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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!
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 difficult bit is choosing what hostel to bunk in.
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! From free wifi to room service to an in house tour desk, what you need, I’ve covered it in my guide to the best hostels in Cambodia.
I’ve put together a list of the best hostels in Cambodia, taking into account your itinerary, travel style, and most importantly of all – budget! I’ve cast my net much further than Siem Reap and Phnom Penh too.
So, take a deep breath and dive into the best hostels in Cambodia!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Cambodia
- The 3 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
- FAQs About Hostels in Cambodia
- What to Pack for your Cambodian Hostel
- Final Thoughts on Cambodia’s Hostels
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Cambodia
- Best Overall Hostel in Cambodia – Onederz Hostel Siem Reap
- Best Cheap Hostel in Cambodia – The Funky Village
- Best Party Hostel in Cambodia – Mad Monkey Siem Reap
The 3 Best Hostels in Cambodia
In our first section, I’ll introduce you to the overall best hostels in Cambodia. 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! After that, I’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. 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.
1. Onederz Hostel Siem Reap – Best Overall Hostel in Cambodia
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Private Room: From $25
- Address: Next to Angkor Night Market, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Let’s kick off the list of the best hostels in Cambodia with the Onederz Hostel Siem Reap. You don’t just have to take my word for it that this is an awesome place to stay. There are 2, yes 2, outdoor swimming pools which regularly host pool parties.
When it comes to food, you don’t even have to leave – there is 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 neighbourhood in Siem Reap. No matter your travel style, you’re sure to love this Cambodian hostel!
2. The Funky Village – Best Cheap Hostel in Cambodia
- Dorm (mixed): From $3
- Private Room: From $16
- Address: 319 Funky village, Steung thmey village, 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 free wifi if you’re lucky. Not here at The Funky Village though!
In return for a very tiny sum indeed, you’re welcome here. Feel free to take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or watch a game of volleyball from the beanbags surrounding it. Or you can catch a movie in the cinema room, or take part in one of the nightly parties and other evening entertainment.
With the money you are saving on your room for the night, splash out on traditional Khmer food at the 24-hour kitchen! This is a great place to base yourself to visit all the best places in Siem Reap.
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View on Osprey3. Mad Monkey Siem Reap – Best Party Hostel in Cambodia
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Private Room: From $25
- Address: Rose Apple Road, Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Cambodia
The two hostels I’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 five-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.
Yes, I know. My favourite 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 experiencing hostel life. Oh, and I 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
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Private Room: From $30
- Address: 7 Makara Street, Wat Bo Village Sala Kamreuk Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia
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, free wifi. 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. There are things happening like pub crawls, pool parties in the outdoor swimming pool, and tours to nearby attractions. Also, Lub D is HUGE! So, if you’re travelling solo, there are plenty of friends to make – this is one of the great hostels!
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 visit the National Museum, the Royal Palace, and the 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 Cambodian party hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $10
- Private Room: From $43
- Address: No.30-32 Street 242, Sangkat Chaktomuk, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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!
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Hide Yo’ Money!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 beaches are perfect for properly chilling and relaxing before moving on to your next destination. I’ve included some properties in the nearby islands… because why not?!
Onederz Sihanoukville
A top hostel in Sihanoukville for solo travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Private Room: From $23
- Address: Sangkat Bei, Sihanoukville, Cambodia
If you were paying attention earlier, Onederz probably rings a bell! The Siem Reap version won my 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
- Dorm (mixed): From $5
- Private Room: From $12
- Address: Koh Ta Kiev Island, Krong Preah Sihanouk, Sihanoukville, 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!
Full of shophouses 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
- Dorm (mixed): From $5
- Private Room: From $10
- Address: Street 730, Kampot, Cambodia
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 serve typical Khmer favourites, and even hosts a pub quiz. Now that’s evening entertainment!
