Sri Lanka Tourism is all set to conclude its India tour with a networking event at Shangri-La Delhi scheduled to take place on Tuesday (February 20). Following the resounding success of its showcase in Mumbai at Sofitel BKC, Sri Lanka Tourism sets the stage for another remarkable display of its offerings.

Th networking event will be inaugurated by Kshenuka Senewiratne, The High Commissioner, and High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi along with Nalin Parera, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Krishantha Fernando, General Manager, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and Jyothi Mayal, President, Travel agents Association of India (TAAI). It promises to be an event of immense significance, highlighting Sri Lanka's exponential tourism growth and fostering collaboration with esteemed industry leaders. A pivotal announcement awaits the attendees as the Sri Lanka tourism board reveals the dates of the forthcoming 3rd MICE Expo scheduled for May 2024.

Key Points from the Event:

1. Rapid Increase in Indian Visitors: Sri Lanka anticipates a significant surge in Indian visitors, with numbers expected to more than double from January last year to January 2024, reaching an impressive 34,399.

2. Robust Tourism Earnings: Sri Lanka's tourism earnings are on a steady rise, projected to surpass $2 billion in 2023. This achievement reflects the resilience and growth of Sri Lanka's tourism industry.

3. Ambitious Targets for 2024: The Sri Lankan Tourism Delegation, will address the audience, expressing gratitude for India's support and outlining ambitious targets for 2024. This demonstrates Sri Lanka's commitment to further enhancing its tourism sector.

4. Importance of Bilateral Relations: HE Kshenuka Senewiratne, The High Commissioner, High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi, will shed light on the crucial role of people-to-people connectivity in strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and India.

5. Premier MICE Destination: Sri Lanka is poised to emerge as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination, with the 3rd MICE Expo scheduled for May 2024. This underscores Sri Lanka's potential to host international events and conferences.

6. Focus on Sustainability and Cultural Heritage: Future plans include a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism practices and the preservation of cultural heritage sites. Sri Lanka remains dedicated to maintaining its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage for generations to come.

7. Connectivity: With 95 flights linking Sri Lanka to nine Indian cities, travel between the two nations has never been more accessible. Round trip fares, ranging from Rs 16,000 to Rs 90,000, vary based on departure city and class. Notably, travel times are remarkably short, such as Delhi to Colombo in approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes.

8. Seamless Shopping via UPI: Moreover, with the recent launch of India's Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in Sri Lanka, transactions have become even more seamless for travellers.

As Sri Lanka and India continue to foster collaboration, they pave the way for mutual prosperity and cultural exchange. Travellers are invited to explore the timeless allure of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, as Sri Lanka's tourism industry continues to flourish.