Mumbai : The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) organized the Sri Lanka Tourism Networking Evening in Mumbai, aimed at deepening tourism, trade, and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and India. The event brought together leading Indian tour operators, travel agents, MICE planners, corporates, airlines, and media representatives, along with members of Sri Lanka’s travel and tourism industry. The initiative served as a key platform for dialogue, collaboration, and business development, highlighting Sri Lanka’s growing appeal as a preferred destination for leisure, business, and weddings.

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry witnessed a remarkable resurgence in 2025, registering a record high of approximately 2.36 million international tourist arrivals the highest annual figure on record for the island nation. India continues to be the leading source market, contributing over 5,31,000 arrivals, accounting for nearly 27% of total tourist arrivals, more than double that of any other source market. These numbers underscore the deep cultural and travel affinity between India and Sri Lanka and reflect strengthened air connectivity and marketing linkages between the two countries.

The evening commenced with the Indian and Sri Lankan national anthems and the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by addresses from senior officials of SLTPB, and SriLankan Airlines. Speakers highlighted Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings from pristine beaches and cultural heritage to wildlife, wellness, and adventure and emphasized India’s vital contribution to Sri Lanka’s tourism rebound. Increased travel demand has also led carriers like SriLankan Airlines and Indian airlines to enhance flight frequencies across key Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, facilitating seamless travel for leisure and business travellers.

Adding a cultural vibrance to the event, guests enjoyed traditional Sri Lankan performances that showcased the island’s rich artistic heritage. The evening concluded with an engaging networking reception and dinner, offering participants an opportunity to exchange ideas, explore collaboration prospects, and experience authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. A raffle draw added a lively and interactive element to the evening, ensuring an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie.

With India firmly positioned as Sri Lanka’s top tourism source market, the SLTPB reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships, promoting destination awareness, and expanding multi-segment travel opportunities including leisure, MICE, weddings, and experiential travel. The initiative forms part of SLTPB’s broader strategic goal of achieving 3 million international arrivals in 2026, as Sri Lanka continues to attract global travellers and enhance its economic and cultural engagement with India.