sri lanka tourism numbers

• Topics ›
• Sri Lanka ›

Sri Lanka Popular with International Tourists

Bombings in sri lanka.

The devastating bomb attacks on Sri Lankan churches and hotels this Easter Sunday could hit a country where tourism means big business once again. In the aftermath of the attacks that to date claimed the lives of 321 people, Sri Lanka is expecting a decline in international tourism as the country is deemed less than safe for visitors. Among the victims of the attacks are at least 38 foreigners among them Indian, British, Danish, Japanese, U.S.-American, Saudi, Dutch, Chinese, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, Australian and Bangladeshi nationals. In recent years, the number of foreign visitors to the island south of India has risen steadily, as data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority shows. Around 2.3 million international tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2018. Beach resorts as well as cultural sights have been drawing more and more visitors to the country since the end of the civil war in 2009.

Description

This chart shows the development of international tourism in Sri Lanka between 2014 and 2018.

Can I integrate infographics into my blog or website?

Yes, Statista allows the easy integration of many infographics on other websites. Simply copy the HTML code that is shown for the relevant statistic in order to integrate it. Our standard is 660 pixels, but you can customize how the statistic is displayed to suit your site by setting the width and the display size. Please note that the code must be integrated into the HTML code (not only the text) for WordPress pages and other CMS sites.

Infographic Newsletter

Statista offers daily infographics about trending topics, covering: Economy & Finance , Politics & Society , Tech & Media , Health & Environment , Consumer , Sports and many more.

Related Infographics

Citizenship amendment act, india sees relatively few refugees from caa countries, belt and road initiative, china's belt and road rescue lending soars, debt to china, the countries bailed out by china, the world's largest tea markets, who drinks tea, electric cars, combustion going bust: global phase-outs of gasoline cars, china now grows more corn than rice, shipping industry, where container shipping is flourishing, iran protests, vpns surge amid protests, conflict and war in 2022, sri lanka's economic crisis, confidence in government plummets in sri lanka, coronavirus pandemic, how governments responded to covid-19, carbon neutrality, the road to net zero.

• Who may use the "Chart of the Day"? The Statista "Chart of the Day", made available under the Creative Commons License CC BY-ND 3.0, may be used and displayed without charge by all commercial and non-commercial websites. Use is, however, only permitted with proper attribution to Statista. When publishing one of these graphics, please include a backlink to the respective infographic URL. More Information
• Which topics are covered by the "Chart of the Day"? The Statista "Chart of the Day" currently focuses on two sectors: "Media and Technology", updated daily and featuring the latest statistics from the media, internet, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries; and "Economy and Society", which current data from the United States and around the world relating to economic and political issues as well as sports and entertainment.
• Does Statista also create infographics in a customized design? For individual content and infographics in your Corporate Design, please visit our agency website www.statista.design

Any more questions?

Get in touch with us quickly and easily. we are happy to help.

Feel free to contact us anytime using our contact form or visit our FAQ page .

Statista Content & Design

Need infographics, animated videos, presentations, data research or social media charts?

More Information

The Statista Infographic Newsletter

Receive a new up-to-date issue every day for free.

• Our infographics team prepares current information in a clear and understandable format
• Relevant facts covering media, economy, e-commerce, and FMCG topics
• Use our newsletter overview to manage the topics that you have subscribed to

Tourism in Sri Lanka

Development of the tourism sector in sri lanka from 1995 to 2021.

Revenues from tourism

All data for Sri Lanka in detail

What are you looking for?

40+ sri lanka travel & tourism statistics [fresh for 2024].

Sri Lanka is a small country, but is teeming with such a rich culture, gorgeous natural landmarks, and many fun things to do .

It’s a backpacker-friendly destination and a true paradise for all the adventure seekers out there.

From the historical sites in Anuradhapura to the stunning beaches lining Trincomalee , there’s a lot to explore here.

But how many people actually come to this South Asian country?

How much does tourism contribute to their GDP?

Whether you’re planning a trip there or just wanting to understand more about its travel market, we’ve compiled a list of the most important and relevant statistics on Sri Lanka tourism.

Without further ado, let’s get started!

Sources : The source for each statistic is listed right below it, or you can head to the bottom of this post for all the references used.

Travellerspoint

What is the tourism growth rate in Sri Lanka?

