and go up the road that leads up the right side of it. After a hundred meters, you will see a right turn near a sport stadium. Turn right here and take the road that runs parallel to the sports stadium. Just past the stadium, there will be a small, steep lane on your right with a sign to the hostel. The hostel is located twenty meters up this lane.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Strangely, the dorms are not located in the same place as the common area/main house. These are a thirty-second walk away down some steps to the road outside. Consequently, security is an issue as it's quite easy for someone to walk into the dorms from the road. However, it is a very quiet road, CCTV is present and small lockers are available; just be careful with your belongings. The beds are comfy and there's a large ceiling fan to keep you cool. Clean en suite bathrooms are present and these have electric showers. Wi-Fi is available, but only until 10 p.m. in the common area, and after 10 p.m. in the dorms.
Common Spaces
This is why you choose this hostel, as you'll feel like a guest in a Sri Lankan home. The family here is lovely and they put on a nice Sri Lankan breakfast out in the garden each morning for a small price. We recommend you do this as it's a great way to meet other guests and chat with the family. It's also a beautiful place to chill out, up in the hills, overlooking the city.
Summary
This is a quirky little place run by a very welcoming family. You'll definitely get a slightly older traveler staying, and you'll get a good feel for everyday Sri Lankan life here. It's clean and comfortable and a breath of fresh air from the busy streets of Kandy.
Photos taken by the Hostelz.com reviewer — Genuine photos you can trust.
Chris
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on Nov 3, 2018
Location and Contact
Location
• Bandaranaike International Airport is 84 km from the property. J hostel kandy offer Free shuttle service from Kandy Railway and Bus Station are available. The property is located only 0.4 km from Kandy Railway Station and Kandy Bus Station. • (* directions- kandy railway station > ahalepolakumarihami mawatha > bogambara > J hostel kandy )