Tourist arrivals have crossed the 1.1 million mark during the first six months of the year, highlighting the continued recovery of the country’s tourism industry and its contribution to economic activity.
According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), a total of 1,104,354 visitors arrived in the country between January 1 and June 21. The figures show that tourism remains one of the key sectors generating foreign exchange and supporting businesses connected to travel and hospitality.
The latest data also revealed that 82,332 tourists arrived between June 1 and June 21. India continued to dominate as the largest source market during the month, contributing 31,158 visitors during the first 21 days of June.
The United Kingdom ranked as the second-largest source market for June with 6,658 arrivals. China followed in third place with 5,178 visitors. The figures indicate continued interest from major international markets despite global economic uncertainties and changing travel patterns.
Full Numbers:
Looking at the overall performance for the year, India remained the largest contributor to the tourism sector. A total of 281,418 Indian tourists visited the country between January 1 and June 21.
The United Kingdom secured the second position with 104,751 arrivals. Russia ranked third with 76,963 visitors during the same period.
Tourism industry stakeholders closely monitor these source markets because they contribute heavily to hotel occupancy, airline traffic, transport services, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses. Strong arrivals from India are particularly important due to the country’s geographic proximity and growing outbound travel market.
Data:
Meanwhile, February recorded the highest monthly arrival figure so far this year. According to SLTDA statistics, 279,328 tourists visited during the month, making it the strongest-performing month within the first half of the year.
The latest arrival figures come as tourism authorities and industry operators continue efforts to attract more visitors during the second half of the year. Maintaining growth in key markets while expanding arrivals from emerging destinations will be important if the industry hopes to achieve its annual tourism targets.
With more than 1.1 million visitors already recorded before the end of June, the sector remains on track to play a major role in supporting economic activity, employment, and foreign exchange earnings throughout the remainder of the year.
Last modified: June 24, 2026