The latest data in August 2023 shows that international tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka has increased 261.2% year-on-year compared to August 2022.

How many tourists visit Sri Lanka in 2023?

In April 2023, there were 105,498 monthly tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka. This was a 67.5% year-on-year increase from April 2022, when Sri Lanka saw only 62,980 tourist arrivals.

Is tourism increasing in Sri Lanka?

Compared to 2022, tourism is overall increasing in Sri Lanka, with the number of foreign arrivals growing 261.2% year-on-year in August 2023.

However, compared to pre-pandemic levels, overall tourism has yet to properly recover due to a number of factors.

What country visits Sri Lanka most?

India contributes the highest number of tourists to Sri Lanka, with 123 thousand arrivals in 2022, or 17.1% of all tourist arrivals.

Sri Lanka travel statistics at a glance

• In 2022, there were a total number of 719,978 tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka.
• The ratio of outbound trips to household in Sri Lanka was projected to grow from 29.4% in 2016 to 38.8% in 2021.
• In 2019, travel and tourism revenue contributed 12.6% of the total GDP in Sri Lanka, growing from just 6% in 2000.
• In 2022, tourism revenue in Sri Lanka amounted to US$ 1,136 million.
• As of 2022, there were a total of 190,521 people directly employed in the Sri Lankan travel and tourism industry.
• The top travel destination for tourists from Sri Lanka is India.
• Vice versa, India contributed the highest number of tourists to Sri Lanka, with 123 thousand arrivals in 2022, or 17.1% of all arrivals.
• SLTDA recorded 3,829 total establishments in Sri Lanka in 2022, an increase from the 2,620 establishments in 2019.
• According to Forbes, Sri Lanka ranks as the top wildlife safari outside of Africa.

Inbound tourism in Sri Lanka

How many tourists arrive in Sri Lanka each year?

1. In 2022, there were a total number of 719,978 tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka.

2. this was a significant increase from the 194,495 annual tourist arrivals in sri lanka in 2022, but still yet to recover to the pre-pandemic levels of 1,913,702 tourist arrivals in 2019..

The number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka has not recovered to its pre-pandemic figure of 1,913,702 in 2019 .

3. In 2022, international tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka recovered 31% of pre pandemic levels (2018).

4. the number of tourists arriving in september was the lowest at 29,802, while the busiest month for sri lankan tourism in 2022 was march (106,500 arrivals)., 5. in april 2023, there were 105,498 monthly tourist arrivals in sri lanka..

This was a 67.5% year-on-year increase from April 2022, when Sri Lanka saw only 62,980 tourist arrivals.

The latest figure equals to 58% of the pre-pandemic levels in 2018.

6. The latest data in August 2023 shows that international tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka has increased 261.2% year-on-year compared to August 2022.

[Trading Economics]

Sri Lanka outbound tourism

Where do Sri Lankans travel to the most?

7. Outbound travelers from Sri Lanka was forecasted to hit two million trips in 2021, an increase from the 1.5 million recorded in 2016.

8. the ratio of outbound trips to household in sri lanka was projected to grow from 29.4% in 2016 to 38.8% in 2021., 9. according to globaldata, the top travel destination for tourists from sri lanka is india..

[GlobalData]

After India, the next most popular destinations for Sri Lankan travelling overseas are Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Nepal.

The economy of travel & tourism in Sri Lanka

How much does travel and tourism contribute to Sri Lanka GDP?

10. In 2019, travel and tourism revenue contributed 12.6% of the total GDP in Sri Lanka, growing from just 6% in 2000.

11. in 2022, tourism revenue in sri lanka amounted to us$ 1,136 million., 12. tourism revenue in sri lanka hasn’t yet recovered to its all-time-high of us$ 4,380 million in 2018. .

But it’s still a significant increase from the US$ 506 million of revenue recorded in 2021.

13. A tourist in Sri Lanka spends an average of $164.4 per day in 2022.

14. as of 2022, there were a total of 190,521 people directly employed in the sri lankan travel and tourism industry..

Meanwhile, the number was 195,715 indirect employment in the travel and tourism industry in Sri Lanka in 2022.

Sri Lanka tourism demographics

15. the region that is the largest source of tourists to sri lanka is europe, making up 60.03% of all its international tourists in 2022..

