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The Best Hostels In Phnom Penh based on a balanced scorecard of reviews.

Phnom Penh has its fair share of affordable hostels for backpackers, and travelers alike, however, we’ve been able to narrow down the top 5 based on customer and publication reviews, including those from Hostel World, Lonely Planet and TripAdvisor.

1. THE MAD MONKEY

 

1. THE MAD MONKEY

 

Established as one of the most popular and largest hostels in Phnom Pehn, The Mad Monkey is not only known for housing thousands of travelers around the world, but is also committed to serving its community, whether its donating all profitable proceeds to fund education or building water wells for Cambodia’s rural poor.
The Mad Monkey, conveniently located in the busiest city of Cambodia, seamlessly combines a modern and contemporary space with cool and relaxed vibes. The hostel, which opened back in 2011, includes an incredibly hospitable and friendly staff, an array of events and tours around the city and a vibrant nightlife.
Guests can choose to stay in either the hostel’s spacious dorm, which can sleep up to 20, or opt in for a private room. The hostel also includes two bars: one on the main level and the other on the rooftop overlooking an outstanding view of the Phnom Penh skyline.

Location: Street 242, No. 32 Phnom Penh
WEBSITE: The Mad Monkey

 

2. THE WHITE RABBIT

 

2. THE WHITE RABBIT
© Courtesy of worldbesthostels

 

This cheerful hostel’s main goal is pretty simple: meet a lot of people and make new friends. The hostel—located in the heart of Phnom Penh—is in the neighborhood known as BKK1, making it conveniently close for travelers to visit top attractions such as the National Museum and the city’s Central Market.
The hostel includes dorm-like facilities that are comfortable and clean. Depending on the traveler’s budget, guests can choose from an array of sleeping arrangements. The hostel’s air-conditioned dorms include extra-large bunk beds, high ceilings and a private balcony.
The White Rabbit also includes a full-service bar and restaurant where visitors can grab a cold Cambodian beer on tap from its fully stocked bar.  Travelers can also hang out in the lounge area, which includes a TV room, where visitors can watch television, play video games or pick a flick to watch from the hostel’s large movie collection.

Location:#40A St. 294, BKK1
WEBSITE: The White Rabbit  

 

3. VELKOMMEN BACKPAKERS

Nestled in the heart of the riverside and just a stone’s throw away from popular Phnom Penh attractions, the Velkommen Backpackers has been a favorite among tourists. The hostel has a friendly and efficient Cambodian staff who will assist you on day trips and tours around the city.
The hostel—which has recently gone through an extensive refurbishment—has come back even stronger than before. The dorm-like rooms are air-conditioned and clean. Other amenities include speedy wi-fi, free linens, towels and personal lockers. Traveler’s can also kick back in the hostel’s stylish bar while enjoying ongoing events and live music.

Location: 17 st 144 Riverside Daun Penh
WEBSITE:  Velkommen Backpacker

 

4. AURA THEMATIC HOTEL

The brand new AURA Thematic Hostel is centralized in the heart of Phnom Penh and is located right behind the Royal Palace. The hostel’s sleek and sophisticated charm aims to provide a comfortable, relaxing and unique experience.
Visitor’s can choose from individually themed dorm rooms, and enjoy a range of amenities, which includes a delicious complimentary breakfast, 24-hour reception and security. But most importantly, traveler’s can enjoy the hostel’s new Eluvium rooftop bar and lounge, which features a long list of specialty cocktails, live music and a rotation of weekly events.

Location: #205A Street 19 Daun
WEBSITE: AURA Thematic Hostel

 

5. EIGHTY8 BACKPACKERS HOSTEL

Swimming pool? Check. Rooftop with a stunning view of the city? Check. What more can you want in one hostel?!
The hostel, yes you guessed it, is located on street number 88, just off of Monivong Blvd., and is close proximity to Phnom Penh’s main attractions, such as Wat Phnom, Old Market, Mekong River and the Royal Palace.
At Eighty8 Backpackers Resort, travelers can choose from both private and dorm-room style sleeping arrangements. Dorms come with personal lockers and shared bathrooms, while the single rooms have a comfortable lounge area and personal bathroom.
The hostel prides itself on immaculate customer service and includes other amenities such as 24-hour security, laundry service and free wi-fi. There is also  a restaurant and bar where customer’s can enjoy drinks during happy hour, or indulge in delicious Western and Cambodian cuisine.

Location: Street 88, House 98
WEBSITE: Eighty8 Backpackers & Flashpackers

 

Other Great Phnom Penh Hostel Options To Check Out

Make sure to do your research! There are many other hostels in Phnom Penh that may better suite your needs, so here are some more recommendations to satisfy your traveler’s research. For more travel information check out our backpacker’s guide for traveling in Phnom Pehn.

 

The BKK 1 Backpacker District of Phnom Penh

This funky hostel and backpacker district in Phnom Penh is located near the Wat Langka Pagoda and the Independence Monument, and is considered an upscale area of the city.

 

Mini Banana

This small, intimate, low cost establishment is newly renovated and is perfect for those that are interested in a more quaint, relaxed atmosphere. Read more about it in our Guide To Phnom Penhs Best Party Hostels.

 

Top Banana

The Top Banana is considered party central for Phnom Penh’s backpacker district! It is a medium-sized hostel with a rooftop bar, and is located in the heart of the city. Read more about it in our Guide To Phnom Penhs Best Party Hostels.

Hostels located in the Riverside Area of Phnom Penh

Nearing a busier area closer to the riverfront, and right around the corner from the busy “girly bar” district, this area may be less popular with backpackers, but more popular with general tourism.

 

Camory Backpacker Hostel

The hostel is small but has excellent service and includes a free breakfast, and should be considered if you are interested in a smaller, quieter hostel setting.

 

Envoy Hostel Phnom Penh

This brand new hostel is clean and comfortable. Vistor’s can expect a friendly and inviting atmosphere with a focus on customer service.

 

One Stop Hostel

Quaint hostel with low cost rooms and clean living areas. Looking for a good nights sleep? This is the place for you.

 

Helpful Articles and Blog Posts For Places to Stay in Phnom Penh

We only recommend writers and blogs that we read regularly, and believe will deliver substantial value to our readers that are considering a trip to backpackers hostel Phnom Penh. The following is our top picks of current articles we think are worth reading about on drinking and bars in Phnom Penh. A full backpacker’s guide is also published by Mad Monkey and is available on our website.

Do you have an awesome link to a relevant well written article that should be included here? If so, hit us up on Twitter by following and messaging us the link.

 

What to Expect From Phnom Penh’s Best Hostels

 

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About the Author

Mad Monkey is Southeast Asia’s leading hostel operator — born in Cambodia with more properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Laos, and the Philippines. We pride ourselves in creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for our guests, whilst promoting socially responsible tourism.