Sri Lanka Tourism Boosts Indian Engagement with Dynamic Networking Events

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Sri Lanka Tourism is intensifying its promotional efforts in India, focusing on Kolkata as a key market. On July 10, 2024, Sri Lanka Tourism will host a networking evening on a cruise over the Ganges, bringing together Kolkata’s travel agents, industry leaders, and media with a strong delegation from Sri Lanka, including the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB). Around 30 Destination Management Companies (Leisure and MICE), leading hotels, resorts, homestays, tour operators, and other service providers from Sri Lanka will participate.

The event aims to strengthen ties between Sri Lanka and India, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships in the tourism sector. A significant increase in Indian visitors has boosted Sri Lankan tourism, with 198,161 Indian tourists visiting from January to July 7, 2024.

In June 2024, Sri Lanka conducted B2B roadshows and networking events in Indore, Vadodara, and Surat, aiming to attract more visitors from Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat and position Sri Lanka as a year-round destination. These events highlighted Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions and tourism progress, reinforcing connections with India.

Honourable Minister Harin Fernando expressed gratitude to India for its support in Sri Lanka’s tourism development. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s economic progress and impressive tourism earnings, which exceeded $2 billion in 2023 and surpassed $1.25 billion by April 2024. With a goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists in 2024, Sri Lanka launched a global marketing campaign, “You’ll Come Back for More,” and promoted its attractions at major international events.

Chalaka D. Gajabahu, Chairman of SLTPB, emphasized tourism’s significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s economy and its growth beyond beach tourism to include sports, culture, spirituality, and history. Sri Lanka has strengthened its presence in India with B2B roadshows and participation in major travel trade shows, and has also targeted the West and Middle East.

Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of SLCB, highlighted Sri Lanka’s rise as a preferred MICE destination, with enhanced venues and accessibility attracting corporate events. The MICE sector saw success with the 3rd MICE expo in May 2024, and India remains a key market for MICE travel, aiming for significant revenue growth.

The networking evening will showcase Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging travelers to revisit this captivating island destination.