Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals maintain momentum as Q1 earnings cross US$ 1 bn

Date:

April 14, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has continued its upward trajectory, welcoming 56,567 international visitors between April 01 and 09, 2025, according to the latest data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).

The figures signal a promising continuation of the sector’s recovery, following a prolonged slump triggered by the economic crisis and global travel disruptions in recent years.

During the first nine days of April, India remained the most significant contributor to tourist footfall, accounting for 18.7 per cent of arrivals. The United Kingdom followed with 13.6 per cent, while Russia secured third place with 10.9 per cent.

A notable number of visitors also arrived from Australia, Germany, France, and Bangladesh, reflecting growing diversification in the country’s appeal across multiple regions.

Daily arrivals throughout this period fluctuated between 5,634 and 6,934, peaking on April 05. The steady flow suggests renewed traveller confidence and the effectiveness of targeted promotional campaigns rolled out by Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities.

From January 01 to April 09, the total number of international tourist arrivals reached 778,843—a solid start to the year, building on the momentum carried over from late 2024.

Meanwhile, tourism revenue has mirrored the upward trend in arrivals. In March 2025 alone, earnings reached US$ 354 million, equivalent to Rs. 104.8 billion. This figure marks a 4.6 per cent increase from the previous month, and a year-on-year rise of the same margin when measured in rupee terms.

These gains underline both improved tourist spending patterns and the gradual strengthening of local tourism infrastructure.

Cumulatively, the first quarter of 2025 has generated US$ 1.12 billion in tourism-related income—an increase of 9.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

This growth reflects not only higher visitor numbers but also strategic efforts to enhance high-value tourism experiences, including boutique travel, wellness retreats, eco-tourism, and heritage-focused itineraries.

Industry observers have welcomed the figures as an encouraging sign that Sri Lanka is reclaiming its place as a premier South Asian travel destination. However, they also note that sustained investment in infrastructure, environmental conservation, and security will be vital to ensure the industry’s resilience and long-term viability.

Looking ahead, officials have indicated that further campaigns will be launched across Europe and Asia to tap into emerging markets and seasonal travel patterns.

With global travel picking up pace and Sri Lanka’s natural, cultural, and culinary offerings once again gaining visibility, the tourism sector is poised to play a pivotal role in national economic recovery and employment generation in 2025 and beyond.

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