Sri Lanka Welcomes Over 94,000 International Tourists in First 11 Days of January 2026

Tourism Starts Strong in 2026

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has recorded an impressive start to the year, with official data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) showing 94,041 international tourist arrivals between January 1 and January 11, 2026.

This early-year performance reflects ongoing confidence in Sri Lanka as a top holiday destination and suggests a sustained rebound from recent global travel disruptions.

Top Source Markets Driving Growth

According to the SLTDA report, the majority of visitors originated from key global markets:

• India: 16,772 arrivals — the largest share, reflecting strong short-haul travel demand.
• Russia: 10,927 visitors, maintaining a solid long-haul contribution.
• United Kingdom: 8,676 tourists.
• Germany: 7,060 arrivals.
• Australia: 4,591 visitors.

These figures highlight Sri Lanka’s appeal across diverse source markets, with strong regional and international interest early in the travel season.

Why This Matters to Travelers and Tourism Services

For tour operators and travel planners featured on GoSriLanka.no, such early-year momentum means:

• Growing demand for curated tour packages and cultural experiences.
• Regulatory and service sectors are likely prioritizing quality travel infrastructure to match rising arrivals.
• Travel planning tips and updated itineraries can cater to both backpackers and premium travelers.

This trend reinforces Sri Lanka’s position as a must-visit destination in 2026, offering rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, hill station retreats, and vibrant local experiences.