Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Roadshow In Mumbai & Delhi

EE News Desk Feb 10, 2024

Sri Lanka Tourism hosts a two-city roadshow series in India. Commencing in Mumbai on 9 February with OTM and extending to New Delhi on 20 February 2024 with SATTE.

2023 witnessed over 1.4 million tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka by December. The event is aimed at engaging tour operators, media, influencers, corporates, mice agents, trade associations and others in the Indian tourism community.

Championed by industry leaders including Sri Lankan Airlines, Indigo Spice Jet, Air India and Vistara, the roadshow features a business networking evening, fostering partnerships.

India has long been a vital source of tourism for Sri Lanka and 3,02,844 tourists have visited Sri Lanka during 2023, comprising 20 per cent of total arrivals. In 2024, approximately 40,000 tourists have visited Sri Lanka so far, making a positive contribution to the country's economy. This initiative aims to rejuvenate Sri Lanka's tourism industry, contributing to the nation's resurgence in the economic aspects.

In January 2024, the number of Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka increased by over 100 per cent, rising from 13,759 in January 2023 to 34,399. There is a discussion on the use of Indian Rupees for transactions in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan citizens are now permitted to hold INR equivalent to $10,000 in physical form, streamlining transactions and trade between the two countries. Both Sri Lankans and Indians can utilise Indian rupees instead of U.S. dollars for international transactions. This move makes Sri Lanka the third country, following Nepal and Bhutan, where INR can be freely used.

Sri Lanka boasts ancient temples, historical sites, wildlife reserves and beaches. The country claims to be committed to sustainable tourism practices, focusing on eco-friendly initiatives and responsible travel to protect the environment and preserve cultural heritage. Adventure tourism is actively promoted in Sri Lanka, with activities such as hiking, trekking, water sports and wildlife safaris gaining popularity among tourists.

Sri Lanka has invested significantly in enhancing its tourism infrastructure, including upgrading transportation networks, expanding accommodation options and improving facilities at popular tourist destinations.

A pilot project offers free tourist visas for the initial 30 days until 31 March 2024. Travellers from India and six other designated countries can enjoy dual entry status.