Tourist arrivals cross 900,000 milestone despite August slowdown

• First 30 days of August welcome 132,795 tourists, pushing YTD to 900,708
• August misses monthly target of 149,075 as average daily influx drops from 5,000 to below 4,500
• India remains single largest source market YTD and in August followed by UK, China 
• China’s progress on YTD basis stands out, secures sixth largest source market 

By Charumini de Silva

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry reached a significant milestone surpassing the 900,000 arrivals mark after three years, despite the sudden slowdown in visitors towards the latter part of August.

The surpassing of 900,000 arrivals signifies the largest influx of tourists to Sri Lanka since 2019.

The notable slowdown in arrivals during the latter half of August has cast doubt on the feasibility of reaching the monthly target of 149,075 arrivals. “It is projected that the month will end with around 11,000 fewer arrivals than initially anticipated,” Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman Priantha Fernando told the Daily FT.

The daily average of visitors, which had exceeded 5,000 during the earlier weeks of August, has now dipped below 4,500. 

During the first 30 days of August, a total of 132,795 tourists arrived, contributing to a cumulative year-to-date arrivals figure of 900,708. 

In terms of source markets, India maintains its position as the primary contributor to August influx of tourists and retains its status as the leading source market YTD. Meanwhile, the UK, China, Germany, and Russia emerged as the top source markets during August. 

China’s progress on a year-to-date basis stands out, reflecting the increasing appeal of Sri Lanka’s offerings among Chinese travellers.

Sri Lanka is targeting to end year with over 1.55 million tourists this year.

Fernando also said SLTDA’s initiative to temporary register home-stays ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 listed 550 responses to cater to the high accommodation demand in Kandy district.