About

Tucked away in the mountainous Nuwara Eliya, you'll find the most social hostel in Sri Lanka. The beds are comfy, the beer is cheap, the food is delicious and the vibe is chilled. Laughing Leopard is the perfect hostel to meet backpackers from around the world. From the minute you arrive, you'll feel part of a crazy family.

The hosts will go out of their way to provide you with an amazing experience. They'll tell you exactly what to do and where to go to make the most of your time here.

Their gorgeous dogs are excellent to cuddle with when it gets a bit chilly in the evening. On top of this, the hostel also boasts the best hot water in Sri Lanka - and it's not wrong! Trust us, you'll appreciate a hot shower when the sun goes down!

By day, you can enjoy the bright communal space and get chatting over a delicious home-cooked Sri Lankan breakfast. In the evening, unwind and feel at home with a friendly-family dinner.
By night, catch up over cards, games and a beer or two. This is the place to meet best mates looking to kick back and relax amongst Sri Lanka’s epic mountains.

***Property Policies & Conditions:
1. Cancellation policy: At least 1 day advance notice for free cancellation.
2. Check in from 14:00 to 23:00.
3. Check out before 11:00.
4. Payment upon arrival by cash and card.
5. Breakfast not included but FAMILY DINNER IS FREE.
6. Reception working 24 hours.
7. Smoking in outdoor areas.

House Rules

Check In

14:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 11:00

Taxes Included

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Facilities

Free Parking
Free WiFi
Free Internet Access
Free Security Lockers
Free Luggage Storage
Bicycle Parking
Adaptors
Luggage Storage

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Reviews

8.1Fabulous(912)

Value for Money
7.9
Security
8.7
Atmosphere
8.5
Cleanliness
7.2
Staff
8.7
Location
8.2
Facilities
7.5

Summary of traveller reviews

Laughing Leopard in Nuwara Eliya is a highly social hostel, perfect for solo travellers and groups looking to meet new people. Guests praise the friendly staff and the delicious, inclusive family dinners. While some mention occasional issues with cleanliness and dampness, the overall vibe is positive, with many highlighting the fun atmosphere and the cute resident dogs.

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Stayed in Aug 2026

Isabella

Female, 18-24, Denmark

really amazing staff, they made us feel so comfortable and we got to learn so much about their culture in sri lanka! it felt like we were a family, especially with the free dinners included

Stayed in Aug 2026

4.6

Isabel

Couple, 18-24, England

If you are thinking of booking a private room, I wouldn’t reccomend. There were no bedsheets on the bed and we were given a blanket as a cover. Both the bedsheets and blanket were damp when we arrived. There was a sheer piece of fabric covering the one window in the room which had a lot of stains on and didn’t keep any light out. Also there is a water fountain outside the room so there is constant noise. The bathroom was always wet and full of flys when we went in there and was not clean.

Stayed in Aug 2026

8.3

Sirri

Female, 31-40, Finland

Welcoming staff and nice hostel dogs. It is close to the Lover’s Leap waterfall which can be done on the day of arrival. Family dinner was delicious, vegan friendly. Minus points for the fact that there was no soap or hot water to do the dishes after dinner, so dishes were practically just rinsed between meals.

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