Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in 2025, with over 1.05 million international arrivals recorded by May, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA). This growth is driven largely by visitors from India, Russia, and the UK, highlighting the country’s robust post-pandemic recovery and rising global appeal.
India continues to lead, with 216,422 arrivals, making it the top contributor. Russia follows with 111,285 visitors, while the UK accounts for 100,014 tourists. Other major contributors include Germany (71,517), China (59,386), France (58,418), Australia (46,195), United States (30,288), Bangladesh (30,028), Poland (25,132), Netherlands (24,465), Canada (20,942), Italy (18,024), Japan (14,973), Maldives (14,885), Switzerland (14,417), Spain (13,155), Israel (10,736), Czech Republic (10,057), and Malaysia (9,886). Tourists from other countries contributed 173,540 arrivals.
The positive momentum carried into May, which saw 132,919 foreign arrivals—an 18.5% increase compared to May 2024. Early June figures further reinforce this trend, with 21,293 tourists arriving in the first five days alone. India again dominates, contributing 6,014 arrivals, or 28.2% of the total during this period.
From 01st to 10th June 2025, India remained the top source market with 12,362 tourists (28.1%), followed by the United Kingdom (3,740 / 8.5%), Bangladesh (2,717 / 6.2%), Germany (2,439 / 5.5%), China (2,403 / 5.5%), Australia (2,169 / 4.9%), Maldives (1,589 / 3.6%), France (1,306 / 3.0%), United States (1,297 / 3.0%), and Canada (1,065 / 2.4%). Other markets collectively contributed 12,875 tourists, bringing the total for the 10-day period to 43,962.
Indian travellers remain the largest contingent, drawn by Sri Lanka’s cultural familiarity, geographic proximity, and affordability. Factors such as short flight times, budget-friendly stays, and cuisine aligned with Indian tastes further strengthen its position as a preferred destination for Indian nationals.
