Colombo, Sri Lanka experienced a remarkable surge in its tourism sector in September 2025, surpassing 1.6 million tourist arrivals for the year thus far. This growth was primarily driven by a 28.2% year-over-year increase in visitor numbers in September, led by a sharp rise in arrivals from India. Earlier in the year, nearly 900,000 tourists had already visited, highlighting a consistent upward trend despite ongoing regional and global travel challenges.
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Sri Lanka's tourism minister, Prasanna Ranatunga, acknowledged the positive momentum, stating, “The surge in Indian tourists reflects the strengthening bilateral relations and successful promotions by our tourism authorities. These figures demonstrate growing confidence in Sri Lanka as a preferred destination.” His remarks underscored India’s strategic role as the primary market for the country’s tourism industry.
The growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism operates within the framework of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Act, which regulates licensing, quality standards, and sustainable tourism practices. Furthermore, the government has enhanced travel facilitation by implementing visa waivers and streamlining entry procedures for Indian nationals, aligned with bilateral agreements aimed at promoting cross-border mobility and regional cooperation. These policies ensure sustainable growth while maintaining visitor safety and infrastructure stability.
Sri Lanka's tourism minister, Prasanna Ranatunga, acknowledged the positive momentum
The influx of tourists translates into significant economic benefits, including increased foreign exchange earnings, job creation in hospitality and related sectors such as retail and transportation, and multiplier effects throughout the economy. Diplomatically, the growth reinforces Sri Lanka’s position as a vital player in South Asian tourism and deepens cultural and economic ties with India. Meanwhile, industry stakeholders face pressure to improve infrastructure and service quality to sustain this expansion.
