The 8th edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024 concluded with great success at a prestigious Gala and Awards ceremony held at Aloft Kathmandu Thamel. The event drew key stakeholders from the hospitality and travel industry, including hotels, resorts, airlines, and travel agents from across South Asia.
With over 400 nominations highlighting the vibrancy of the region’s travel industry, SATA 2024 emphasized excellence in tourism. Hon. Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, along with Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) CEO Deepak Joshi, played a pivotal role in the event, underscoring the significance of tourism for Nepal’s economy. The event was proudly supported by the NTB and the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN).
Nepal received significant accolades, including the title of Leading Heritage Destination, recognizing the country’s rich cultural heritage. The late Ambica Shrestha and Karna Shakya, both esteemed figures in Nepal’s tourism sector, were honored posthumously in the “Faces of South Asia” awards, celebrating their enduring influence on the region’s travel industry.
Key winners from Nepal included Kavya Himalayas as the Leading Hill Resort, Hyatt Place Kathmandu as the Leading City Hotel, and The Soaltee Kathmandu, recognized as the Leading Meeting and Conference Hotel. Additionally, Aloft Kathmandu Thamel was awarded for Best CSR Programme, reinforcing Nepal’s integral role in the regional tourism landscape.
SATA President Ismail Hameed, speaking at the event, highlighted the importance of collaboration within South Asia to enhance tourism prospects. The ceremony not only celebrated achievements in hospitality but also provided valuable networking opportunities for industry professionals.
The awards reflected Nepal’s rising status as a premier travel destination in South Asia, with its tourism sector steadily recovering post-pandemic and contributing significantly to the country’s economic revitalization.
