Sri Lanka welcomes 2 millionth tourist for 2024

Two millionth lucky tourist Prasan Ingkanunt from Thailand filming the traditional welcome for him at Bandaranaike International Airport yesterday

Prasan Ingkanunt (centre), his wife and sister with Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam

Sri Lanka yesterday marked the arrival of the two millionth tourist for 2024 achieving a new milestone for the first time since 2018.

The two millionth lucky tourist was Prasan Ingkanunt from Thailand who arrived on UL 403 for his first visit in Sri Lanka with his wife and sister. 

“This marks the first time since 2018—when the country recorded its highest-ever arrivals of 2.3 million—that such numbers have been reached. The achievement reflects the resilience of the tourism industry despite the challenges of the past five years,” Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau said.

The milestone tourists were accorded a special welcome on their arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport. Hosted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Airport Aviation Services Ltd., the event featured traditional dance performances and the presentation of special mementos. 

The past week recorded daily tourist arrivals exceeding 10,000—a figure expected to rise further towards the end of the month—the milestone underscores the success of combined efforts by the private sector stake holders and Sri Lanka Tourism in ensuring a robust holiday season. Promotional campaigns and collaborative strategies have helped pave the way for this achievement, signalling a positive outlook for the future of the industry.

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has faced significant ups and downs since 2019, beginning with the Easter attacks, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic and an economic downturn. Despite these hurdles, the country welcomed 1.4 million tourists in 2023, and the steady growth into 2024 highlights its ability to rebound and regain its status as a sought-after destination.

Strategic Government intervention played a key role in this progress, with the initial step taken by the newly elected Government resolving the online visa issues in September 2024 ensuring smooth travel for international visitors. The Government’s recognition of tourism as a priority industry underlines its commitment to fostering an inclusive economy, with ambitious targets of three million arrivals and $ 5 billion in revenue by 2025.

Sri Lanka’s rich diversity continues to captivate travelers worldwide, offering everything from sun-kissed beaches to lush mountains and exotic wildlife. The country’s efforts have been recognised globally, with 21 international tourism accolades in 2024 alone. These include Forbes Magazine naming Sri Lanka the fourth most popular solo travel destination, National Geographic highlighting the Pekoe Trail as one of the world’s best hiking experiences, and the Wanderlust Gold Award for Most Desirable Island.

Looking ahead, the Government’s strategic direction focuses on creating a sustainable and inclusive tourism economy. Plans to extend free visas to travelers from 39 countries next year aim to further incentivise travel to Sri Lanka. Combined with robust PR and digital campaigns targeting key source markets, the industry is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond. 

Sri Lanka’s two millionth tourist arrival is more than just a milestone—it is a testament to the enduring appeal of this island paradise and the collective efforts of its people and institutions. With continued focus and innovation, Sri Lanka is poised to build on this success and solidify its place as a premier global travel destination.