In 2022, tourist arrivals from Europe hit 42.5% of its pre-pandemic levels.

16. The Asia and Pacific region recorded 213,537 tourists arrivals in 2022, comprising 29.66% of all arrivals.

Meanwhile, tourists from the Americas make up 7.1% of all foreign visitors to Sri Lanka in 2022.

17. In terms of country, India contributed the highest number of tourists to Sri Lanka, with 123 thousand arrivals in 2022, or 17.1% of all arrivals.

18. in august 2023, india remains the largest source of international tourists in sri lanka, with 22.4% of market share., 19. the top five international tourist markets in sri lanka are rounded up by the united kingdom, china, germany, and france in august 2023..

British tourists made up 11% of all arrivals in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka travel behavior

How do most people travel in Sri Lanka?

20. The average length of stay for tourists in Sri Lanka in 2022 was 9.34 nights.

21. the majority of tourists from india (56%), russia (69.3%), germany (68.8%), france (69.3%), and poland (92.1%) visited sri lanka for vacation. .

69.3% of tourists from France say that their main purpose for visiting Sri Lanka is for leisure.

22. The majority of tourists from Canada (75%) and Australia (62.4%) come to Sri Lanka to visit friends and relatives.

This reflects the significant amount of Sri Lankan diaspora living in Canada and Australia.

23. 16.3% of tourists from India visits Sri Lanka for business.

Out of all visitors to Sri Lanka, 16.3% come for business purposes .

24. A recent analysis shows that the most popular final departure port to Sri Lanka for international arrivals is Dubai (20.4%).

Other common last ports are Doha, Chennai, London and Singapore, with 17.5%, 10.4%, 6.2%

& and 3.5% respectively.

25. The most popular carriers for arrivals to Sri Lanka are Sri Lankan Airlines, Quarter Airways, and Emirates. Together, they handle a combined total of 65.4% of all tourist arrivals in the country.

Hotels and accommodation statistics in Sri Lanka

How many hotels are there in Sri Lanka?

26. SLTDA recorded 3,829 total establishments in Sri Lanka in 2022, an increase from the 2,620 establishments in 2019.

27. guest houses make up the highest number of accommodation type in sri lanka, with 1,380 establishments..

Homestay units follow closely behind at 1,009 and bungalows at 857.

28. As of 2022, there are 156 classified tourist hotels in Sri Lanka, with 37 five-star hotels and 37 four-star hotels.

Out of the 156 classified tourist hotels in Sri Lanka , 37 are rated as five-stars.

29. In 2022, there were around 26,162 registered Airbnb listings in Sri Lanka.

[Research Gate]

Not all of them are registered as a tourist accommodation service provider, hence the discrepancy in number.

30. Among those, 16,135 are private room listings while 9,332 are entire homes/ apartments.

The majority (61.7%) of Airbnb listings in Sri Lanka are private rooms.

31. The average nightly rate for an Airbnb in Sri Lanka is $74, while the average occupancy rate is 24%.

32. as of september 2023, there are a total of 10,023 properties in sri lanka that are listed on booking.com..

[Booking.com]

Booking.com is the biggest online booking platform for travel accommodation, and as of September 2023, the website records 10,023 properties in Sri Lanka .

Tourist activities and destinations in Sri Lanka

What are the top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka?

33. In 2018, the town of Ella in Sri Lanka welcomed 210 thousand visitors, a notable increase from 42.8 thousand annual visitors in 2008.

Ella is a popular town for tourists visiting Sri Lanka as it has plenty of activities and attractions.

34. Ella has experienced a significant growth of tourist arrivals since 2008, with the average annual growth rate being 26% from 2012 to 2018. 

35. by 2030, tourist volume in ella is forecasted to reach 2.4 million., 36. over 55 % (around 0.5 million) of tourists who visit kandy are backpackers..

[ScienceDirect]

More than half (55%) of tourists in Kandy, Sri Lanka, are backpackers.

37. Among all visitors to Kandy, the majority (78.1%) is in the 21-35 age group.

38. according to the the project manager of central cultural fund sigiriya, sigiriya welcomes 600 local tourists and 900 international tourists every day..

[Beyond Escapes]

39. On weekends, Sigiriya receives on average 2500 local tourist, most of which are from the Northern and Eastern areas of the country.

