Compiled by Tiffany Fan and Charlie Michio Turner
Many goods and services are cheaper in Myanmar compared to neighboring Southeast Asian countries, lodging is not one of those things. That could change, however, as more hostels pop up in Yangon offering cheap accommodation for short stays. Besides the standard youth hostel, this list highlights several other places that are bit quieter and less party-centric, closer to a Bed & Breakfast if anything. Most hostels in Yangon are in West Downtown, in the Chinatown area, but there are great spots to stay throughout the city.
Space Boutique Hostel – No(210/214), 3th Floor, Corner of 32nd Street
A few block away from Bogyoke Market sits this under-the-radar but high-quality hostel. You can get a bed in a dorm for less than 10,000 Ks, an individual room for less than 20,000 Ks (perhaps more during high season), all of which have air-con and a solid wifi connection. The only problems are with the bathrooms which are not cleaned with regularity.
Agga Youth Hotel – No.86th, 12th Street (Middle Block), Lanmadaw Township
The most popular hostel in Yangon, both a block away from each other. Large living rooms make these hostels conducive for socializing and finding travel buddies. Modern layout that is well-manicured but ultimately a backpacker destination for dorm beds around 15,000 Ks. If you don’t feel like something quieter, Agga has a Guesthouse down the street that may better fit your style.
Yangon Hub – 35, Aung Myay Thazi (1) Street, Kamayut Township
One of the best values if you don’t mind a commute to the sites. It may be a short ride from the airport but it’s 10 kms away from the downtown area with roads notorious for traffic. Luckily, they have bike rentals which are ideal transport for confident riders. You can easily find a bed for less than 10,000 Ks, but with only 8 rooms these go quick. The wifi is lightning fast compared to other hostels.
Shannkalay Hostel – No.166/168, 3rd floor, 49th Street | Botahtaung Township
One of the best overall hostels- meaning rooms are clean, affordable and follows through on amenities promised. The wifi is decent, the free breakfast is satisfying and the air-con works. Rooms are rather small and almost none of them have windows, so don’t plan on spending too much time inside. 49th Street may not be as eccentric as the other side of downtown, but it’s a quickly developing neighborhood with easy access to the famous Lucky 7 tea shop and Yangon’s favourite sports bars. The best deal for Shannkalay are their double and triple rooms which go for 24,000 Ks, a good value considering that the place is well-maintained.
Thanlwin Guest House – Y-25, Thanlwin Road Pyinnyawaddy Estate (behind Sedona), Yankin
Upscale and in-demand, Thanlwin Guest House looks like a Bed and Breakfast more so than a hostel. The cheapest option is a space in a 6-bed mixed dormitory which goes for roughly 15,000 Ks. Yankin Township may not be the best neighborhood for tourists who prefer rugged and budget activities, but the hostel is close to Inya Lake and shopping at Myanmar Plaza.
Sleep In Hostel – No 34, 9th Street | Lanmadaw Township
9th Street is far west, but this budget honest is definitely still in Chinatown. You can get a bed for 10,000 Ks, but don’t expect anything beyond that. The wifi doesn’t work and there are few amenities. The highlight of Sleep In Hostel are the several beer stations and restaurants in the area along with the easy access to San Chaung, Downtown and the waterfront.
Backpacker Myanmar – No 256 Pansodan Street Tower A
This hostel is a perfect fit for those exploring Yangon alone. It’s centrally located (within walking distance of Sule Pagoda) and there is a sense of community in this tight, capsule hostel, making it an excellent place to engage with fellow backpackers. The facilities are clean and dorms are mixed gender. Beds cost around 15,000 Ks and come equipped with balconies overlooking the city. There’s a free airport shuttle, but no breakfast apart from snacks, instant coffee and tea available all day.
Pickled Tea Hostel – 11 Myaynigone Zay St
Clean, cozy, and comfortable, this hostel is on the higher end in terms of service, rooms and amenities. Burmese breakfast is served in the morning, but staff will still fix you something if you get up too late. The bunks are roomy, offer privacy, and come with personal reading lights. Food stalls are in abundance around the hostel, and Shwedagon and People’s Park are also within walking distance. Rates around 20,000 Ks per night.
Yama Dormitory – No.195, Bo Myat Htun Road, 9 Block, Botataung Township
A sleek, stylish stay, this new boutique hotel is a good choice for younger travelers interested in Yangon nightlife and looking for slightly upscale sleeping arrangements. Upstairs is KOSAN Rooftop Bar, but not many restaurant options are around. This guesthouse has modern Japanese interior design, fast wifi (modem on every floor), washing machines and excellent showers. Staying in a dorm is around 25,000 Ks, so it’s a bit pricey.
Other mentions:
Little Yangon Hostel – No.102, Lower 39th Street
Chan Myaye Guesthouse – 256/276 Mahabandoola Garden Street
Backpacker Bed and Breakfast – No.(38/40), Shwe Bon Thar Street
30th Corner Boutique Hostel – No.241/251, Anawyahtar Rd, 30th corner, Pabedan Tshp
Willow Inn – No. 644 First Floor, Merchant Road
Wayfarer’s Rest Chinatown – NO 640 (2ND Floor), Mahabandoola RD
Little Cabin Inn – No.76 (1st Floor) Upper Pazundaung Street | Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township
Scott Hostel – No. 198, 31st Street (Upper Block)
Golden Guest Inn (15 minute drive to airport, 20 to Shwedagon) – 182 Insein Road
Roly Hostel (10 minute walk from airport) – No.14, Kyauk Yay Twin, Radio Station Street
20th Street Hostel – No.23, 20th Street (Lower Block), Latha Township
Four Rivers Hostel – 79, 12th Street, Lanmadaw Township
*Featured image from Pickled Tea Hostel
