This well-run hostel south of the railway tracks has a good mix of dorm and private rooms, all of which share the clean bathroom blocks. The friendly owners are a fount of local information and are flexible with prices, though they run things by the book when it comes to registration slips.
Dorms are either mixed or female-only. Economy twins are a bit cheaper but have no windows. Guests can use the kitchen, with its free tea and coffee, as well as the washing machine (US$2 per load). The location isn't great but marshrutka 22 runs from near the hostel to the train station and Tsum store.