Otherland Hotels has officially opened its first property, Otherland Galle, marking the brand’s international debut and introducing a distinctive lifestyle hospitality concept to Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Officially opened on October 12, 2026, the 66-key property combines contemporary accommodation, destination dining, music and locally inspired experiences to offer travellers an alternative to conventional hotel stays.

Located on Matara Road, approximately 400 metres from Dewata Beach and 2.8 kilometres from the historic Galle Fort, the hotel draws inspiration from the region’s surf culture, culinary heritage and creative communities. The property has been designed to encourage visitors to engage with the destination beyond traditional sightseeing.

Founded by Rishi Sreedharan and Samarth Gowda in partnership with Beryll Group, and with Emanuel Siddhartha joining as co-founder, Otherland Hotels follows a philosophy centred on distinctive design, personalised hospitality and immersive guest experiences. The Galle property features 24 Ocean Rooms, 25 Terra Rooms, 12 suites and five dormitories, catering to a diverse range of travellers, including couples, groups, solo visitors and adventure seekers.

The hotel’s facilities include Bar-kery, a multifunctional lobby space combining reception services, a café, bakery, cocktail counter and informal co-working area. The rooftop venue, Creatures, brings together a restaurant, cocktail bar, infinity pool and music-focused entertainment space, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the Galle coastline. The venue is designed to transition from a relaxed daytime destination to a vibrant evening social hub.

Dining is a central component of the hotel’s offering, with a culinary programme led by Chef Rajeev Kumar. The menu combines Sri Lankan flavours with international influences and contemporary cooking techniques. Signature dishes include King Coconut Ceviche, Lankan Fish Cutlets and Devilled Pork Ribs glazed with kithul treacle, alongside desserts that reinterpret traditional local favourites.

Music and cultural programming further distinguish the property, with resident DJs, live performances and curated music sessions forming part of its entertainment offering. Through its The Other Side experience programme, the hotel also connects guests with local communities through activities such as surfing lessons, guided walks around Galle Fort, cooking classes, whale-watching excursions and kayaking.

According to the company, the aim is to create meaningful connections between visitors and the destinations they explore by working with local surfers, fishermen, artisans, chefs and guides. This community-focused approach positions the hotel as more than an accommodation provider, integrating local culture and experiences into its hospitality model.

The opening of Otherland Galle represents the first phase of the brand’s broader development plans. Additional facilities, including a gym, wellness centre and banquet spaces, are planned for a subsequent phase.

With its combination of design-led accommodation, distinctive dining, music and community-based experiences, Otherland Galle is seeking to establish a new presence in Sri Lanka’s evolving hospitality sector while strengthening Galle’s appeal as a destination for experience-driven travellers.