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Sri Lanka is optimistic about achieving 3 million tourist arrival targets in 2025 after the island nation witnessed 500,000 foreign visitors into the country in the first two months.

Tourist arrivals into Sri Lanka reached 530,746 up to March 5 of this year with 15.1 percent growth compared to the same period in 2024, official data showed.

The country has seen record tourist arrivals in January and February, surpassing the peak monthly arrivals in those months recorded in 2018.

“Our target for this year is attracting 3 million tourists. Since we have reached 500,000 in both January and February, we should be able to reach this year’s target,” Deputy Tourism Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe said in a recorded video.

“We will be implementing tourism promotion strategies globally in March. With that, we should be able to reach this year’s target.”

Sri Lanka missed the island nation’s 2024 tourist target of 2.3 million, but recorded its third highest annual arrival of 2.05 million in the year with a 38.1 percent growth led by Indians and Russians.

Sri Lanka’s record high tourism arrival of 2,333,796 has been recorded in 2018 followed by 2,116,407 in the previous year.

The island is popular for nature with beaches and tropical climate, with most European and Western tourists choosing it as the key destination during their winter season falling from November to February.

At its peak in 2018, earnings from tourism accounted for 5 percent of the county’s gross domestic product (GDP).

However, the Easter Sunday attacks on churches and high-end hotels in 2019, followed by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, as well as the 2022 economic crisis, hit the country’s hospitality industry.

The island nation witnessed $3.17 billion revenue in 2024, with a 53.2 percent jump compared to $2.07 billion in the previous year.

Building on the strong momentum from 2024’s record-breaking tourist numbers, Sri Lanka has welcomed 485,102 visitors between January 1 and February 27, 2025.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority reports that India was the leading source market, contributing 77,381 visitors, followed by the Russian Federation with 63,337, and the United Kingdom with 46,560.

Germany, China, and France were also significant contributors, with 31,770, 28,028, and 27,682 arrivals, respectively.

In February alone, Sri Lanka saw 232,341 tourists, with February 22 marking the peak single-day arrival of 10,815 visitors.

Sri Lanka’s earnings from tourism improved to an estimated 401 million US dollars in January 2025, with arrivals recording the highest monthly level for any of January in the past, according to the country’s Central Bank.

The Central Bank said in a press release issued on Friday night that 252,761 tourist arrivals were recorded in January, reports Xinhua.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe said earlier that Sri Lanka targets 3 million tourist arrivals this year.

Classic Travel, one of Sri Lanka’s leading travel solutions providers, has been named the Preferred Sales Agent (PSA) for MSC Cruises, marking an important step in expanding Sri Lanka’s travel options.

This partnership positions Classic Travel as a key player in making luxury cruise experiences more accessible to Sri Lankan travellers.

MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately held cruise company, boasts a fleet of 23 state-of-the-art ships renowned for their innovative design, superior hospitality, and commitment to sustainability. With a strong global presence, the company has received numerous accolades for delivering extraordinary voyages that blend comfort, entertainment, and exploration.

Through this collaboration, Classic Travel gains direct access to MSC Cruises’ online reservation system, allowing travellers to check availability, receive instant quotes, and make bookings seamlessly. Additionally, customers will benefit from personalised local support, ensuring a hassle-free cruise planning experience.

Classic Travel CEO/Director Shiham Imamudeen said: “We are thrilled to be named the Preferred Sales Agent for MSC Cruises in Sri Lanka. This collaboration allows us to bring world-class cruising experiences closer to our customers, offering them a seamless and convenient way to plan their journeys. With MSC Cruises’ exceptional hospitality and our expertise in delivering top-tier travel solutions, we look forward to creating unforgettable cruise experiences for Sri Lankan travellers.”

The appointment further strengthens Classic Travel’s reputation as a premier travel solutions provider in the region. With operations spanning Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE, and backed by the Expolanka Group, the company continues to enhance its portfolio by offering exclusive travel experiences to both leisure and corporate clients.

As Sri Lankan travellers increasingly seek immersive and high-quality holiday experiences, this partnership is set to boost the popularity of cruise vacations, providing customers with more diverse and luxurious travel options.

Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange revenue from tourism rose to $362.1 million in January, rising 34.5 percent compared to the same month last year, the central bank said, quoting tourism promotion authorities.

The revenue in January last year was $269.3 million.

The island nation witnessed $3.17 billion in revenue in 2024, with a 53.2 percent jump compared to $2.07 billion in the previous year, the data showed.

The arrivals also have picked up in the first 44 days of this year with the number of foreign visitors to Sri Lanka rose 19.9 percent to 367,804 through February 13 compared to a year ago.

The arrivals jumped 38.1 percent to 2.05 million in 2024 compared to the previous year. Sri Lanka missed its ambitious 2.3 million tourist arrival target and $5 billion revenue in 2024  .

Sri Lanka’s peak tourism has started and will go until early March.

