Shri Sanath Jayasuriya Sri Lankan Ace Cricketer and face of Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshows in India (C) alongside Mr. Chalaka Gajabahu Chairman Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (L) and Hon. Harin Fernando Minister of Tourism Sri Lanka (R) addressing the Media during the 2nd Roadshow held at St.Regis Hotel, Mumbai – By Sachin Murdeshwar/ GPN – 28.09.2022

MUMBAI, 28th SEPTEMBER, 2022 (GPN): Sri Lanka Tourism successfully conducted an evening of B2B trade networking and media interactions, followed by a beautiful Cultural Fusion Performance by the highly-talented Sri Lankan dance troupe artists, with Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine, at the Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi on 26th September, 2022 and today on 28th September, 2022 the second Roadshow was hosted at the St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai. Apparently another roadshow is planned in Hyderabad on 30th September, 2022

The focus was on promoting a spectacular showcase of Destination Attractions, with Ramayana Trails, Buddhism Culture, Beaches, Weddings, Honeymoons and a thriving Cosmopolitan for the discerning Indian Outbound travellers.

A top-of-the-line Official Delegation led by the Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Tourism accompanied by Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman Sri Lanka Conventions Bureau interacted with the high-profile Indian Travel Trade, Corporates and Media personnel.

A 50-member strong team of Sri Lankan Tour Operators and Hoteliers also accompanied the delegation, to promote Sri Lanka Tourism’s return to normalcy and promote business partnerships. Many industry stakeholders are supporting this endeavour including SriLankan Airlines and Mastercard.

The Delhi Roadshow Pictures By -GPN/ 26.09.2023

This series of roadshows will continue to promote Sri Lanka from Northern Region od New Delhi to the very important Western India Region of Mumbai with The series of Roadshows concluding in the Hyderabad Roadshow event to be held at Taj Krishna Hotel on September 30, 2022, targeting the close proximity of Southern India region’s outbound market.

The main purpose of hosting these roadshows is to promote Sri Lanka as an attractive tourism destination across India, as it is one of Sri Lanka’s key source markets and has been extremely supportive in Sri Lanka regaining lost momentum both post pandemic and the recent economic downturn. Sri Lanka is witnessing a considerable increase in tourist arrivals with India leading the way and securing the number one position.

The event also focuses on promoting a myriad of tourism experiences while focusing on converting potential travellers to make bookings and highlighting the positive message that Sri Lanka is open for Leisure, Business and MICE tourism. The target audience at these roadshows will be Tour Operators, Media, Key Influencers, Corporates and Trade Associations and key Tourism Industry stakeholders in India, who have the ability to take the message that Sri Lanka is not only one of the most beautiful countries but is also safe and secure; adhering to all the necessary health and safety guidelines.

SLTPB expects an impressive growth in the Indian outbound travellers to Sri Lanka post this event. India and Sri Lanka enjoy direct connectivity with over 100 weekly flights. The year 2020 saw 103,911 Indian Outbound to Sri Lanka. From the year 2011 to 2019, the Indian Outbound numbers to Sri Lanka saw an impressive 107 per cent growth from 171,374 to 355,002, a growth of over 100 per cent.

Minster of Tourism, Hon. Harin Fernando, said, “We are delighted to be in India for this very important series of Roadshows in Delhi, Mumbai & Hyderabad. Sri Lanka wholeheartedly welcomes Indians. Sri Lanka has gained immense popularity in India thanks to Ramayana Trails, Buddhist Connection, tremendous sports following, with the recent Asia Cup Cricket Tournament, and has experienced consistent growth over the period. We are showcasing Sri Lanka through this series of Roadshows to enhance destination visibility among travel trade and consumers, and to further consolidate Sri Lanka’s position as a preferred destination for Indian travellers. We are confident that in 2022 a lot of more Indians will choose Sri Lanka as their preferred holiday destination.”

Sri Lanka is a top-notch tourist destination and is known as the Wonder of Asia for its long-preserved culture and heritage. Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites and is renowned for “Sigiriya Rock Fortress” the succession of ancient civilisations of the Island, showcasing, in addition, some other attractions that are an interesting colonial legacy of the country. Witnessing the growth and potential from India, SLTPB has taken a step forward in consolidating its presence in the Indian market.Ends

About Sri Lanka:
A Landmark destination in the ancient Spice trail, Sri Lanka is bursting with wonders. This tropical Island is famous for its diverse landscapes: From the blue sea side belt to Green mountains and the island’s lavish greenery ranging from coconut Palm groves to Paddy fields and tea plantations, adorned by over 200 natural waterfalls. One must explore Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches and visit the “Ramayana trail” sites, The UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya and fascinating history of Dambulla. Be it family and leisure gateways, adventure and rejuvenation, Sri Lanka has all to explore.

[The Author- Sachin Murdeshwar can be contacted on WhatsApp +91 8108510506 and +91 8369388645 and Gmail: [email protected] Passport No: T1870144 Valid Till- 25.12.2028]