Gayani Punchihewa of Cinnamon Grand Colombo has been named the Gold Winner in the Outstanding Young Hotelier category at the 10th edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, recognising her contribution to the hospitality industry and commitment to delivering quality guest experiences.

The prestigious award was presented during the SATA 2026 Grand Gala, held at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, bringing together leading tourism and hospitality professionals, industry representatives and distinguished guests from across South Asia and the wider region.

Punchihewa, a hospitality professional associated with Cinnamon Grand Colombo, has built her experience in the hotel industry through a focus on guest service, operational excellence and maintaining high standards of hospitality. Her work contributes to the Colombo hotel’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for both local and international guests.

The Silver Winners in the Outstanding Young Hotelier category were Abbas Ibrahim of Reveries Maldives and Tshering Phuntsho of Rema Resort, Bhutan.

Abbas Ibrahim is a hospitality professional associated with Reveries Maldives, a boutique guesthouse and retreat in Laamu Atoll. His experience in the Maldivian tourism and hospitality sector has seen him contribute to personalised guest service and authentic island experiences, reflecting a commitment to guest satisfaction and showcasing the natural beauty and local character of the Maldives.

Tshering Phuntsho of Rema Resort in Bhutan brings experience in the hospitality sector, contributing to the delivery of warm and personalised service and memorable guest experiences. His work reflects a commitment to Bhutanese hospitality, while supporting the resort’s focus on comfort, wellness and meaningful connections with its natural surroundings.

The Outstanding Young Hotelier category highlights emerging hospitality professionals who are making meaningful contributions to the industry through service excellence, professionalism and dedication to their respective properties and destinations.

The 10th edition of SATA marked a significant milestone for the regional travel and hospitality industry, celebrating the achievements of leading hotels, resorts, travel companies and professionals across South Asia.

Hosted at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, the SATA 2026 Grand Gala brought together industry leaders and hospitality professionals for an evening celebrating excellence, innovation and achievement across the region’s tourism sector.

SATA 2026 Partners include: 

Destination Partner: Visit Maldives Corporation

Host Hotel: Barcelo’ Nasandhura

Platinum Partner: Gulf Craft Maldives

Gold Partners: The Hawks Pvt Ltd, Allied Insurance Company of the Maldives

Beverage Partner: Nescafé

Silver Partners: Velana International Airport, Marine Vibe, Pro AC

Digital Ad Partner - Infinity Pro

Print Partner - Printlab Creative

Photography and Videography Partner - STUDI07

PR Partner - PR Network

Broadcasting Partner: SSTV

Hospitality Partners: Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Sri Lanka), Sheraton Grand Bangalore at Brigade Gateway (India), Aarya Hotel & Spa (Nepal), Zhiwaling Heritage (Bhutan), Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan (Bangladesh) and Hulhule Island Hotel (Maldives).

About SATA

The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) is an annual platform celebrating excellence across the travel, tourism and hospitality industries in South Asia. The awards recognise outstanding hotels, resorts, travel companies, tourism organisations and industry professionals for their achievements and contributions to the region's tourism sector.

For more information, please visit: www.southasiantravelawards.com