Funky Moon Kampot
A cheap chill-out hostel in Cambodia
- Dorm (mixed): From 5
- Private Room: From $16
- Address: Plov Lum, Krong Kampot, Kampot, 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 – from large dorm rooms, to family rooms and private rooms with private bathrooms. 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 be. There are always people around, and the chill atmosphere means you won’t have any trouble meeting and greeting while living in this hostel! If you love it and never want to leave, that’s an option too, they’re always looking for volunteers.
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 a 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
- Dorm (mixed): From $11
- Private Room: From $44
- Address: Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia
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 my drift!
Onederz is right on the beachfront, so you can be topping up your tan about five 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.
Mad Monkey Koh Rong
Another link in the chain of Cambodia’s best party hostels
- Dorm (mixed): From $14
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: Long Set Beach, Koh Rong Island, Phum Daem Thkov, Koh Rong Island, Cambodia
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.
There are some great hotels in Koh Rong too, and many aren’t overly expensive either. This one is epic, but in case it’s booked, here’s one more!
The Lost Boys
One of the best places to disconnect in Cambodia
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $33
- Address: Lost Boys, Koh Touch, Koh Rong, Koh Rong Island, Cambodia
If you’re looking to get away from it all, The Lost Boys must be your first port of call when you travel to Koh Rong. If you want to be posting shots on Instagram, 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!
I mean, do I even need to say anything more with a picture like that?! Yes, you can be beachfront lounging in a hammock – all you have to do is book. With an everybody’s welcome philosophy, these guys know what’s up and meeting people is a breeze. Solo travellers, rejoice!
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
- Dorm (mixed): From $5
- Address: 53 road 3, Battambang, Battambang, Cambodia
Backpackers in Cambodia who don’t want a party hostel but still would like a social experience will be stoked 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, I 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
- Private Room: From $7
- Address: Pomme 61/63, Street 2.5, Battambang, Battambang, Cambodia
For those travelling to Battambang, you’re sure to love Pomme. Doesn’t that mean Apple, I 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 – evening entertainment sussed.
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.
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 – learn more about indigenous cultures from the surrounding villages at the city market! The options for hostels are limited here, but trust me when I say I’ve delivered you the goods.
Garden View Lodge
Nice quiet Cambodian hostel for the introverted traveller
- Dorm (mixed): From $3
- Private Room: From $4
- Address: 44ST, Phnom Svay Village, Boeng Kong Seng, Banlung, Cambodia
Just a 10-minute walk from Banlung’s famous night market, you can pick up souvenirs and enjoy some tasty and cheap street food. Some of the private rooms here come with private balconies (and private bathrooms) where you can indulge in a bit of me-time. Kick back with your favourite book or simply just watch the stunning sunset!
Map of Where to Stay in Cambodia
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Cambodia
Everyone needs good travel insurance – you never know what might happen, so be safe before you’re sorry!
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.
FAQs About Hostels 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!
Final Thoughts on Cambodia’s Hostels
So that’s my hot take on the hottest hostels in Cambodia. From the best hostels in Phnom Penh to the best hostels in Koh Rong, what could go wrong? Sorry, that was terrible.
But seriously, if you’re still on the fence about where to book to kick-start your trip in Cambodia, let me help you. I’m assuming you’re flying into Phnom Penh, in which case it makes sense to start your tour of Cambodia’s best hostels there. Mad Monkey Phnom Penh is the creme de la creme in Phnom Penh and I highly recommend you start here, even just for a couple of nights.
If you’re landing in Siem Reap, hit up Onederz Hostel Siem Reap for all your dorm rooms, private bathrooms, and outdoor swimming pool needs. If you’re heading to Angkor Wat, this is where you’ll want to be and the free wifi they offer will help you suss travel admin. There is wonderful evening entertainment at this hostel and free private parking too (for your scooter, lol!).
Wherever you stay in Cambodia, it’s hard to have a hard time so live, laugh love and get into it!
If you think I’ve missed any key factors, let a brother know, I’d love to chat in the comments and hear your yarns.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- 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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