One of the most incredible spots for adventurers in South East Asia, Cambodia is sure to cast a spell on you. It’s home to arguably the top tourist destination in the world, but make sure that your itinerary has space on it for more than just Angkor Wat! After all, you’ll also travel along roads lined by stunning rice paddies, go snorkelling and diving on tropical islands, and meet some of the world’s friendliest and most welcoming hosts!
And the best bit? Cambodia is a very cheap country to travel to! So, if you wanted, you could stay in a pretty decent hotel each night and still have a fancy holiday. The hostel network here plays a great game. You’ll save money, make friends, and stay in what can definitely be described as luxury if you choose the right place!
With all that in mind, we’ve decided to help you out. We’ve put a list together of the best hostels in Cambodia, taking into account your itinerary, travel style, but most importantly of all – budget! And we’ve cast our net much further than Siem Reap and Phnom Penh too.
With the help of a list curated by our expert travel writers, you’re guaranteed to have incredible accommodation every night of your Cambodia vacation. So, take a deep breath and dive into the best hostels in Cambodia!
Quick Answer: What are the Best Hostels in Cambodia?
- The Best Hostels in Siem Reap
- The Best Hostels in Phnom Penh
- The Best Hostels in Sihanoukville
- The Best Hostels in Kampot
- The Best Hostels in Koh Rong
- The Best Hostels in Battambang
- The Best Hostels in Banlung
- The Top Hostels in Cambodia
- The Best Hostels in Siem Reap
- The Best Hostels in Phnom Penh
- The Best Hostels in Sihanoukville
- The Best Hostels in Kampot
- The Best Hostels in Koh Rong
- The Best Hostels in Battambang
- The Best Hostels in Banlung
- Before You Book Your Hostel in Cambodia
- What to Pack for your Cambodian Hostel
- Buy Us a Coffee!
The Top Hostels in Cambodia
In our first section, we’ll introduce you to the overall best hostels in Cambodia. After that, we’ll start breaking it down by the coolest areas and destinations in Cambodia to stay.
These three hostels all have the X factor and offer something you won’t get anywhere else. They’re not just places to stay the night, they also will be your home away from home. Let’s check them out!
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Onederz Hostel Siem Reap – The Overall Best Hostel in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Let’s kick off our list of the best hostels in Cambodia with the worldwide large hostel runner up for 2024. You don’t just have to take our word for it that this is an awesome place to stay. There are 2, yes 2, swimming pools which regularly host pool parties. When it comes to food, you don’t even have to leave – there are a bar and cafe on site serving delicious local dishes. However, when you do want to leave, most of Siem Reap’s top attractions are right on the doorstep of this vibrant centrally-located neighborhood. No matter your travel style, you’re sure to love this Cambodian hostel!
Mad Monkey Siem Reap – Best Party Hostel in Siem Reap, Cambodia
The two hostels we’ve already shown you are lively, yes, but Mad Monkey takes it to another level! It’s definitely the best party hostel in Cambodia. There are nightly events which may have anything from beer pong to free shots, to dancing on the table. And the fun doesn’t just stop at the hostel – the bar crawl continues at Pub Street, which is just a 5-minute walk. The day after, you’ll probably be feeling a little fragile. No problem, just head to the rooftop restaurant where you can soak up the hangover with Khmer and Western dishes! Backpackers in Cambodia who want a wild night out shouldn’t even consider anywhere but the Mad Monkey.
Funky Flashpacker Siem Reap – Best Cheap Hostel in Siem Reap, Cambodia
You’d probably think that if you’re looking at a cheap hostel in Cambodia, you’ll get the bare minimum. Think a bed, shared bathroom, and maybe Wi-Fi if you’re lucky. Not here at Funky Flashpacker though! In return for a very tiny sum indeed, you’re welcome to take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or watch a game of volleyball from the beanbags surrounding it, catch a movie in the cinema room, or take part in one of the nightly parties and events. With the money you are saving on your room for the night, splash out on traditional Khmer food at the 24-hour kitchen!
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View on Osprey View on REIYes, we know. Our favorite hostels in Cambodia were all just located in Siem Reap… but that tells you something right? Siem Reap is the hottest destination in Cambodia, and for good reasons. There’s so much stuff to see and do on a trip to Siem Reap, and its hostel game is strong!
From party hostels, to chill spots, to a place to work, you’ll have no trouble finding a great hostel here and experience the hostel life. Oh, and we should probably mention that it’s the gateway to Angkor Wat too!
Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap
One of the best hostels in Cambodia for digital nomads
This isn’t just one of the best hostels in Cambodia for digital nomads, but they’ll certainly love it thanks to its co-working space and rapid Wi-Fi. Winner of the best hostel in Cambodia for two years in a row, this place is absolutely packed with cool stuff. Chill out and have a few drinks at the swim-up pool bar, or take part in cool daily events like pub crawls, pool parties, and tours to nearby attractions. Also, Lub D is HUGE! So, if you’re travelling solo there are plenty of friends to make!
One Stop Hostel Siem Reap @ Pub Street
The top hostel in Siem Reap
In a city with so many great places to stay, it’s hard to pick out the best hostel in Siem Reap. However, if you choose to stay at One-Stop, you won’t be disappointed. First, the location is ideal. It’s right on Pub Street, so it’s great if you want to be involved in the nightlife but actually want to get a good night’s sleep when you eventually call it a night. After all, you don’t want to be drunk when heading to catch the sunrise at Angkor… although, who knows, maybe you do! Also, there’s a huge common area so it’s easy to meet fellow travellers if you’re travelling solo!
The Hideout
A top cheap Cambodian hostel
If you prefer to spend your money on experiences, you may want to cut costs on accommodation. You probably just shouldn’t expect all these great features that some of the other hostels offer. The good thing with The Hideout though is that there’s a lot of free stuff included like breakfast, beers, shots and loads more. You can leave your wallet safely tucked away in your backpack and have a fun-packed day at your hostel. However, we’d recommend having a few riels in your pocket for food during the day otherwise you’ll be hammered!
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and has risen from the ashes of the war and revolution. Nowadays, there’s a lot to do here. You’re likely to enjoy walking along the riverfront, which is chock full of restaurants, bars, and cool places to hang out.
You can learn more about history and culture and the National Museum, Royal Palace, and Silver Pagoda! However, knowing where to stay in Phnom Penh is very important, and choosing the right hostel that suits you is equally important.
Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
A legendary Cambodia party hostel
It’s entirely possible you’ll spend your whole Cambodia trip bouncing around Mad Monkey Hostels, and if that’s the case, pack an extra liver. Maybe that’s an exaggeration, but the drinks are always flowing here. Whether that’s just on a normal day at the bar or during one of this place’s legendary beer pong tournaments. Happily, it’s not all about drinking yourself silly at the Mad Monkey. If you need a day off the booze, get up early and take part in a yoga class. You’re sure to feel refreshed and ready to get on it again!
Envoy Hostel Phnom Penh
Top choice for a hostel in Cambodia’s capital city
One of the best hostels in Cambodia, Envoy, is a luxurious option in the capital Phnom Penh. Set in the expat area of the city, it’s a safe neighbourhood yet it’s still close to the tourist attractions. Not that you’ll want to leave though! In Envoy, you can chill with new friends or a book in the green courtyard. Prefer to top up your tan? Head up to the rooftop terrace and lie back! Hungry? Whip something up in the fully equipped kitchen. This Cambodian hostel is made by travellers for travellers – and their knowledgable staff can help you with the next leg of your trip.
Lovely Jubbly Villa
A top cheap hostel in Phnom Penh
You might do a double-take at the name lovely jubbly, but clearly there are some British comedy fans in Cambodia! And they’ve created this crazy cool hostel in Phnom Penh that’ll give you a break from the east. This western style hostel might just be the break you need to rest up, recuperate, and enjoy some home comforts. With other travellers, you’ll be able to have a few games of pool or play basketball in the swimming pool. This Khmer run hostel has a reputation for being friendly, and the staff speak excellent English.
If you’re travelling to Cambodia’s lush and tropical southern islands, you’re likely to stop in the beautiful area of Sihanoukville. The gateway to said islands isn’t exactly pretty, but its close-by beaches are perfect for properly chilling out and relaxing before moving on to your next destination. We’ve included some properties in the nearby islands… because why not?!
Onederz Sihanoukville
A top hostel in Sihanoukville for solo travellers
If you were paying attention earlier, Onederz probably rings a bell! The Siem Reap version won our best overall hostel in Cambodia, and this offering is one of the best hostels in Sihanoukville! It’s in the coolest area in town – near Serendipity Beach. If you’re wondering why that’s so great, it’s because most of the restaurants and bars in town are there. Also, it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from the ferries to the nearby islands. So, if you’re only in Sihanoukville for a quick one night stop, this is the place for you!
