Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Sri Lanka celebrates a remarkable international recognition as Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort have been named among the world’s best hotels in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 T+L 500. The two properties are the only Sri Lankan resorts to be recognised in this year’s prestigious list, underscoring Anantara’s contribution to the continued development of Sri Lanka as a world-class luxury travel destination

The T+L 500 is one of the most respected hotel accolades in international travel, compiled from the results of Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards survey. Presented as a curated guide to the world’s leading hotels and resorts, the list celebrates properties that continue to inspire travellers through exceptional service, memorable experiences, distinctive design, and a strong sense of place.

Rooted in heartfelt hospitality and authentic destination experiences, Anantara connects travellers with genuine places, people and stories. In Sri Lanka, this philosophy is reflected through two distinct resorts that celebrate the island’s architecture, coastline, culture, cuisine, wellness traditions and natural beauty.

This recognition is more than an award. It is a tribute to the people who bring each resort to life every day from chefs, butlers and spa therapists to gardeners, housekeepers, guides, front office and service teams whose warmth, care and attention to detail shape every guest journey.

A Journey into Southern Sri Lanka’s Coastal Soul: Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort

On Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort offers a different expression of island luxury. Set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Indian Ocean and surrounded by coconut palms and golden beaches, the resort is a secluded clifftop retreat designed for travellers seeking privacy, restoration and meaningful connection.

The resort invites guests to slow down and reconnect with nature, wellness, cuisine and culture. Its experiences range from Ayurvedic-inspired spa journeys and yoga to destination dining, surf adventures, local excursions and immersive encounters with Sri Lanka’s southern heritage.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is especially celebrated for its sense of seclusion. The sound of the ocean, the movement of palms, the generosity of Sri Lankan hospitality and the resort’s intimate service culture create an atmosphere that feels deeply restorative. It is this emotional quality, the ability to make guests feel cared for, grounded and connected that continues to define the resort’s appeal among discerning international travellers.

“To be recognised among the world’s best hotels in Travel & Leisure is a wonderful honour for Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and a tribute to the dedication of our team,” said Mr. Frederik Van Den Borre, The General Manager. “Anantara Tangalle is defined by its peaceful coastal setting, restorative experiences and deep connection to the south of Sri Lanka. But above all, it is our people who create the sense of belonging, care and discovery that guests remember long after they leave.”

A Living Tribute to Sri Lankan Architecture: Anantara Kalutara Resort

Set between the Indian Ocean and the tranquil Kalu River lagoon, Anantara Kalutara Resort offers a rare luxury coastal escape shaped by one of Sri Lanka’s greatest creative minds. The resort is located on the final project site of legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, the father of Tropical Modernism, whose design vision continues to define the resort’s atmosphere of openness, light, water and harmony with nature.

The resort’s architecture reflects Bawa’s signature approach, with sunlit spaces, natural textures and a seamless relationship between indoors and outdoors. This gives Anantara Kalutara Resort a distinctive identity unlike any other beach resort in Sri Lanka, creating a strong sense of place where design, landscape and hospitality come together as one.

Beyond its architecture, the resort offers an inspiring gateway to Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Guests can enjoy lagoon and ocean views, destination dining, wellness rituals at award-winning Anantara Spa, family-friendly experiences, water sports, cultural discovery and warm island hospitality delivered with the thoughtful service for which Anantara is known.

“This recognition is an incredibly proud moment for Anantara Kalutara Resort and for every team member who brings our guest experience to life each day,” said Mr. Christoph Dueker, General Manager of Anantara Kalutara Resort. “Our resort carries a unique architectural and cultural story, shaped by Geoffrey Bawa’s timeless design philosophy and its connection to Sri Lanka’s natural landscape. What makes that story truly meaningful is the warmth of our people, their care, creativity and genuine Sri Lankan hospitality, which turn every stay into a memorable journey.”

A Recognition for Sri Lanka’s People and Destination Appeal

The inclusion of both Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort in the 2026 T+L 500 is a significant endorsement of Sri Lanka’s growing position as a world-class travel destination. It highlights the island’s ability to offer far more than beautiful beaches from architecture and Ayurveda to cuisine, wildlife, culture, adventure and the genuine warmth of its people.

At both resorts, the guest experience is shaped by local knowledge and personal care. A meal becomes a story of Sri Lankan flavours. A spa journey becomes a reflection of ancient wellness traditions. A walk through the property becomes a discovery of architecture, landscape and local life. A simple greeting becomes part of the memory of a place.

This people-first approach is central to Anantara’s success in Sri Lanka. While design, location and facilities provide the setting, it is the resort teams who transform each stay into something personal and lasting.

As global travellers continue to seek destinations with authenticity, wellness, nature, culture and human connection, Sri Lanka is uniquely positioned to stand out. The recognition of two Anantara resorts in the 2026 T+L 500 reinforces the island’s strength as a destination that combines world-class hospitality with deeply rooted local experiences.