The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has reported that a total of 277,327 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka in January 2026. According to the authority, this marks the highest number of tourists to visit the country in a single calendar month in Sri Lanka’s history. The figures also show an increase of nearly 10%
SLTDA launches special programme to boost tourism targets
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has launched a special programme aimed at achieving the country’s tourism targets for this year, SLTDA Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam said. Addressing the media, Hewawasam stated that a series of promotional campaigns are being carried out targeting European markets in a bid to attract more tourists during off-peak seasons.
Sri Lanka targets US $ 4.5bn revenue, 2.7mn arrivals in 2026 with pivot to high-spending markets
Sri Lanka targets US $ 4.5bn revenue, 2.7mn arrivals in 2026 with pivot to high-spending markets
2026-01-05T07:24:52+00:00
News
Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities have set an ambitious revenue target of US $ 4.5 billion for 2026, aiming to attract 2.7 million visitors by shifting focus toward high-spending demographics and untapped geographical markets to overcome the recent revenue stagnation.The announcement follows a historic milestone on December 29, when the island nation welcomed its highest-ever number
Luxury Cruise Ship with 400 passengers arrives in Colombo
A luxury cruise ship belonging to the Ritz-Carlton fleet, carrying 400 passengers, arrived on the 14th of December at the Colombo Port. Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe noted that the arrival of such a large passenger cruise ship in the country is a significant boost to the tourism industry, especially given the recent challenges
Jetstar to launch Australia’s only low-cost direct flights to Sri Lanka
Jetstar to launch Australia’s only low-cost direct flights to Sri Lanka
2026-01-05T07:24:00+00:00
News
Jetstar will take off for the first time from Australia to Sri Lanka in August next year, with the launch of the only direct low-cost service from Melbourne to the South Asian nation’s capital, Colombo. From 25 August 2026, Jetstar will become the first Australian airline to operate this route, flying three times a week
ITC Ratnadipa Awarded Prestigious 5-Star Classification by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority
ITC Ratnadipa Awarded Prestigious 5-Star Classification by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority
2026-01-05T07:23:50+00:00
News
ITC Ratnadipa proudly announces that it has been awarded the coveted 5-Star Classification Certificate by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), reaffirming its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and sustainable luxury. The certificate was formally presented by Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of SLTDA & SLTPB, and accepted by Mr. Keenan McKenzie, Area Manager –