Sri Lanka tourism sets new benchmark!
Felix Beslin Pereira, Reena Fernandez and Ann Cristina Pereira, a family from Thiruvananthapuram, India who arrived on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 162 as the symbolic 2,333,797th guests of the year – Pix by Lasantha Kumara
- Welcomes 2.33 millionth visitor in 2025, breaking previous all-time arrival record after seven years
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector reached a historic milestone yesterday as the country welcomed its 2,333,797th tourist for 2025, officially surpassing the previous all-time arrival record of 2,333,796 visitors set in 2018.
The milestone carries added significance when viewed against recent tourism trends. In 2018, Sri Lanka recorded its highest-ever tourist arrivals at 2,333,796, a record that stood for seven years.
The symbolic 2,333,797th visitors were Prof. Felix Beslin Pereira, Reena Fernandez, and Ann Cristina Pereira, a family from Thiruvananthapuram, India, who arrived on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 162. Their arrival was ceremoniously recognised at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), where Sri Lanka Tourism officials described the moment as both a personal celebration for the family and a collective triumph for the nation.
The achievement marks a decisive turning point for the industry, signalling not just recovery, but renewed growth and confidence in Sri Lanka as a leading destination in South Asia. In 2024, arrivals reached 2,053,465, reflecting a steady recovery from multiple crises. Surpassing both figures in 2025 underscores the resilience of the sector and its growing competitiveness in the regional tourism landscape.
Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath said the achievement symbolised the strength of the industry and the trust of global travellers. “This milestone is not just a number—it is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s resilience. Surpassing the 2018 record proves that our tourism industry is stronger than ever, thanks to the dedication of stakeholders and the trust of millions of visitors worldwide,” he said.
Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe noted that the record was achieved through collective effort, particularly during periods of adversity. He described tourism as the lifeblood of the country’s economy and culture, adding that the unity shown by hoteliers, guides, associations, and partners had enabled the sector to withstand challenges and build a sustainable future.
To read the full story, click on the link bellow;
https://www.ft.lk/top-story/Sri-Lanka-tourism-sets-new-benchmark/26-786265
