Sri Lanka’s Tourism Sector Celebrates Record-Breaking 2.2M Visitors in 2025
In 2025, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry experienced a remarkable surge, welcoming 2.208 million tourists by December 15. This figure surpasses the previous year’s total of 2.05 million visitors, showcasing the island nation’s robust recovery and its escalating global appeal as a top-tier destination.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) revealed that December alone saw an influx of over 50,222 visitors. India emerged as the leading source market, contributing to 485,249 arrivals throughout the year. Other significant markets included:
- Russia: 164,013 arrivals
- Germany: 136,081 arrivals
- United Kingdom: 195,565 arrivals
- China: 124,298 arrivals
Despite facing challenges such as Cyclone Ditwah, the tourism sector displayed remarkable resilience. Over 25,000 tourists arrived during and in the aftermath of the natural disaster. Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions continue to captivate international travelers. These include:
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura
- Pristine beaches
- Wildlife parks
These attractions offer a range of cultural, eco-tourism, and wellness experiences that continue to draw in visitors from around the globe.
Source: Travel and Tour World