Sri Lanka has achieved a significant milestone in its tourism sector, reaching a target of 1.2 million tourists by August 2024. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), the country welcomed 1,198,059 tourists during the first seven months of the year.
July saw a record-breaking 187,810 arrivals, marking the highest monthly total in the past four months. The trend continued into early August, with 26,889 tourists arriving from August 1-4, bringing the year-to-date total to 1,224,948.
This surge in arrivals coincides with the annual Esala Perahera festival, a major cultural and religious event that draws many international visitors.
Historical data from July and August 2018, when monthly tourist arrivals exceeded 200,000, highlights the positive recovery trend, contrasting with the disruptions experienced in recent years due to the Easter attacks, the Covid-19 pandemic, and economic challenges.