Sri Lanka has secured two prestigious placements in the Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) 2026 Star Awards, with Amangalla in Galle Fort and Amanwella in Tangalle earning recognition in this year’s global luxury rankings. The inclusion highlights the island’s growing standing in the international high-end travel market as FTG expanded its annual list to span more than 100 countries.

The 68th annual Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards were unveiled this week, marking a milestone year for the independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises.

Anchoring the fortified ramparts of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, Amangalla was recognized for its refined heritage hospitality. Housed in the former New Oriental Hotel — a colonial-era landmark that has stood for more than 150 years — the 31-room property blends polished teak interiors, antique furnishings and wide verandas with formal yet deeply personal service. The resort’s expansive spa, hydrotherapy facilities and traditional wellness-inspired treatments complement its understated Sri Lankan and Western dining experiences, offering guests a seamless balance between history and contemporary luxury.

Further along the southern coastline, Amanwella in Tangalle was also honored for its nature-immersed design and tranquil beachfront setting. Perched above Tangalle Bay, the 30-suite retreat features low-rise architecture, private plunge pools and panoramic ocean views. With minimalist teak and stone interiors, clifftop infinity pool access and ingredient-driven coastal cuisine, Amanwella emphasizes privacy, simplicity and a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

Sri Lanka was among several new destinations added to the 2026 list, alongside Bhutan, Croatia, Georgia, Grenada, Laos, Poland, Tanzania and Uzbekistan, as luxury travel continues to expand into emerging and boutique markets.

Globally, the awards marked historic firsts, including the world’s first Five-Star cruise ship accolade awarded to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma, and the first Five-Star cruise ship restaurant awarded to Celebrity Xcel’s Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud.

In total, the 2026 Star Awards recognized 2,422 properties worldwide, including 343 Five-Star hotels, 708 Four-Star hotels and 679 Recommended hotels, in addition to award-winning restaurants, spas and cruise experiences.

Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, said this year’s winners reflect an evolution in luxury hospitality, with properties moving toward highly personalized, immersive and privacy-focused experiences.

The recognition of Amangalla and Amanwella places Sri Lanka firmly on the global luxury travel map, reinforcing the country’s appeal to discerning international travelers seeking heritage elegance and coastal seclusion in equal measure.