Sri Lanka's Iconic Galle Face Hotel Wins Double International Honour

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Galle Face Hotel, Colombo has achieved a major milestone in its 160-year history, securing two prestigious international accolades that further cement its reputation as one of Asia's most iconic heritage hotels.

The hotel won Gold in the Best Heritage Hotel category at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) held in the Maldives, while also earning an impressive sixth-place ranking in the Rest of Asia category at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2026.

For the historic Colombo landmark, the recognitions represent more than industry awards. They represent the enduring appeal of a property that has welcomed travelers from around the world since 1864, while preserving its rich heritage and adapting to modern hospitality expectations.

The SATA Gold Award marks the first time Galle Face Hotel has received the region's highest recognition in the heritage hotel category.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean and situated along Colombo's iconic Galle Face Green, the hotel remains one of Asia's most recognizable historic properties and an enduring symbol of Sri Lanka's tourism and hospitality sector.

The recognition follows the hotel's strong performance at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2026, where it was ranked sixth among leading destinations in the Rest of Asia category through votes cast by travelers from around the world.

Hotel officials say the achievement reflects the dedication of the entire team, from front office and housekeeping staff to culinary, engineering, food and beverage, security and support departments, whose collective efforts continue to bring the hotel's legacy to life every day.

The recognition also acknowledges the continued leadership and vision behind the preservation of one of Sri Lanka's most treasured hospitality institutions.

For the Grand Old Dame of Colombo, the double recognition is both a celebration of its distinguished past and a powerful endorsement of its future, proving that even after more than 160 years, Galle Face Hotel continues to captivate visitors from across the globe with its timeless promise of "Heritage with Heart."