Sri Lanka tourism targeting 3 million arrivals for 2025 started the year with a bang attracting almost 80.000 arrivals in the first 10 days of the year. Both India and Russia were the two key markets attracting 11.7499with 16.6%) and 11.629 916.4%) from January 1 to 9 The United Kingdom (5,520- 7.8%) Germany (5,049 – 7.1%) Australia (3,055 4.3%) and France (2,714 – 3.8%) took the third to sixth places among the best arrival destinations for Sri Lanka so far. January 2 and saw the second-best daily average of 9,392 and 8,974 respectively.
With the ongoing Chinese New Year and Chinese traditionally preferring to stay with their families in China, arrivals slummed to seventh place. However, it is expected to pick up significantly with new Chinese airlines adding Sri Lanka to their radar.
In an interview with ‘Daily News Business’ Chairman. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Buddhika Hewawasam said that they have planned a series of new promotions to increase Chinese arrivals.
“President Anura Kumar Dissanayake visit to China would be a timely and great boost to ‘up’ the tourist arrivals from China to Sri Lanka which was number one source destination during the pre-COVID era.
“These will help to elevate Chinese arrivals to the top three positions by the end of the year-end,” he said.
Sri Lanka had the best year for tourism in 2018 soon after ending hostilities with the LTTE recording 2,333,796 and last year the country attracted 2,053,465. Industry says that due to issues such as introduction of the complicated and expensive VFS visa system, Arugam Bay travel advisors and minimum room rate Sri Lanka could not reach the 2.35 million targets.
plans to open archaeological sites for night tourism
The government has announced plans to open several archaeological sites to tourists at night.
Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, Gamagedara Dissanayake, revealed that Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will be the first location to offer nighttime access to both local and foreign visitors.
He added that discussions are ongoing, and public opinions are being gathered on the matter.
Sri Lanka’s south cost: A Winter ISLAND paradise
Sri Lanka’s South Coast has emerged as a top travel destination this winter, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious accommodations.
According to Vogue, the region is attracting travelers from around the world with its pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and serene tea plantations.
The South Coast is renowned for its stunning coastline, where visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, whale watching, and exploring hidden coves.
The combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and luxurious accommodations makes Sri Lanka’s South Coast an ideal destination for winter travelers looking to escape the cold and immerse themselves in a tropical paradise.
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