Tourism accounted for nearly 5 percent of Sri Lanka’s economy when the sector was at its peak in 2018. Since then, it has been hit by violent Easter Sunday suicide attacks in 2019 and Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 followed by an unprecedented economic crisis.

The tourism earnings figure is estimated from a survey conducted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Sri Lanka’s imports and the merchandise trade deficit have gradually picked up as tourism earnings came in and people in the sector spent their wages and other earnings.

KANDY, SRI LANKA – February 12, 2025 – Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Indra Traders Pvt Ltd, is expanding its footprint in Sri Lanka’s hill capital with the launch of Kandy Myst by Cinnamon. Opening its doors on February 12, 2025, this vibrant new addition to the brand’s portfolio is set to transform urban hospitality in one of the country’s most culturally rich destinations. This strategic collaboration reflects Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to elevating Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape, introducing a fresh, modern experience to Kandy.

With an investment of USD 40 million, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon is designed to meet the needs of both leisure and business travellers, offering 215 contemporary rooms—the largest inventory in Kandy. Located on Kandy Katugastota Road, the hotel provides unmatched convenience to the city’s key attractions and transport routes. Guests can expect a seamless blend of modern comfort and the region’s rich cultural heritage, redefining the stay experience in this historic city.

At the heart of the hotel’s experience is its diverse and dynamic culinary offering, setting a new benchmark for dining in Kandy. Grains Dining, the largest buffet restaurant in the city, features up to 500 seats and an extensive selection of local and international cuisine. For those looking to unwind in an elegant setting, the Kosmos Skybar is a standout venue with its stunning infinity pool, signature cocktails, and panoramic rooftop views, creating the perfect backdrop for social gatherings and memorable evenings. Adding a vibrant social hub to the city, Terra Lounge is designed as a walk-in coffee shop, welcoming both in-house guests and visitors from across Kandy. Whether for casual catch-ups, business meetings, or social gatherings, with comfortable seating and a warm, inviting ambience, it is poised to become a go-to spot for professionals, friends, and families looking for a dynamic yet laid-back space to connect.

With its modern design, vibrant social spaces, and exceptional dining experiences, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon is set to redefine hospitality in Sri Lanka’s hill capital, offering a fresh and elevated urban stay in the heart of Kandy.

The recent announcement by the renowned travel booking platform highlights the growing appeal of this historic destination, Sigiriya.

Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress in central Sri Lanka, has been named the world’s most welcoming city for 2025 by Booking.com. Sigiriya a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. It is also known as the 8th Wonder of the World, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its iconic rock formations and the remains of an ancient palace.

The recognition from Booking.com is a testament to Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to bolster its tourism industry.

Travelers are increasingly drawn to authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, shaped by exceptional hospitality and service. As part of the thirteenth edition of the Traveller Review Awards, Booking.com unveils the 10 Most Welcoming Cities on Earth for 20251, along with tips and recommendations to help travellers fully embrace the charm of these unique destinations. Backed by over 360 million verified customer reviews on Booking.com, the featured accommodations are celebrated for consistently delivering outstanding hospitality.

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s ‘Cultural Triangle,’ Sigiriya is a must-see destination that seamlessly combines natural splendour with deep history. The iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking views and highlights the architectural brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. In the late 5th century, King Kashyapa established his royal capital here, crowning the summit with an elaborate palace adorned with vibrant frescoes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the nearby village, renowned for its fabrics and handicrafts, including batiks (fabrics with ornate designs traditionally created using wax), ornamental pots, and handloom textiles. The lush landscapes of Minneriya National Park are also famous for its spectacular wild elephant gatherings. From conquering the ascent to the fortress to embracing the tranquillity of village life, Sigiriya presents an unforgettable blend of adventure and serenity.

Where to stay: Roo Mansala, or “alluring abode” in English, has direct and uninterrupted views of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Pidurangala Rock. The hotel’s unique architecture and interior design blend seamlessly with the natural habitat that surrounds it. For travelers craving a bit more adventure, Back of Beyond – Pidurangala, boasts guest’s bungalows and villas surrounded by four acres of dense forest. While there, visitors should consider booking a Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya for an up-close look at the region’s famous elephants and other incredible wildlife in their natural habitat.

How to get there: Sigiriya is best reached by flying into Bandaranaike International Airport in the country’s capital of Colombo, followed by a scenic three-hour drive through Sri Lanka’s countryside.

Sri Lanka experienced a significant boost in foreign tourist arrivals, with numbers rising by 21.37% year-on-year to 252,761 in January 2025. This follows an 18.18% increase in the previous month, indicating a positive trend for the country’s tourism sector.

India led the way as the top tourist source market, contributing 17.2% of the total arrivals. Other key markets included Russia (13.5%), the UK (8.6%), China (6.6%), Germany (6%), France (5%), Australia (3.8%), Poland (3%), the US (2.8%), and the Netherlands (2.6%).

On a month-to-month basis, foreign tourist arrivals increased by 1.67% in January, further highlighting the steady growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.