40. every year, there are 950,000 local tourist arrivals and 135,000 foreign tourist are about in nuwara eliya..

[Uda.gov.lk]

Another popular town for tourists in Sri Lanka is Nuwara Eliya , which has many interesting things to do and attractions to see.

Interestingly, the town itself is not listed among the top 20 most populated cities in Sri Lanka, with just over 25 thousand residents in 2023.

41. Instead, the most populated Sri Lankan city is Colombo, followed by Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Moratuwa, and Jaffna.

[World Population Review]

Colombo is home to 648,034 residents.

42. Camping has been slowly gaining traction in Sri Lanka, with 11.91 million campers in 2017 increasing to 15.52 million in 2022. This figure is expected to reach 48.22 million by 2027.

The number of tourists engaging in camping activities in Sri Lanka continue to increase, which might indirectly contribute to the rising popularity of glamping .

43. According to Forbes, Sri Lanka ranks as the top wildlife safari outside of Africa.

This is mainly because of the presence of the Big Five game animals in Sri Lanka and how easy it is to see them in one safari trip .

All in all, Sri Lanka is a lovely country with an ever-growing tourism industry.

It took a hit during the pandemic, just like the rest of the world, but the statistics reveal that it is beginning to recover.

Have we missed any important aspect of Sri Lankan travel?

Let us know in the comments below.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, check out this handy backpacking guide .

Check out these other statistics:

• New Zealand Travel & Tourism Statistics
• Peru Travel & Tourism Statistics
• Italy Travel & Tourism Statistics
• Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) 1
• Trading Economics
• Research Gate
• Booking.com
• ScienceDirect
• Beyond Escapes
• World Population Review

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Sri Lanka Tourist Arrivals

The number of foreign tourist arrivals in sri lanka jumped by 66.7% year-on-year to 209.2 thousand in march 2024, following a 102.8% surge in the previous month. by region, europe accounted for the largest share of tourist visits (58.6%), followed by asia and the pacific region (34.6%) and the americas (5.9%t). among key markets, india was the largest source of foreign tourists at 15.2%, followed by the russian federation (13.4%), the uk (10.3%), germany (.8.8%), china (6.2%), and france (5.2%). considering the first three months of the year, foreign tourist arrivals soared 89.4% to 635.8 thousand compared to the same period of the previous year. by 2024, the government forecasts tourist arrivals will completely rebound, surpassing 2019 levels with a projected growth of 2%. in 2023, foreign tourist visits surged by 106.6% to 1.5 million compared to the previous year. source: ceylon tourist board, tourist arrivals in sri lanka increased to 218350 in february from 208253 in january of 2024. tourist arrivals in sri lanka averaged 54385.06 from 1977 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 253169.00 in december of 2018 and a record low of 0.00 in april of 2020. this page provides - sri lanka tourist arrivals - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news. sri lanka tourist arrivals - data, historical chart, forecasts and calendar of releases - was last updated on april of 2024.,   markets,   gdp,   labour,   prices,   money,   trade,   government,   business,   consumer,   housing,   taxes,   climate.

This website stores cookies on your computer. These cookies are used to collect information about how you interact with our website and allow us to remember you. We use this information in order to improve and customize your browsing experience and for analytics and metrics about our visitors both on this website and other media. To find out more about the cookies we use, see our Cookies Policy .

If you decline, your information won’t be tracked when you visit this website. A single cookie will be used in your browser to remember your preference not to be tracked.

Sri Lanka Tourism Statistics

Sri lanka lk: international tourism: expenditures, view sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: expenditures from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Expenditures: % of Total Imports

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: expenditures: % of total imports from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Passenger Transport Items

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: expenditures: for passenger transport items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: expenditures: for travel items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Number of Arrivals

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: number of arrivals from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Number of Departures

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: number of departures from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Receipts

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: receipts from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Receipts: % of Total Exports

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: receipts: % of total exports from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Receipts: for Passenger Transport Items

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: receipts: for passenger transport items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Sri Lanka LK: International Tourism: Receipts: for Travel Items

View sri lanka's sri lanka lk: international tourism: receipts: for travel items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Explore our Data

October tourist arrival numbers released: 159% increase

Over 100,000 tourist arrivals were recorded in October 2023, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) said. 

