Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues its strong rebound, with February 2026 marking the highest monthly tourist arrivals in the nation’s history. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), 279,328 visitors entered the country during the month, reflecting a 16.2% increase compared to February 2025.
Key Source Markets
The surge was driven by strong inflows from several countries:
• India – 47,679 visitors (largest contributor)
• United Kingdom – 30,788 visitors
• Russia – 23,099 visitors
• Germany – 22,566 visitors
• China – 20,180 visitors
• France – 17,174 visitors
On February 12, 2026, Sri Lanka recorded its highest-ever single-day arrivals, welcoming 12,731 tourists.
Boost from ICC T20 World Cup
Arrivals were significantly boosted by the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup tournament matches in Colombo, which attracted thousands of cricket fans from across the globe. The combination of sporting excitement and Sri Lanka’s renowned hospitality created a vibrant atmosphere that further elevated the country’s appeal as a travel destination.
Year-to-Date Performance
By the end of February, total arrivals for 2026 reached 556,655 tourists, underscoring the sector’s momentum. India, the UK, and Russia remain the top three source markets for the year so far.
• Economic boost: Tourism remains a vital pillar of Sri Lanka’s economy, supporting jobs and foreign exchange earnings.
• Market diversification: While India leads, the rise in arrivals from Europe and China highlights Sri Lanka’s growing global appeal.
• Positive outlook: With record-breaking numbers early in the year, stakeholders anticipate strong performance in upcoming travel seasons.
