Nominations are officially open for the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, inviting leading travel and hospitality brands and professionals from across South Asia to be recognized for excellence, innovation, and leadership in the industry.
A Decade of Recognizing Outstanding Achievements
Established in 2016, the South Asian Travel Awards has grown over ten years into one of the region’s most respected accolades in tourism and hospitality. SATA celebrates exceptional achievements from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and India. The awards recognize both established brands and individuals driving innovation and growth in the travel sector.
For 2026, SATA introduces two new individual award categories:
- Outstanding Chef
- Outstanding Young Hotelier (Under 40 Years)
These categories highlight culinary excellence and emerging leadership, reflecting evolving trends in South Asia’s hospitality industry.
Endorsed by Leading Industry Bodies
SATA’s credibility is reinforced by endorsements from 15 leading international and government tourism organizations, including:
- Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)
- Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT)
- Association of Tourism Trade Organizations, India (ATTOI)
- Association of Travel Agents (ATA)
- Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC)
- Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators (CATO)
- Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL)
- Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB)
- Kerala Hotel General Manager Club (KHGMC)
- National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM)
- Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)
- Visit Maldives Corporation
- Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
- Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO)
- The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL)
- Bangladesh International Hotel Association (BIHA)
These endorsements highlight SATA’s transparency, prestige, and regional influence.
A Platform for Recognition and Collaboration
Over the years, SATA ceremonies have been hosted in prominent destinations across South Asia, including Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, and the Maldives. The annual event brings together senior executives, hoteliers, tourism professionals, and media, providing a platform to celebrate achievement, network, and exchange industry insights.
Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation process by a panel of experienced judges and industry experts across diverse categories such as South Asia’s Best New Hotel, Leading Riverfront Hotel, Leading Palace Hotel, Leading Designer Hotel, and more.
Beyond recognition, SATA fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic partnerships, supporting South Asia’s growth as a premier global travel destination.
How to Submit Nominations
Nominations for SATA 2026 are now open. Entries can be submitted online at: https://www.southasiantravelawards.com/nominationCreate. The deadline for submissions is April 25, 2026.