Providing monthly statistics, the SLTDA said 109,199 tourist arrivals were reported from 01- 31 October 2023. 

The SLTDA said the numbers reported for October are a 159% increase compared to the same period last year. Except for May, all months have reported tourist arrivals of over 100,000 this year.

The top five source markets for October were India with 28,222 tourist arrivals, Russia with 10,629 tourists, the United Kingdom with 8,454 tourists, Germany with 7,548 tourists and China with 6,211 tourists. 

Tourist arrivals were also reported from Australia, the Maldives, France, the United States, and Spain during this period. 

The SLTDA said as of 31 October 2023, Sri Lanka has recorded a total of  1,125, 455 tourist arrivals so far this year. 

Full report : https://www.sltda.gov.lk/storage/common_media/WeeklyArrivals-October-1-31st-4th-week.pdf (NewsWire)

© Newswire.lk

• Sri Lanka ›

Sri Lanka Tourism Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide

by GoWithGuide travel specialist: Moritz L.

Did you know that Sri Lanka has the oldest recorded tree and the highest density of waterfalls? If these facts amaze you, then you probably have endless tabs open uncovering the countless wonders and natural treasures that await on this magical island. 

So many tabs, in fact, that planning your trip can be quite the hurdle, making it difficult to hire a Sri Lanka tour guide or plan the perfect itinerary. But before you get stranded in a sea of information, allow us to bring you on board with all the necessary details so you can dive into this magical wonderland with waves of excitement. 

Why We Love Sri Lanka 

From the ancient ruins on top of the Sigiriya , to the traditional tea plantations of Kandy, history is still very vibrant and visible on the 25th largest island in the world. With a population of roughly 22 million , Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon, attracted nearly 2 million visitors in 2019. 

So is tourism booming? Yes! In fact, numbers have risen increasingly as of June 2023, with over 600,000 international visitors. In comparison: the total number of international visitors in 2022 was roughly 720,000, so tourism is definitely on the rise. In no time, Sri Lanka will hit pre- pandemic numbers of 1.9 million tourists. 

What makes Sri Lanka so beloved among tourists, you ask? We are sure the culture, cuisine, and landscapes will give you an answer! Let’s dive a little bit deeper. 

The Culture 

Sri Lanka's welcoming culture invites you to soak in its spirited festivities and explore its age-old heritage. This is only a brief glimpse of what the island has to offer.  

• Cheerful Festivals - if you are in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo during a full moon in February, be prepared to witness the enchanting Nawam Maha Perahera festival. A celebration of Sri Lanka's centuries-old heritage, the festival is filled with exhilarating dances and colorful dresses.
• Tea Production - Thirsty? Then you have to try the locally and internationally loved Ceylon tea , which has a 150-year tradition of hand-picked goodness,  maintaining the highest quality in the global market. 
• Traditional Arts and Crafts - Often passed down through generations, Sri Lankan craftsmanship, such as intricate wood carvings, hand loom textiles, pottery, and traditional mask-making, is vital to the country's history. They also make for a perfect souvenir.
• Customary Dance and Music - Long-established performances such as Kandyan , where complex, widespread steps are combined with rhythmic movements and colorful costumes to tell captivating stories. 
• Hospitality -  Sri Lankans are generally eager to assist travelers, offer guidance and share their culture and traditions. 

Travel tip: To greet locals, bring your hands together in a prayer-like stance and say "Ayubowan" (meaning long life) . 

The Cuisine 

Sri Lanka's mouth-watering mixture of flavors, ranging from the chilies' spiciness to the sweetness of coconuts, is a must-try. Exploring these dishes makes visiting the island a unique experience for your tastebuds, guaranteed!

• Fish Ambul Thiyal - An iconic dish from the southern coastal regions, this spicy fish curry is known for its bold taste.
• Kottu Roti - A treasured street food dish, Kottu Roti mixes chicken and vegetables with lots of aromatic spices tossed in with chopped flatbread.
• Sri Lankan Egg Curry - a delicious vegetarian option, this dish is made with hard-boiled eggs, onions, tomatoes, whole & ground spices, and herbs. It's often enjoyed with rice or roti.
• Watalappam - For those with a sweet tooth - this creamy dessert features delicious local coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, eggs, cardamom, and nutmeg. 
• Parippu - Served at nearly every meal, and a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine, this dhal curry is known for its light flavor and intense use of coconut milk. 
• Hoppers - A popular Sri Lankan dish, these bowl-like pancakes are made out of fermented rice and coconut butter. Often served as a snack or for breakfast, their shape is what makes them unique. 

