Sri Lanka’s Tourism Sector Surges in Early 2025 – Q1 sees strong growth in earnings and arrivals, signalling a stable recovery

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry witnessed a robust start to 2025, recording over 722,000 international arrivals between January and March, up 13.6% year-on-year. According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the country also generated $1.1 billion in tourism earnings during the first quarter, marking a 9.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This resurgence has been attributed to streamlined visa policies, renewed global travel confidence, and heightened demand for the island’s cultural and coastal attractions.

Travellers are once again flocking to Sri Lanka’s vibrant coastal cities, cultural hotspots, and lush inland retreats. Destinations like Sigiriya, Ella, and Kandy are especially popular for their immersive experiences. Nestled near these attractions, Habarana Village by Cinnamon offers an ideal base for exploring the Cultural Triangle, making it a favourite among those seeking a tranquil Sri Lanka resort escape.

This surge in tourism, fueled by improved connectivity, streamlined visas, and global promotions, positions Sri Lanka to exceed pre-pandemic visitor levels by year-end. With continued investment in infrastructure and marketing, the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors are poised for sustained growth throughout 2025 and beyond.