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
View House Rules

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(928)
  • Value for Money
    8.0
  • Security
    8.6
  • Atmosphere
    8.3
  • Cleanliness
    7.4
  • Staff
    8.5
  • Location
    8.3
  • Facilities
    7.6
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.

Stayed in Oct 2026
5.1
L
Lucy
Female, 25-30, England
Ideal location to get to train station, but wouldn’t stay for any other reason. Nuwara Eliya is very cold which is not their fault, however no effort made to heat rooms and reluctant to provide extra blankets, sheets were wet to touch. Staff unhelpful, breakfast very disappointing. Tried to organise a taxi which was 4x price of PickMe despite promising it would be lower. Also many large dogs roaming free and into rooms.
Stayed in Oct 2026
10
H
Hannah
Female, 25-30, England
Really great stay at the Laughing Leopard!! The hostel rooms were clean and comfortable, curtains on all bunk beds. Staff were really friendly and helped us with all of our travel plans and activity tips! Really social hostel with an AMAZING family dinner, would recommend a stay here! Thank you
Stayed in Oct 2026
10
A
Anonymous
Female, 18-24, England
Such a great place. The staff are so friendly and fun. Social vibes with great family dinner. Simple rooms, nothing fancy.
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Location

163, Nuwara Eliya-Uda Pussellawa Road Hawa Eliya Nuwera, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
1.9km from city centre