Sri Lanka’s Growing Appeal: A Favorite Destination for Indian Holidaymakers

Published on December 28, 2025

Sri Lanka has registered a breathtaking increase in popularity among Indian holiday-goers and has emerged as the third-most booked international destination for the holiday season of 2025. This newest craze among the nations of this island paradise has been capped by the newest figures presented by MakeMyTrip, the leading holiday booking agency of India, based on their assessment of holiday bookings between the 20th of December and January of the ensuing year of 2026.

Sri Lanka’s Rising Popularity Among Indian Tourists

For many years, Sri Lanka has been known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and scenic landscapes. However, in 2025, the island nation has firmly established itself as a favorite among Indian tourists, coming in third place for the most popular overseas destinations, according to the latest MakeMyTrip booking trends. This marks a major leap for Sri Lanka, which was not traditionally considered one of the top contenders for Indian travelers’ holiday plans.

The natural beauty of Sri Lanka, including its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking mountain ranges, has long been an allure for international tourists. The Sri Lankan coastline with places like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna has particularly gained traction among those seeking a relaxing beach vacation. Beyond its beaches, Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, including its ancient ruins such as the Sigiriya rock fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers interested in history and architecture.

Thailand Takes the Lead, UAE Comes in Second

While Sri Lanka has emerged as the third most-booked destination by Indian tourists, Thailand still claims the top spot, maintaining its position as the most popular overseas destination for travelers from India. Thailand’s well-established reputation as a paradise for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in vibrant city life continues to make it a favorite among Indian families, solo travelers, and honeymooners alike. Popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi remain strong attractions.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly Dubai, has also maintained its place as the second most preferred destination for Indian tourists. Known for its luxurious shopping malls, opulent hotels, and world-class entertainment, the UAE continues to draw Indian travelers looking for a mix of leisure, shopping, and high-end experiences.

Vietnam Sees Remarkable Growth in Popularity

In a surprise shift, Vietnam has seen a significant rise in bookings from Indian tourists, moving from seventh place last year to fourth in 2025. The country’s growing appeal can be attributed to its picturesque landscapes, cultural richness, and growing international recognition as an affordable destination offering vibrant city experiences and serene countryside escapes. Cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang are attracting travelers looking for unique cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere that is both exotic and accessible.

Sri Lanka’s Appeal: Proximity, Culture, and Nature

Several factors contribute to Sri Lanka’s rise as a preferred holiday destination for Indian tourists. Proximity plays a crucial role. Sri Lanka’s close geographical location to India makes it a highly accessible destination, with frequent flight connections from various Indian cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The relatively short flight times, often around two to three hours, make it an ideal weekend getaway or a short vacation destination for Indian travelers.

Additionally, Sri Lanka’s cultural and historical offerings have gained significant attention. For Indian tourists, Sri Lanka shares many cultural and religious similarities, particularly within the Buddhist tradition. Historical landmarks such as the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the Polonnaruwa ancient city resonate deeply with Indian travelers interested in exploring South Asia’s rich heritage. For those with an interest in wildlife, Sri Lanka’s national parks, such as Yala and Udawalawe, offer the chance to experience incredible safaris and encounter exotic wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.

Sri Lanka’s affordable travel options have also made it attractive to Indian tourists. The country offers a variety of options catering to different budget ranges—from luxury resorts to budget-friendly homestays, making it suitable for all types of travelers. This accessibility, combined with the scenic beauty, cultural offerings, and proximity to India, has contributed to Sri Lanka’s rise in the rankings.

Other Popular Destinations Among Indian Tourists

While Sri Lanka’s rise has been notable, other destinations continue to attract significant numbers of Indian tourists as well. Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom have consistently ranked among the most-booked international destinations. These countries offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural tours and nature excursions to shopping and entertainment.

The United States also remains a major attraction for Indian travelers, especially with its iconic cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, which appeal to those interested in a more cosmopolitan experience. Similarly, Hong Kong, with its mix of modernity and tradition, continues to be a popular choice for those traveling to Asia.

The Future of Indian Tourism to Sri Lanka

As the global tourism industry recovers and more Indian travelers look beyond domestic destinations, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is expected to continue its growth. Tourism experts believe that the island’s increasing appeal can be sustained through continued investment in infrastructure, the promotion of eco-tourism, and strengthening cultural exchanges with India.

Sri Lanka’s potential for growth lies in its ability to adapt and cater to the changing preferences of Indian travelers. With growing awareness of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and proximity, the nation is well-positioned to maintain its place as one of the most popular international travel destinations for Indian tourists. Whether it’s for a cultural journey, a nature-filled adventure, or a relaxing beach holiday, Sri Lanka is sure to remain a key player in the travel plans of Indian tourists for years to come.

A Strong Tourism Future

The growing popularity of Sri Lanka as one of the favorite destinations of Indian tourists presents the begining of a glorious period in the history of the Sri Lankan tourism sector. With natural resources, history, and bonding relationships between the country and the state of India, the country is steadily progressing to becoming one of the favorite destinations of people seeking exciting travel experiences. As the tourism sector continues to mature, the potential of the country to attract people will be maximized.