Minor Hotels Launches NH Collection and NH Brands in Sri Lanka

Global hotel owner and operator Minor Hotels has announced the introduction of its upper-upscale NH Collection Hotels & Resorts and upscale NH Hotels & Resorts brands in Sri Lanka. This expansion includes two properties in the country, marking a significant milestone for the company.

New Properties in Prime Locations

The two properties, one located in the bustling capital of Colombo and the other in the serene beachside town of Bentota, will be managed by Minor Hotels following an agreement with Softlogic Holdings, the owner of the properties.

NH Collection Colombo Hotel

Opened on June 1st, the NH Collection Colombo Hotel is situated in the heart of the city, just steps away from Liberty Arcade and the Indian Ocean. The hotel is within a 10-minute drive of key attractions such as the National Museum, Independence Square, and Pettah Market. Sri Lanka’s main airport, Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), is a 45-minute drive away.

This five-star hotel features 219 rooms and suites, ranging from 33 to 254 sqm, and includes the city’s largest Presidential Suite. All rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows with expansive views of the Indian Ocean or the city.

The hotel boasts six food and beverage outlets that offer a variety of global cuisines, including an international all-day dining restaurant, specialty Indian, Thai, and Japanese restaurants, a rooftop bar with panoramic sunset views, a café, and a lounge. For business and events, the hotel offers modern facilities accommodating up to 200 attendees, including two banquet facilities, five meeting rooms, and a boardroom. Wellness amenities include a state-of-the-art gym, a rooftop infinity pool, and a spa.

NH Bentota Ceysands Resort

Located 90 minutes south of Colombo along the island’s west coast, the NH Bentota Ceysands Resort is set to open on July 1st. Positioned between the Bentota River and the Indian Ocean, this 166-key property includes rooms and suites ranging from 37 sqm to 139 sqm.

Amenities at NH Bentota include an expansive swimming pool with ocean views, a water sports centre, a spa, and a kid’s club. Dining options include five restaurants and bars, featuring an international all-day dining restaurant, Thai and seafood specialty restaurants, a light bites café, and a pool bar.

Exciting Times for Sri Lankan Tourism

Sri Lanka's tourism industry has seen a remarkable rebound, with arrivals more than doubling in 2023 and continuing strong into 2024. The country's tourism is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels, nearing or even exceeding the record highs of 2018.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, expressed enthusiasm for the new ventures: "We are excited to be part of Sri Lanka's tourism recovery and look forward to capitalising on the pent-up demand with our partner Softlogic Holdings through these new NH Collection and NH properties."

Ashok Pathirage, Chairman of Softlogic Holdings, also shared his optimism: "We are delighted to collaborate with Minor Hotels to manage our property in Colombo. Minor Hotels has a proven track record of successful management and exceptional hospitality standards. We at Softlogic Holdings are excited to be a part of NH Collection and NH’s debut in Sri Lanka and look forward to an outstanding partnership with Minor Hotels in the future."

These new properties are set to enhance the hospitality landscape in Sri Lanka, offering luxury and comfort to travelers and contributing to the country's burgeoning tourism sector.