Galle Face Hotel Celebrates Historic Double Recognition Across Asia

In a landmark moment for Sri Lankan hospitality, Galle Face Hotel has achieved a remarkable double recognition, winning Gold in the Best Heritage Hotel category at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) in the Maldives, following its outstanding sixth-place finish in the Rest of Asia category at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.

For the iconic Grand Old Dame of Sri Lanka, these achievements represent more than industry accolades. They reaffirm the enduring appeal of a hotel that has welcomed the world since 1864, preserving its rich heritage while continuing to evolve with the expectations of today’s discerning travellers.

A Historic First for Galle Face Hotel

Winning Gold in the Best Heritage Hotel category at the South Asian Travel Awards for the first time marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s distinguished history.

The award recognises the importance of preserving a remarkable hospitality legacy while sustaining the standards of service, authenticity and character that define an exceptional heritage destination.

Situated along Colombo’s iconic Galle Face Green, overlooking the Indian Ocean, Galle Face Hotel remains one of Asia’s most recognisable historic hotels and a proud symbol of Sri Lanka’s hospitality heritage.

International Recognition, Earned Through Trust

The SATA Gold award follows another significant achievement: Galle Face Hotel’s sixth-place ranking in the Rest of Asia category at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.

While the two awards represent different forms of recognition, together they tell a compelling story. One celebrates heritage hospitality, while the other reflects the voices and experiences of travellers who continue to value the hotel.

For a property with more than 160 years of history, such recognition reinforces the importance of remaining relevant without losing the character and traditions that make it distinctive.

A Celebration of the People Behind the Legacy

Behind every award is a team whose dedication transforms a historic property into a living hospitality experience.

From the front office and housekeeping to culinary, food and beverage, engineering, security and every supporting department, these achievements reflect the collective commitment of the people who care for the hotel and its guests every day.

The recognition also acknowledges the continued support and vision of the hotel’s Chairman, Sanjeev Gardiner, and the ownership and leadership team in safeguarding this treasured institution for future generations.

At Galle Face Hotel, heritage is not simply preserved in its architecture or recorded in its history. It lives through the people, the service and the genuine sense of belonging that define the Galle Face spirit.

Heritage with Heart, Looking to the Future

As travellers increasingly seek authentic experiences rooted in culture, history and a genuine sense of place, Galle Face Hotel continues to demonstrate the enduring value of heritage hospitality.

These achievements provide further encouragement to protect the hotel’s legacy, strengthen its guest experience and contribute to positioning Sri Lanka as a destination of distinction on the world tourism stage.

For the Grand Old Dame, the celebrations are a proud moment, but the responsibility remains unchanged: to honour the past, empower its people and create meaningful experiences for generations to come.

Two prestigious recognitions. One enduring legacy. A team united by pride.

After more than 160 years, Galle Face Hotel continues to welcome the world with its timeless promise of Heritage with Heart.