Sri Lanka Surpasses 1 Million Tourist Arrivals Ahead of Schedule in 2025

Tourism bounces back stronger — Sri Lanka reclaims its pre-pandemic momentum.

Sri Lanka has recorded over 1 million international tourist arrivals for 2025 by May 23, nearly a month earlier than in 2024, signalling a strong recovery in its tourism sector. According to provisional figures from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), the country welcomed 1,006,097 visitors between January 1 and May 25.

The milestone mirrors pre-pandemic levels last seen in 2018. May alone saw 109,213 arrivals, with India leading as the top source market, followed by the UK and China. Despite the seasonal slowdown during the April–June off-peak period, the numbers mark steady progress toward Sri Lanka’s annual goal of 3 million arrivals.

Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath acknowledged the achievement on social media, thanking industry stakeholders.

While there was no official ceremony to mark the milestone, Sri Lanka’s tourism growth remains on track, with properties like Mandara Rosen Kataragama, a trusted and preferred all inclusive hotel in Sri Lanka, continuing to appeal to travellers seeking cultural richness and comfort.