Sri Lanka’s Tourism Boom Continues in 2025 as Air Astana Launches New Flights, Connecting Almaty to Colombo and Unlocking a New Travel Corridor

Published on December 30, 2025

Sri Lanka has officially entered a new phase in its tourism revival with the arrival of the inaugural flight operated by Air Astana on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. This special flight, arriving from Kazakhstan, marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka Tourism as it underscores the country’s ongoing recovery and success in attracting international travelers. As the country continues to grow in popularity as a top travel destination in South Asia, this new route connecting Almaty to Colombo plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s efforts to expand its tourism reach in the 2025/2026 winter season.

The arrival of Air Astana’s flight from Kazakhstan is a reflection of the increasing global interest in Sri Lanka as a year-round destination. With nearly 2.3 million tourist arrivals in 2025, Sri Lanka has been steadily regaining its position as a must-visit destination. This new route further solidifies the country’s appeal, offering convenient access for travelers from Central Asia to explore Sri Lanka’s rich culture, pristine beaches, and diverse landscapes.

Air Astana’s twice-weekly flights will operate on Mondays and Thursdays, connecting Almaty directly to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. The inaugural flight carried 166 passengers aboard an Airbus A321, signaling the airline’s commitment to boosting Sri Lanka’s international connectivity. This marks the first time Kazakhstan has been directly linked to Sri Lanka by Air Astana, expanding the island’s tourism network.

Sri Lanka offers a dynamic tourism experience, with something for every type of traveler. From historical sites like the Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the tropical beauty of its beaches, Sri Lanka promises visitors a range of adventures and unforgettable memories. The launch of this new flight route is a key step in making Sri Lanka more accessible, not just for regional travelers, but also for those coming from further afield.

Sri Lanka’s Robust Tourism Growth in 2025: What You Need to Know

In 2025, Sri Lanka recorded 2,298,987 international tourist arrivals, showcasing the country’s strong tourism rebound after the global pandemic. With the arrival of Air Astana’s inaugural flight, Sri Lanka continues to prove that it is one of the most exciting destinations in Asia, offering a 365-day tourism experience. The significance of Air Astana’s new route cannot be overstated.

• Increased Tourist Arrivals: With nearly 2.3 million tourists visiting Sri Lanka in 2025, the country’s tourism industry is booming, with more international travelers discovering the diverse attractions the island offers.
• The Air Astana Connection: Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s national carrier, has launched twice-weekly flights from Almaty to Colombo, connecting Kazakhstan with Sri Lanka for the first time on this scale. These flights will operate on Mondays and Thursdays, making travel between the two countries more accessible.
• Airbus A321 Service: The inaugural flight carried 166 passengers aboard an Airbus A321, a symbol of the airline’s commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka’s international connectivity. This service will continue until March 2026.

Sri Lanka’s Diverse Offerings: A Year-Round Destination

Sri Lanka offers a unique travel experience that spans the entire year, with travelers able to enjoy multiple types of adventures in one trip. From cultural heritage sites to scenic landscapes and pristine beaches, Sri Lanka’s diversity is its biggest draw. The country’s accessibility from key international markets, including Kazakhstan, makes it an attractive destination for travelers looking to explore South Asia.

• Cultural Richness: Sri Lanka is home to ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and vibrant cities like Colombo. The country’s deep cultural roots and spiritual attractions appeal to travelers seeking a mix of history and modernity.
• Natural Beauty: From the lush tea plantations in the central hills to the beautiful beaches of the South and West coasts, Sri Lanka’s landscapes offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you prefer hiking through rainforests, surfing along the coast, or relaxing in a beachfront resort, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for nature lovers.
• Adventure Tourism: Sri Lanka also caters to the thrill-seeker, offering exciting opportunities for wildlife safaris, trekking, and watersports. Yala National Park, one of the island’s largest wildlife reserves, is home to leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Key Attractions to Explore in Sri Lanka

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient rock fortress offers panoramic views and historical significance, drawing visitors interested in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
• Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth: Kandy is an important cultural city in Sri Lanka, with the Temple of the Tooth holding sacred Buddhist relics and offering insights into the country’s spiritual history.
• Colombo: The vibrant capital of Sri Lanka is a bustling urban center offering diverse experiences, from shopping at Pettah Market to enjoying the seaside promenade at Galle Face Green.

Air Astana’s Strategic Role in Boosting Sri Lanka’s Tourism

The introduction of Air Astana’s direct flights between Almaty and Colombo strengthens Sri Lanka’s tourism position within the region. These flights facilitate easier access for travelers from Kazakhstan and Central Asia, who are now able to experience Sri Lanka’s charm with greater convenience.

• Kazakhstan-Sri Lanka Connectivity: Before the introduction of Air Astana’s new route, travelers from Kazakhstan had limited direct access to Sri Lanka. The twice-weekly flights from Almaty make it much more feasible for tourists from Kazakhstan to visit the island, opening up a new stream of potential visitors from Central Asia.
• Increased Regional Air Connectivity: The new service strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a hub for regional and international tourism, not only attracting visitors from Kazakhstan but also from neighboring countries in Central Asia and beyond.

What This Means for Sri Lanka’s Economy and Tourism Industry

The arrival of nearly 2.3 million international visitors in 2025 is a testament to the importance of tourism in Sri Lanka’s economy. The increase in tourist numbers has translated into greater revenue for local businesses, hotels, airlines, and other sectors reliant on tourism.

• Boost to Local Businesses: With tourism contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy, the continued rise in international arrivals helps to support local businesses, particularly in hospitality, travel services, and local crafts.
• Job Creation and Economic Growth: The influx of international tourists creates jobs in various sectors, including the hospitality industry, transportation services, and local attractions. As tourism continues to grow, Sri Lanka is expected to see further job creation and economic development.
• Government Support for Tourism: Sri Lanka Tourism has been actively working to promote the country’s diverse offerings to international markets, ensuring that the country remains competitive as a top tourist destination in Asia.

The Future of Sri Lanka Tourism: What’s Next?

As the country looks forward to 2026 and beyond, Sri Lanka Tourism is poised to continue expanding its reach and enhancing the traveler experience. The new Air Astana route is just the beginning, as the country continues to invest in improving infrastructure, services, and accessibility.

• Infrastructure Development: Sri Lanka is focusing on improving its tourism infrastructure, particularly at major airports like Bandaranaike International, to handle the growing volume of international visitors.
• Sustainability in Tourism: Sri Lanka is also investing in sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural environment and promote eco-friendly tourism, which is expected to appeal to a new generation of environmentally conscious travelers.
• New Markets and Partnerships: The government is targeting new international markets, including expanding its appeal to North America and Europe, while continuing to strengthen partnerships with regional airlines and travel agencies.

Conclusion: Sri Lanka’s Bright Future as a Premier Travel Destination

With its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and an ever-expanding international reach, Sri Lanka is rapidly becoming one of South Asia’s most sought-after destinations. The arrival of Air Astana’s inaugural flight is a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s tourism growth story, marking a new chapter in the country’s appeal to international travelers. From cultural attractions to thrilling adventures, Sri Lanka offers something for every type of traveler. As Sri Lanka continues to recover and expand its tourism sector, it is clear that the island nation is set to remain a favorite global destination for years to come.