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Sri Lanka has been named one of the top five “Best Places to Visit in Asia” for 2026 by U.S. News & World Report, marking a major milestone in the island’s tourism recovery.
The U.S.-based publication ranked Sri Lanka ahead of several established regional hubs, citing its “diverse offering” and growing appeal to global travelers. The rankings were determined by a data-driven analysis of:
* Accessibility & Affordability
* Cultural & Culinary Richness
* Attractions & Reader Sentiment
The report specifically lauded Sri Lanka for its unique ability to pack world-class beaches, ancient UNESCO heritage sites, and premier wildlife safaris into a single, compact island. Experts noted that the country has transitioned into a “stand-alone destination,” no longer just a secondary stop for regional travelers.
This recognition comes as Sri Lanka targets record-breaking arrival numbers for 2026, bolstered by a new visa-free entry policy for 40 countries and an expansion of luxury eco-tourism and scenic rail experiences.
(Newswire)
