Sri Lanka Sees Continual Rise in Arrivals – Nations Looks to Reach Its 2023 Tourism Targets

Providing the local tourism industry with a vital boost, Sri Lanka has seen a significant rise in arrivals in the first few months of the year when compared with 2021. This bodes well for this Indian Ocean nation which is now optimistic about reaching its goals for tourism this year; it expects to welcome 1.55 million international travellers in 2023 with a revenue target set at 2.8 billion US dollars by the end of the year. Sri Lanka began the year with a positive start as it saw arrivals in January surpassing 100,000 which was the first time it did so in nine months.

This steady increase continued with over 54,000 travellers being recorded in the first 14 days in February. At the time, Russia was the leading source market followed by India; with China relaxing travel restrictions, more Chinese tourists are also expected this year which will no doubt boost the arrivals even more. Part of the allure of Sri Lanka is its rich history, culture and natural beauty which can be experienced at resorts in the mountainous hill country and hotels in Ahungalla along the island’s famed south coast; this includes properties like Heritance Ahungalla which offers an idyllic beachside escape which is much sought-after by travellers.