NKAR triumphs at Sri Lanka Tourism Awards, securing three prestigious titles

The Sri Lanka Tourism Awards took place after a six-year hiatus, with the previous event held in 2018. At the ceremony, the NKAR brand stood out winning three major awards. NKAR is a renowned brand in the Sri Lankan tourism industry, with 45 years of an impeccable track record, positioning itself among the top 5 destination management companies in the country. These three awards stand as a testament to our diverse contributions to the tourism sector and highlight how NKAR has consistently upheld its standards while achieving significant growth over the past 45 years.

Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara, Chairman & Managing Director of NKAR, was bestowed with this prestigious award in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the tourism industry and, more broadly, to the country over the past 45 years. In 1980, when he started the NKAR brand on a small scale, his vision and strategy played a pivotal role in growing it into one of the leading travel brands in Sri Lanka. His contributions to the industry have always been selfless. More often than not, he has prioritized the industry's and country's growth over the success of his own brand. One of his most significant contributions to the industry is the creation of "Sancharaka Udawa," Sri Lanka's largest travel trade show, which was initiated by Mr. Nanayakkara during his tenure as the President of the Sri Lanka Inbound Tour Operators Association.

NKAR is recognised for its innovative products and has established itself as the leading experiential tourism provider in Sri Lanka's tourism industry. Its long-standing partnerships with foreign operators are a testament to the exceptional service levels and standards maintained by the company. This award recognizes NKAR's impeccable track record, outstanding service, commitment to high standards, and prioritization of client health and safety. This marks the second consecutive year that NKAR has received this award, highlighting its continued excellence and consistency.

Ten years ago, during NKAR's 35th anniversary celebration, Managing Director Mr. Nanayakkara highlighted the company’s online focus and vision for the brand’s future in the coming decade. Proving that vision wasn’t just words, NKAR's brand name has now been recognized with the Best Digital Marketing Campaign award in Sri Lanka. This accolade acknowledges NKAR's advanced, innovative, and well-integrated marketing campaigns that have gained global attention. This recognition is just one example of NKAR's progress. Over the past decade, many technical upgrades have been implemented, with one key investment being NKAR's commitment to enhancing their systems during the COVID-19 period. This upgrade, launched later in 2024, has enabled the company to offer more convenient services for both clients and the in-house team.

These three awards are a testament to the company's excellence in three key areas: leadership, company policies and standards, and innovative strategies that set NKAR apart from the competition.

CAPTION

IMAGE - 1

Hon. Vijitha Herath (Tourism Minister), Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara (Chiarman / Managing Director - NKAR Travels), Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam (Chairman - SLTDA and SLTPB)

IMAGE - 2

Mr. Roshen Steelman (COO - NKAR Travels), Mr. Brian Wimalasinghe (Head of Marketing - NKAR Travels), Mrs. Mandrinee Nanayakkara (Head of HR - NKAR Travels), Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe (Deputy Minister - Tourism), Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara (Chairman / Managing Director - NKAR Travels)