Sri Lanka
USA
Canada
India
UK
UAE
Sri Lanka has posted its strongest January performance on record for tourism, with more than 277,000 international visitors arriving in the country during January 2026, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA). The milestone highlights the sector’s continued upward trajectory and growing global demand for travel to the island.
Compared to the same month last year, arrivals increased by nearly 10 percent, while figures were also over 16 percent higher than those recorded in January 2018. Industry analysts view the growth as a clear indication that Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery has not only stabilized but is now gaining momentum.
India continued to dominate as the leading source market, sending over 52,000 travelers and accounting for close to one-fifth of total arrivals. The United Kingdom secured second place with just under 30,000 visitors, followed by Russia with more than 27,000 tourists.
Other key markets contributing significantly included Germany, China and France. Strong numbers were also reported from Australia, Poland, the United States and the Netherlands, rounding out the top ten countries. Visitors from the rest of the world made up roughly one-third of total arrivals.
Tourist inflows remained consistent throughout the month, with daily arrivals averaging above 8,900. Weekly arrival totals ranged between approximately 59,000 and 64,000, reflecting steady travel demand during the peak winter season.
Tourism authorities say the record-breaking January reinforces Sri Lanka’s growing appeal as a preferred destination and points to a promising year ahead. The strong start to 2026 builds on the positive trend seen in 2025, when the country welcomed around 2.36 million tourists—exceeding pre-pandemic levels and laying a solid foundation for further growth.
