Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues to attract travellers from around the world, with more than 138,000 visitors arriving so far in July, pushing the country’s total tourist arrivals for 2026 beyond 1.28 million.
The latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) show that 138,730 tourists have visited the country during July so far. While the month has not yet reached last year’s July total, the steady inflow of visitors keeps tourism among the country’s strongest sources of foreign income.
Who are the Biggest Source of Tourists?
India continued to be Sri Lanka’s largest tourism market in July, with 31,734 Indian travellers, accounting for 23% of all arrivals during the month.
The United Kingdom remained the second-largest market with 14,949 visitors, followed by China (8,484), the Netherlands (8,415) and Australia (7,419).
These countries have consistently ranked among Sri Lanka’s key tourism markets, helping hotels, restaurants, transport providers and many small businesses that depend on visitor spending.
More Than 1.28 Million Tourists This Year
With the latest July figures included, Sri Lanka has now welcomed 1,285,303 tourists since the beginning of 2026.
India continues to dominate annual arrivals with 325,417 visitors, while the United Kingdom has contributed 123,526 tourists and China has recorded 84,655 arrivals so far this year.
The figures highlight the continued importance of these three markets in supporting Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery and earning valuable foreign exchange for the country.
What is the comparison?
Although tourist arrivals remain healthy, this July has not yet matched the same period last year.
In July 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed 200,244 tourists, meaning this year’s total still has ground to cover before reaching that level.
However, tourism officials will be hoping for a stronger finish to the month as more travellers arrive during the remaining days.
For businesses linked to tourism, including hotels, tour operators, transport services, restaurants and retail shops, every additional visitor brings more opportunities to earn income and support employment across the country.
Last modified: July 26, 2026
