Sri Lanka Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka as a Digital Nomad

Sri Lanka, a tropical paradise with its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. With its affordable cost of living, reliable internet connectivity, and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder why many remote workers are flocking to this island nation.

As a digital nomad yourself, you’re probably wondering where to stay in Sri Lanka that suits your lifestyle and budget. Worry not, friend! In this post, we’ll dive into the best places to stay in Sri Lanka for digital nomads, from bustling cities to peaceful coastal towns.

Colombo

As the capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a hub for digital nomads. You’ll find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes with reliable internet, and a range of accommodation options to suit every budget.

  • Recommended areas: Dematagoda, Maradana, and Borella are popular neighborhoods among expats and digital nomads.
  • Accommodation: Expect to pay around $15-30 per night for a shared apartment or guesthouse. For more luxury options, you can find apartments or serviced residences for $50-100 per night.
  • Coworking spaces: Some popular coworking spaces in Colombo include:
    • Hub Colombo
    • The CoLab
    • The Hive

Galle

This charming coastal town is a favorite among digital nomads, with its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches. Galle offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.

  • Recommended areas: Fort area, Wellawaya Road, and Sri Wickrama Mawatha are popular neighborhoods.
  • Accommodation: Expect to pay around $10-25 per night for a shared room or guesthouse. For more luxurious options, you can find apartments or villas for $30-60 per night.
  • Coworking spaces: Some popular coworking spaces in Galle include:
    • The CoLab
    • Galle Cowork

Hikkaduwa

Located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a popular destination among surfers and digital nomads. This beach town offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.

  • Recommended areas: The main street, Beach Road, and Kirinda Lane are popular neighborhoods.
  • Accommodation: Expect to pay around $15-30 per night for a shared room or guesthouse. For more luxurious options, you can find apartments or villas for $40-80 per night.
  • Coworking spaces: Some popular coworking spaces in Hikkaduwa include:
    • The CoLab
    • Hikka Hub

Kandy

As the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a must-visit destination for any digital nomad. This city is home to many temples, museums, and performance arts centers.

  • Recommended areas: Peradeniya Road, Temple Trees, and Rajapihilla Mawatha are popular neighborhoods.
  • Accommodation: Expect to pay around $10-25 per night for a shared room or guesthouse. For more luxurious options, you can find apartments or serviced residences for $30-60 per night.
  • Coworking spaces: Some popular coworking spaces in Kandy include:
    • The CoLab
    • Kandy Cowork

Other destinations

While the above cities are popular among digital nomads, there are many other destinations to explore in Sri Lanka. Some honorable mentions include:

  • Nuwara Eliya: A hill station with a cool climate and stunning views.
  • Trincomalee: A coastal town with a rich history and beautiful beaches.
  • Matara: A charming town on the southern coast with a relaxed atmosphere.

Tips for digital nomads

When choosing where to stay in Sri Lanka, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Research, research, research: Look up coworking spaces, cafes with reliable internet, and accommodation options before making your decision.
  • Consider the cost of living: Sri Lanka has a relatively low cost of living, but prices can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation.
  • Be mindful of safety: As with any new place, take necessary precautions to ensure your personal safety and security.
  • Don’t forget about healthcare: Sri Lanka has a well-developed healthcare system, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is an incredible destination for digital nomads, offering a unique blend of culture, nature, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for bustling cities or peaceful coastal towns, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise. With the right research and planning, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect place to stay in Sri Lanka as a digital nomad.