The Landscapes 

Describing Sri Lanka's captivating landscapes as breathtaking would be an understatement. Here are some of the most enchanting places you should definitely have on your list: 

• Sigiriya - Also called Lion Rock, The UNESCO World Heritage team declared this monumental achievement of architecture as the 8th Wonder of the World . Truly remarkable!
• Dambulla Cave Temple - Filled with 157 statues, murals, and intricate Buddhist art, exploring the cave temples of Dambulla provides an exceptional opportunity to dive into Sri Lanka's rich history. Spiritual encounters included.
• Adams Peak - Located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, climbing this mountain to view the breathtaking sunrise is a challenging, yet magical experience. Legend says Buddha himself left his footprint at the summit. 
• Ella - Covered with cloud forests and tea plantations, Ella is the perfect place for experiencing the country’s beautiful hillside and picturesque mountain views.
• Wilpattu National Park -The country's oldest national park provides you with unparalleled possibilities to see some of the most beautiful animals up close. A unique chance to connect with the wildlife of Sri Lanka!

Who Else Loves Sri Lanka? 

Has the country already sparked your interest? Well, you’re definitely not alone. Tourism flourished in Sri Lanka, contributing over 4.3% ($3.6 Million USD) towards the country's GDP. Last year, the Readers Choice Awards ranked it among the top 20 places to visit, beating major candidates like the USA, South Africa, and France.

Curious to know where most visitors are coming from? Let's take a look!

• India - With over 350,000 travelers in 2019, Sri Lanka's neighbor earns the number one spot. 
• United Kingdom - With nearly 200,000 visitors in 2019, Britain's great interest in the South Asian Island marks number two on this ranking. No wonder the UK is also a steady guest in India .
• China - Right behind the United Kingdom, 167,000 Chinese visitors were eager to explore this remarkable island in 2019.
• Germany - How many German citizens visited Sri Lanka? In 2019, 134,000 visitors showed a strong interest in immersing themselves in the country's cultural richness.
• Australia - The final spot on our list marks the land down under with 92,000 visitors in 2019. 

Sri Lank At A Glance: Planning The Perfect Trip (Where, When & How) 

Still unsure where to start your journey? No worries! We created a list that offers you the best Sri Lankan experience!

• Colombo - Sri Lanka's vibrant capital city merges rich history with modern development. Suppose you are up for some tea and sightseeing? In that case, we recommend a Tea Temple tour , offering you a superb cultural and culinary experience.
• Galle Fort - Known for its Portuguese architectural buildings (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site), this living monument is filled with narrow streets and countless cultural festivals, events, and traditions.
• Mirissa - This charming town on the South coast of Sri Lanka is renowned for its golden beaches, inviting you to enjoy the remarkable view of the Indian Ocean. Had enough of the beach? Then buckle up for a safari adventure from Marissa to Udawala.
• Anuradhapura - A place of historical significance, Sri Lanka's ancient heartbeat offers you the chance to explore its well-preserved temples and prehistoric ruins. If you are traveling in June, don’t miss out on the annual Poson Poya festival, celebrating the introduction of Buddhism on the island. 
• Kandy - Located in the central highlands, the UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, spiritual landmarks, and natural beauty. Once you’re there, exploring the ruins of Polonnaruwa from Kandy is a good place to start. 
• Trincomalee : The coastal town combines Sri Lanka's historical sites, delicious seafood, and coastal beauty. You can enjoy the mesmerizing view at one of the beachside cafes or learn more about the heritage of Sri Lanka in the Hoods Tower Museum. The choice is yours! 

Learn about these destinations and more by speaking to an experienced local Sri Lanka tour guide .​

When To Go: Sri Lanka's Intricate Weather System

With tropical temperatures throughout the year, and two monsoon seasons (Yala & Maha) that influence various parts of the island, an overview of when to travel is vital. So what’s the ideal time? Let’s find out: 

Travel tip: no matter when and where you visit Sri Lanka, always make sure to bring enough sunscreen and an umbrella!

