Floods and Landslides in Sri Lanka Affect Tourism as Cyclone Ditwah Strikes Key Areas

Published on December 4, 2025

The tourism sector in Sri Lanka is facing significant disruption following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which has led to severe flooding, landslides, and infrastructure failures across the island. The disaster has greatly affected access to key tourist destinations, with several regions rendered temporarily inaccessible. As of December 2, 2025, authorities reported at least 410 deaths and 336 people missing, while rescue teams continue their efforts to reach areas still cut off by landslides and damaged roads.

The tourism industry, which has been a vital contributor to Sri Lanka’s economy, is now grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster. Travel across the island, especially to popular tourist spots such as Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and the Cultural Triangle, has been significantly impacted by the cyclone’s effects. This situation has created significant challenges for both tourists and local businesses that rely on tourism for income.

Impact on Key Tourism Destinations

Several key tourism hotspots in Sri Lanka are facing major disruptions due to the flooding and landslides caused by Cyclone Ditwah. In Colombo, the commercial capital and a gateway for many international tourists, parts of the city have been inundated, leading to road closures and transportation delays. Many of Colombo’s historic landmarks, including the Galle Face Green and National Museum, are affected by the weather, with some areas still being evacuated due to rising waters.

The central highlands, including the scenic city of Kandy and surrounding regions, are also struggling with significant damage. The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most important cultural and religious landmarks, has faced disruptions due to the storm’s effects on access routes. Additionally, Nuwara Eliya, known for its tea plantations and cool climate, has been impacted by landslides, affecting both the local population and tourists visiting for its tea tours and scenic landscapes.

In the Cultural Triangle area, which includes iconic sites like Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa, tourism has been greatly affected. These UNESCO World Heritage sites, which attract a significant number of international visitors, are facing temporary closures due to floodwaters and damaged infrastructure, disrupting access to these ancient ruins and temples.

The southern coastal region, including Galle, Mirissa, and Tangalle, has also seen significant flooding, affecting beach tourism. Many popular resorts and hotels in these areas are experiencing cancellations, and some properties have sustained structural damage from the cyclone. The beachfront experience in Sri Lanka has been temporarily halted, as the storm’s impact led to beach erosion and unsafe travel conditions for tourists.

Tourism Disruptions and Travel Cancellations

The severe weather has resulted in widespread flight cancellations and delays at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, as well as disruptions to train services and bus routes. International travelers seeking to reach Sri Lanka’s popular coastal and cultural sites are facing significant challenges, with many having to postpone or change their travel plans.

Travel agencies are dealing with an influx of cancellations, particularly for group tours to areas affected by flooding and landslides. Several hotel bookings have also been affected, with many travelers either cut off from their booked accommodations or unable to access certain parts of the island due to road damage and inaccessible transportation options. Emergency management authorities have issued warnings to avoid non-essential travel to affected areas, and many travel operators have suspended packages to high-risk regions.

Humanitarian Crisis and Ongoing Rescue Operations

The impact of Cyclone Ditwah goes beyond tourism disruption, as the nation faces a humanitarian crisis. Many areas, particularly in the north and central parts of the island, remain inaccessible due to landslides and road collapses. Rescue operations are ongoing, with national and international aid agencies working to provide relief to those affected by the storm. This includes distributing food, water, and medical supplies to communities still stranded by the floods.

The tourism industry, along with government bodies, is actively involved in coordinating efforts to ensure that tourists in affected areas are safely evacuated or relocated. Many hotels in the capital have opened their doors to assist tourists, and emergency services have been deployed to help visitors stranded by the natural disaster.

Economic Impact on Sri Lanka’s Tourism Sector

The tourism industry is a vital part of Sri Lanka’s economy, with millions of international visitors arriving each year to explore the island’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. The impact of Cyclone Ditwah on the sector has resulted in an immediate decline in visitor numbers, and the financial implications are significant for both tourism operators and local businesses that rely on the industry.

The government and tourism boards are focusing on recovery efforts and re-establishing travel routes to facilitate the return of visitors once the situation stabilizes. The emphasis is on rebuilding infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges, to ensure the smooth flow of tourism once the immediate crisis is over. Many regions affected by the storm are expected to take time to recover, but Sri Lanka’s resilience and longstanding appeal as a cultural and natural tourism destination will likely help the industry bounce back.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery for Sri Lanka Tourism

The tourism sector in Sri Lanka is expected to face challenges in the coming months, particularly in the regions most affected by Cyclone Ditwah. However, once recovery efforts are completed, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is likely to see a resurgence as conditions improve and accessibility to key tourist destinations is restored. The government is already working on implementing measures to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents in future disasters.

With the country’s commitment to rebuilding and the growing international interest in Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural attractions, the tourism sector is poised to recover in the long term. However, the short-term disruption caused by the cyclone will require a concerted effort from tourism bodies, local businesses, and the government to restore normalcy and reassure travelers of the safety and stability of visiting Sri Lanka.