Tourist arrivals have crossed 436,000 so far this year, pointing to a strong rebound in the tourism sector.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe said 436,000 visitors arrived between January 1 and February 15. The figure marks a sharp increase compared to the same period last year.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, he said the government will launch a global tourism promotion campaign targeting 15 international markets. Authorities have allocated nearly Rs. 2 billion for the programme.
The Deputy Minister said, “improved global perception has supported the rise in arrivals. He added that international sporting events, including T20 cricket tournaments, have helped attract more visitors, particularly to the capital.”
Hotel occupancy in Colombo has also strengthened. Ranasinghe said room demand in the city is now close to full capacity.
Tourism remains a key source of foreign exchange and a major contributor to employment. A sustained increase in arrivals could support hotel revenues, as well as aviation, transport services, and related sectors.
Officials expect the upcoming promotion campaign to further boost visitor numbers in the coming months.
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Last modified: February 20, 2026