Summer Time (December - April)

During these months, Sri Lanka is primarily dry, sunny and experiences warm and welcoming weather ranging between 22 to 32°C.  Though a downpour cannot be ruled out, especially towards April, this time of the year marks the perfect opportunity to explore cultural spots, attend festivals, or relax on the beach.  With that in mind, the North and East cities remain wet from October to January due to the Maha Monsoon period.

Travel tip: During these months larger groups of travelers are to be expected, so book your trip in advance.

Monsoon Time (May - November)

Around this time of year, the weather becomes an x-factor, ranging from sharp showers to strong winds and an average temperature of 23 to 31 °C.  Nevertheless, you can still experience the island's fascinating wildlife and picturesque scenery if you consider a drizzle here and there acceptable.  Additionally, there are fewer travelers during these months, and accommodations offer attractive discounts. 

Sri Lanka's Climatic Regions & Tourist Travel Explained

Generally speaking, the months between December and April are perfect for a trip to Sri Lanka. However, due to ever-changing weather conditions on the island, a regional overview helps: 

South West Coast

Destinations: Bentota, Colombo, Negombo, Kalpitiya

Ideal Travel Time: December to March

Average Daily Temperature 30 °C

Stay Inside: May to September 

South Coast

Destinations: Galle, Weligama, Mirissa, Tangalle, Yala National Park

Ideal Travel Time: (late) November to April 

Average Daily Temperature 24-25 °C

Stay Inside: October to January (higher rainfall)

Central & Northern West Coast

Destinations: Kalpitiya, Puttalam, Mannar

Ideal Travel Time: June to October 

Average Daily Temperature 24- 26 °C

Stay Inside: May to September (South-West Monsoon)

Destinations: Passekudah, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Batticaloa, Nilaveli, Kuchchaveli

Ideal Travel Time: April to September

Average Daily Temperature 25-31 °C

Stay Inside: October to January

North-East Coast

Destinations: Jaffna, Mullaitivu

Average Daily Temperature 28-35 °C

Ideal Travel Time: May to September

How To Get There: Navigating Sri Lanka's Transport Systems 

Traveling through Sri Lanka may be a hurdle for those who are not used to its fast-paced nature, traveling with a local expert is recommended. Apart from that, these are the best methods to get around:

• Hop on a Train - By far the most magnificent way to experience the beautiful landscapes, quaint villages, and coastal stretches. The extensive network will help you reach your dream destination, whether you are planning a short ride or a more extended expedition. Sri Lanka Railways is an excellent place to start!
• Let's Drive - Renting a private vehicle is a convenient way to create routes and make stops at your own liking. A car allows you to explore the island's hidden gems and personalize your trip.

Traveling tip : make sure to have an international driving permit !

• Tuk-Tuk - These three-wheelers are a fun alternative, especially for shorter distances between cities and towns. Flexibility is on your side; you will discover parts of the island you wouldn't see otherwise. 

Cool fun fact: There is even a Tuk-Tuk racing tournament around the island that you can join!

What To Expect: Living In The Teardrop Of India 

As famous author Aldous Huxley rightfully said, "To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." To ensure that you are right about Sri Lanka, let's get you acquainted with the country's in and outs.

Staying Safe: Red Flags For Travelers 

Despite Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality and enchanting flair, there are some reasonable safety concerns. Even with the country’s ongoing economic crisis and political turmoil, Sri Lanka’s current well-being demonstrates an impressive recovery, contributing to a growing sense of security. To make sure you’re safe, be alert with these steps:

• Always agree on a set price before riding with a Tuk-Tuk! - Drivers often argue that their meter is “broken” and charge higher fees. To avoid this, agree on a price beforehand. 
• Watch out for your bags - Especially in crowded regions where pick-pocketing is unavoidable. Always keep an eye on your personal belongings.
• Be aware of scams - Random people may invite you to stay at their guesthouse, or claim to be pilots or professionals just to sell you something. Also, beware of unsolicited or "free" travel guidance offers. It's never free. To cut through the confusion, It's best to book an official local private guide in advance. 
• Check your Credit Card - There are times when people charge you double the price, so always check your receipt. Avoid this by using cash. If you need an ATM, make sure it is within an official building (e.g. a bank)

Conclusion: 

If you’ve come this far, you’re already in love with Sri Lanka. Whether you are a nature lover, history admirer, adventure seeker, or beach-goer, this picturesque island has something unique to offer for anyone. 

