Sri Lanka Strengthens Tourism Ties with India: Roadshows in Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai, Here Is What You Need To Know

Published on October 15, 2025

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) has wrapped up a series of highly successful roadshows in Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai, aiming to strengthen tourism ties with India, which continues to be the country’s largest source market. From October 6 to October 10, 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed over 400 travel agents, tour operators, and media representatives to showcase the island’s diverse tourism offerings, including cultural experiences, pristine beaches, and world-class hospitality.

As India remains the leading contributor to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, the roadshows were designed to highlight the growth and resilience of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which has seen remarkable growth in the past year. The roadshows, which included B2B meetings and networking evenings, served to reinforce Sri Lanka’s position as a year-round destination for tourists from Southern India. These events marked an important chapter in the bilateral tourism relations between the two countries, which are closely connected by culture, history, and shared interests in tourism.

Record-Breaking Surge in Indian Tourists to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has seen a record-breaking surge in arrivals, particularly from India, with over 375,292 Indian visitors recorded between January and September 2025. This represents a 22% share of the total tourism arrivals, showcasing India’s pivotal role as a source market. In total, Sri Lanka welcomed 1,725,494 tourists in the same period, with tourism earnings surpassing USD 2.3 billion by August 2025.

As the largest source of international tourists to Sri Lanka, Indian travelers are deeply connected to the island’s cultural heritage and its offerings, including beaches, temples, and adventure tourism. The roadshows featured over 39 Sri Lankan stakeholders, including Destination Management Companies, hotels, resorts, tour operators, and other service providers, who interacted directly with their Indian counterparts. These collaborations are set to further fuel tourism growth by enhancing the marketing efforts targeting Indian travelers.

Enhancing Connectivity: SriLankan Airlines and Indian Carriers Step Up Their Offerings

The air connectivity between Sri Lanka and India plays a crucial role in facilitating tourism between the two countries. SriLankan Airlines is one of the most significant players, with 88 flights weekly connecting Sri Lanka to 9 Indian cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Madurai, Trichy, and Thiruvananthapuram. The airline’s direct flights offer short travel times, making Sri Lanka an attractive and accessible destination for Indian tourists.

In addition to SriLankan Airlines, Indigo and Air India also provide extensive connectivity, ensuring that travelers from Southern India have seamless access to Sri Lanka. The growth in direct flights has contributed significantly to the rise in the number of Indian tourists traveling to Sri Lanka, with an increasing focus on leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.

Cultural Immersion and Sri Lankan Heritage: Highlights of the Roadshow Events

During the roadshow events in Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai, participants were treated to a vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. A Sri Lankan cultural dance troupe performed throughout the events, offering a colorful glimpse into the island’s artistic traditions. This cultural immersion was aimed at attracting Indian tourists by showcasing the diversity and appeal of Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings.

The B2B meetings provided a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss the growing demand for tourism packages that cater to a variety of travelers, including those seeking family holidays, romantic getaways, adventure tourism, and wellness retreats. The Networking Evenings also enabled Sri Lankan tourism representatives to build strong relationships with Indian travel agents, paving the way for more tailored travel packages to attract more visitors from India.

Sri Lanka: A Premier Year-Round Destination for All Types of Travelers

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is diverse, offering something for every type of traveler. From its sun-kissed beaches to ancient temples, the island nation is a hub for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. With Sri Lanka Tourism’s intensified promotional efforts, Indian travelers now have the opportunity to explore a variety of attractions, such as:

• Pristine beaches and luxury resorts for beach lovers.
• Cultural and spiritual heritage sites like Anuradhapura and Kandy.
• Adventure tourism with hiking and wildlife safaris in Yala National Park.
• World-class spas and wellness resorts catering to those seeking rejuvenation.

The roadshow’s focus on highlighting these attractions further reinforces Sri Lanka’s reputation as an all-year destination for family vacations, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike.

Key Takeaways from the Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshows:

• Record Arrival Numbers: 375,292 Indian tourists arrived in Sri Lanka in 2025, representing 22% of the total tourist arrivals.
• Increased Connectivity: With SriLankan Airlines, Indigo, and Air India offering regular flights to major cities in Southern India, traveling to Sri Lanka has never been easier.
• Cultural Showcase: The roadshows highlighted Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, with dance performances and presentations that connected Indian tourists to the island’s rich traditions.
• Strong Industry Collaboration: Over 39 Sri Lankan tourism stakeholders participated in B2B meetings, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in growing tourism.
• Diverse Tourism Offerings: From beaches to historical landmarks, Sri Lanka offers something for every type of traveler, whether seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion.

Quick Travel Tips for Indian Tourists Visiting Sri Lanka:

1. Visa-Free Entry: Indian passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry to Sri Lanka for short stays, making it easier for last-minute travel plans.
2. Book Flights in Advance: Ensure timely bookings with SriLankan Airlines or Indian carriers to secure the best travel deals, especially during peak seasons.
3. Explore Beyond the Beaches: Sri Lanka offers more than just beautiful beaches. Don’t miss out on historical temples, cultural festivals, and wildlife safaris.
4. Pack for the Weather: Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, so pack light and breathable clothes, and don’t forget sunscreen for your beach days.
5. Travel Insurance: Always consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons.