Sri Lanka is aiming to establish itself as a premier global tourism destination with a strategic plan that emphasizes inclusive growth, international partnerships, and city branding.
Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe highlighted Sri Lanka’s recent international recognitions, including Lonely Planet ranking the Colombo to Badulla train journey among the world’s best and BBC Travel featuring Sri Lanka in its “25 Best Places to Travel in 2025” list. Other accolades include Sigiriya being named the “World’s Most Welcoming City” by Booking.com and the Pekoe Trail earning a spot in TIME’s “World’s Greatest Places of 2025.”
The Government’s tourism strategy focuses on developing 100 rural destinations with a Rs. 100 million investment, enhancing urban tourism with Rs. 500 million in funding, and attracting foreign investments to boost infrastructure and innovative experiences. The goal is to welcome 5 million tourists by 2030 while ensuring sustainable and community-driven growth.