The Last Point
An escape from the hustle and bustle of Cambodia
And now for something completely different… So far, we’ve looked at the best hostels in Cambodia’s cities, but The Last Point is a bit of an escape from the beaten track. On Koh Ta Kiev, this is the perfect place to recharge and recuperate, and spend some time on a white sand beach of course. It’s not the easiest to get to, but happily, the hostel does offer a transfer service from Ream beach each day. It’s worth the tricky journey for the peace and tranquillity here!
Wish You Were Here… Backpackers Bar Restaurant
One of the coolest cheap hostels in Cambodia
Want some beach time? Otres Beach is right up there with the best beaches in Sihanoukville, and Wish You Were Here is at the centre of the action. And don’t be fooled by that cheap price – you still get a lot of bang for your buck! It’s worth trying to stay here on a weekend when you can make the most of Sunday sessions – live music from local musicians. Pick up some cheap beers and lose yourself in the chilled out vibes. British travellers will be happy to know that there’s a Monday Roast here – perfect if you’re missing home!
Full of shophouse and French architecture, charming Kampot is picturesque and dreamy. It really is like stepping into the past! Nature lovers can use pretty Kampot as a base for the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park. In its cool forests, you’ve got the chance of seeing elusive wildlife such as big cats and gibbons.
Monkey Republic
A great Cambodian hostel for solo travellers
It would be a stretch to call Monkey Republic a party hostel, but that fun, friendly and sociable atmosphere makes it one of the best hostels for solo travellers in Cambodia. In the centre of Kampot, it’s pretty easy to get around and find nearby restaurants, pubs, and things to do – but who says you need to leave your hostel for that?! The on-site bar and restaurant serves typical Khmer favourites, and even hosts a pub quiz!
Kool Kampot
Up there with the most romantic hostels in Cambodia
Cool Kampot is a world away from the party hostels of Siem Reap, but it’s still one of the best hostels in Cambodia. This is a great spot if you’re travelling with the other half, as it’s in a very romantic setting! This homely hostel boasts reasonably priced private rooms, which you can retire to after enjoying the views of the sunset, surrounding mountains, and river. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from lots of restaurants and bars too!
High Tide Kampot
A cheap chillout hostel in Cambodia
If you really want to immerse yourself in nature in Kampot, then this cheap hostel is a great place to do so. There are a number of room options too – with large dormitories, to family rooms and single tents. So, groups of friends, families, and solo travellers can all mix at this awesome place. If you’re worried it’ll be a bit too quiet, no need to. Sometimes there’s a DJ playing here, and the chill atmosphere means you won’t have any trouble meeting-and-greet while living in this hostel!
If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Koh Rong is the dreamy island spot for you. While you can get lost in dense jungle or feel the sand between your toes on a white sand beach, all it takes is a trip to Police Beach to find a party like you’ve never experienced before!
Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem
The top hostel in Koh Rong
Another Onederz hostel taking the prize for the top hostel in a Cambodian city?! You better believe it! Well, this time it’s an island rather than a city. But you catch our drift! Onederz is right on the beachfront, so you can be topping up your tan about 5 minutes after you wake up. When you get hungry, food is on offer here throughout the day at the restaurant which serves delicious local dishes.
Old Souls
One of the best places to disconnect in Cambodia
If you’re looking to get away from it all, Old Souls must be your first port of call when you travel to Koh Rong. If you want to be posting shots on Instagram of how great a time you’re having and keeping in touch with friends and family back home, this place is not for you. However, if you want to have a digital detox and have an authentic Cambodian experience, don’t hesitate to book here!
Mad Monkey Koh Rong
Another link in the chain of Cambodia’s best party hostels
It may be another great Cambodia party hostel, but Mad Monkey’s Koh Rong offering still fits in with the island vibe! Although there are cool nightly events, you might be focusing more on meeting new travellers than just downing copious shots! For socially conscious travellers, this hostel offers beach cleanups, so you can find some really meaningful activities here too!
Said to be what Siem Reap was like before the boom in tourism, Battambang is a chance to backpack off the beaten path in Cambodia. Explore the colonial buildings in this northwestern town, before heading a little off the beaten track for a natural phenomenon at the Battambang Bat Cave. Nearby mountain a sacred mountain is also home to the Killing Caves – a sobering experience.
