Newburgh Ella - The Tea Factory has been named the Gold Winner in the South Asia’s Best New Hotel category at the 10th edition of South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026. The Silver Winners of the category were: Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara, The Centara Collection and Hyatt Place Dhaka Uttara.

Held at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, the milestone SATA 2026 Grand Gala brought together leading tourism and hospitality professionals from across South Asia and the region.

About Newburgh Ella - The Tea Factory

Newburgh Ella – The Tea Factory is a distinctive heritage hotel set amidst the scenic tea plantations of Ella, Sri Lanka. The property combines the charm of a historic tea factory with modern comforts, offering guests an immersive experience in the region’s rich tea heritage. Its accommodation, dining and leisure facilities provide a relaxing retreat surrounded by lush mountain landscapes. Guests can explore tea estates, enjoy nature-based activities and experience the unique character of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The hotel offers a memorable blend of heritage, hospitality and natural beauty.

About Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara, The Centara Collection

Himalayan Hideaway Resort Pokhara is a tranquil retreat in Pokhara, Nepal, surrounded by the region’s scenic natural beauty and Himalayan landscapes. The resort offers comfortable accommodation designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy dining, wellness and leisure experiences while exploring Pokhara’s lakes, mountains and cultural attractions. Its peaceful setting provides an ideal base for travellers seeking both adventure and a relaxing getaway.

About Hyatt Place Dhaka Uttara

Hyatt Place Dhaka Uttara is a contemporary hotel located in Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh, offering convenient accommodation for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel features modern rooms, dining options, meeting facilities and recreational amenities designed for a comfortable stay. Its location provides easy access to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and key commercial areas. With its practical facilities and contemporary hospitality, the hotel offers a convenient base for exploring and working in Dhaka.

SATA 2026 Partners include: 

1. Host Partner – Barceló Nasandhura Malé

2. Destination Partner – Visit Maldives Corporation 

3. Platinum Partner – Gulf Craft Maldives

4. Gold Partner – Hawks Pvt Ltd

5. Gold Partner – Allied Insurance Company of the Maldives 

6. Beverage Partner – Nescafe

7.Silver Partner – Velana International Airport

8. Silver Partner – Marine Vibe

9. Silver Partner – Pro AC

10. Digital Partner – Dhiraagu 

11. Printing Partner – Print Lab Creative

12. Hospitality Partner – Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan (Bangladesh)

13. Hospitality Partner – Hulhule Island Hotel (Maldives)

14. Hospitality Partner – Zhiwaling Heritage (Bhutan)

15. Hospitality Partner –  Aarya Hotel & Spa (Nepal)

16. Hospitality Partner – Sheraton Grand Bangalore at Brigade Gateway (India)

17. Hospitality Partner – Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Sri Lanka)

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