All that is left for you is to start planning your trip! If you need further assistance, our Sri Lanka tour guides will gladly support you, kicking aside any language barriers, worries, or unfortunate miscommunications. 

Let's help you make your trip to Sri Lanka noteworthy!

P.S.: Looking to travel with companions? The more, the merrier! Share this post with your friends and get them as excited about touring Sri Lanka as you are!

Popular Sri Lanka Tour Guides

Hi, there, Ayubowan and Welcome to Sri Lanka! Prebu offers high quality personalized and customised private tour guide and driver tours from a full- day trip to a trip lasting several weeks of Sri Lanka. From pure unspoiled nature to varied cultures and religions, dramatic high country and fantastic beaches, you can explore everything our wonderful country Sri Lanka has to offer. My name is Prebu and I've been working as a private tour guide and driver for many years and look forward to showcasing our great country to inquisitive travelers like yourself. It will be a journey of life time. Book your beautiful Sri Lanka holiday and make your holiday unforgettable.                                                                                                                                  

I'm Duminda, your dedicated guide to the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Sri Lanka. As a licensed tour guide and lecturer, I specialize in providing immersive experiences and insightful narratives that bring our culture to life. With my reliable transportation services, I ensure a comfortable journey as you explore the wonders of this island. Let's embark on a memorable adventure together!"                                                                                                                                  

Hi I'm Sandun from Sri Lanka. I'm a Authorised tourist chauffeur and professional local travel buddy in Sri Lanka. I have more than 7 years experience in tour planning and travel around Sri Lanka as a local travel buddy. Why you need to visit in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is the one of most popular tourist destination in the world. Sri Lanka is a South Asian country. A small Island in the Indian Ocean. Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavourful food. Visit Sri Lanka you can have a amazing experience in there. Would you like to travel around Sri Lanka with a person as a friend beyond a traditional tour guide and tour.                                                                                                                                  

Hi, I’m Nimal from Sri Lanka, working as a chauffeur tourist guide in English and German.I’m working from 2005 to date as a chauffeur guide and having moved with lot of Germans I can handle any German speaking guest very well. At the beginning I worked for private companies then I thought that I must work freelance and at the end I’m a freelancer now. I like to share my experience with you too. - Hi, ich bin Nimal aus Sri Lanka arbeitet als Reiseleiter und Fahrer.Ich spreche Deutsch und Englisch. Ich arbeite Zeit 2005 bis heute als Reiseleiter und hat mit viele Deutsche gearbeitet und könnte mit alle Deutsch sprechenden behandeln. Am Anfang habe ich beiPrivat Firma gearbeitet und hat gedankt muss was selbst machen und danach bin ich freiberuflich und jetzt bin ich freiberuflicher.Ich mag meine Erfahrungen austauschen. Ich bin wochenlang für arbeiten bereits. Ich unternehme Rundreise in Gänze Sri Lanka.Bitte melden Sie mir zu Ihre Sri Lanka Rundreise zu Inga gieren.                                                                                                                                  

Plan your trip to sri lanka.

Chat with a local tour guide who can help organize your trip.

Related Blogs

Hiring A Guide In Sri Lanka: Pros & Cons

Imagine the comforting breeze after climbing the central highlands of kandy, with the delicious smell of sri lankan tea filling your nose. relaxation ....

How to Watch Sumo Wrestlers Training in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

I think we can agree that sumo or sumo wrestling is different from the usual sports/attraction, and it’d be very interesting to watch it and experienc...

Japan travel - How long can I stay in Japan?

Most people would want to visit japan at least once in their life and enjoy the beautiful country. it’s an amazing opportunity to travel to japan, but....

Day tour to Hakone from Tokyo - How to go and what to do

Hakone, Japan

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Come & enjoy the beauty of Japan with our highly rated Japan private tours.   Do you want to go a little outside of Tokyo and enjoy a little...

Follow us on social media.

International tourism, receipts (current US$) - Sri Lanka

Selected Countries and Economies

All countries and economies.

• Privacy Notice
• Access to Information

This site uses cookies to optimize functionality and give you the best possible experience. If you continue to navigate this website beyond this page, cookies will be placed on your browser. To learn more about cookies, click here.