The Place Hostel & Rooftop Bar
A lively hostel in Battambang
Backpackers in Cambodia who don’t want a party hostel but still would like a social experience will be chuffed to bits with The Place Hostel & Rooftop Bar. Said rooftop bar is a green oasis, and you can enjoy Cambodian iced coffee or a tasty cocktail. Depending on the time of day, we suppose! And if you’re unsure of how to get to the cool attractions nearby, don’t be. There’s a tour desk that’ll help you find your way around here.
Pomme
The best place to stay in Battambang
For those travelling to Battambang, you’re sure to love Pomme. Doesn’t that mean Apple, we hear you say? Yes, but that’s not really important. What is important is that this place is right in the centre of town – just a stone’s throw away from P’Sar Nut. You’ve also got the night markets within walking distance. Back in the hostel, enjoy traditional Khmer dishes in the company of fellow travellers as you play board games or listen to someone playing the piano. You might even have a go yourself.
Here Be Dragons
A great cheap Cambodian hostel
If you take the name literally and arrive expecting dragons, you’ll be disappointed. However, the chilled out vibes of this dirt-cheap hostel in Battambang will turn that frown upside down! There are a whole host of places that you can meet other travellers and swap stories here – including a rooftop terrace, a sociable bar, and a tropical garden. If you need a bit of a push to get talking, just sign up to one of the events that happen regularly here.
The last spot on our list in Cambodia, Banlung is the gateway to Ratanakiri national park. However, you don’t have to leave the town to find something interesting. You can learn more about indigenous cultures from the surrounding villages in the city market!
Tree Trails Travel Lodge
A Cambodian hostel with awesome views
To get away from it all, Banlung is another great place to go to. It’s worlds away from the bright lights of Phnom Penh and touristic attraction in Siem Reap, and that’s probably right up the street of some travellers! Tree Trails Travel lodge will help you not only enjoy Banlung, but the surrounding area too. Their tours include treks, visitors to tribal villages, and wildlife watching. What more could you want?! Well, since you ask, a vegetarian kitchen. Oh wait, they’ve got one of those too!
Garden View Lodge
Nice quiet Cambodian hostel for the introverted traveller
Let’s end our list of the best hostels in Cambodia with the awesome Garden View Lodge. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Banlung’s famous night market, so you can pick up souvenirs and enjoy some tasty and cheap street food. Some of the rooms here come with private balconies where you can indulge in a bit of me-time with your favourite book or simply just watch the stunning sunset!
Banlung Reggae Homestay #2
A cheap Cambodian homestay style hostel
Another awesome option if you’re travelling to Banlung is this budget option near Yeak Laom Lake. Even though it’s off the beaten track, you can still keep in touch with friends and family, as there’s Wi-Fi here. Want to get to know more about the local area? That shouldn’t be a problem. There are trekking tours at the property, while you can also rent cars, motorcycles, and bikes!
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Hide Yo’ Money!Before You Book Your Hostel in Cambodia
So, now you’ve seen all of our favourite Cambodian hostels, there are just a few more details to iron out to help you make the most of your trip.
- Currency – the local currency is the riel. USD1 = 4,075 riel.
- Language – the official language in Cambodia is Khmer
- Religion – Buddhism is the official religion of Cambodia with 97% of the population following Buddhism.
- Visa – Tourists can purchase a tourist visa that’s valid for one month upon arrival.
Map of Where to Stay in Cambodia
What to Pack for your Cambodian Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why You Should Travel to Cambodia
There you have it! We’ve taken an in-depth look at 24 of the best hostels in Cambodia, and we’re sure that you’ll agree there’s a lot to choose from! Our travel writers have left no stone unturned in the process of finding the best places to stay throughout the country, and putting together the most comprehensive guide to Cambodian hostels.
So, whether you want to party the night away in Siem Reap, immerse yourself in the charms of up and coming to Battambang, or find your quiet spot on tropical Koh Rong, there’s a Cambodian hostel for you!
Still not sure where to stay? Then go for our overall favourite hostel in Cambodia – Onederz Hostel Siem Reap. Not only is it highly rated, but it’s in a great location, it’s easy to make friends, and you will have plenty of money to spend on food and activities!
We hope that our list of the best hostels in Cambodia has been helpful and you’re raring to go for your trip. Be open to the local culture and to other people, and go have the time of your life!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cambodia
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Thailand for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Cambodia before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
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