Tourist arrivals in 2026 surpass 1.5 million

The number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka has surpassed the 1.5 million mark so far this year.

According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), a total of 1,517,296 tourists arrived in the country between January 1 and August 27.

Meanwhile, 173,878 tourist arrivals were recorded between August 1 and August 27.

India recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals during the month, with 41,781 visitors arriving in Sri Lanka.

The United Kingdom ranked second with 18,197 arrivals, while China recorded the third-highest number with 11,368 tourists.

India has also emerged as the leading source market for tourist arrivals so far this year, with a total of 380,011 visitors.

Meanwhile, 148,598 tourists from the United Kingdom and 99,875 tourists from China have visited Sri Lanka during the year to date.

February recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals so far this year, with a total of 279,328 visitors.