In a move to rejuvenate Sri Lanka's ailing tourism industry, the Sri Lankan Cabinet has given the green light to grant free tourist visas to travellers from India as well as six additional countries. This decision comes as the nation seeks to recover from its crippling economic challenges and breathe new life into its once-thriving tourism sector.
Foreign Minister Ali Sabry made a pivotal announcement on October 24, revealing the government's commitment to boosting tourism through a policy of free tourist visas. This strategy envisioned as a pilot project, will remain in effect until March 31, 2024. The immediate beneficiaries of this policy include travellers from seven countries: India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. Tourists from these nations will no longer incur visa fees, simplifying their journey to the island nation.
Historically, India has been Sri Lanka's foremost source of inbound tourism. Recent statistics substantiate this, with the September arrival figures showing India leading the pack with over 30,000 arrivals, accounting for a substantial 26 per cent of total arrivals. China followed as the second-largest group with more than 8,000 arrivals.
The tourism sector in Sri Lanka has been grappling with the aftermath of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, which claimed the lives of 270 individuals, including 11 Indian nationals, while leaving over 500 injured. This tragic event sent shockwaves throughout the nation, causing a sharp decline in tourist arrivals.
Since gaining independence from Britain in 1948, Sri Lanka has faced unprecedented economic challenges, with recent times being no exception. Concurrently, political unrest has further strained the country's stability, with protesters demanding the resignation of President Rajapaksa.
The economic crisis has had cascading effects, resulting in an acute shortage of essential commodities such as food, medicine, cooking gas, fuel, toilet paper, and matches. Sri Lankans have endured hours-long lines outside stores to secure these necessities. The situation has stirred the urgency to rejuvenate the nation's economy, making the tourism sector a critical focal point.
As Sri Lanka seeks to welcome travellers from India and other countries through this generous visa policy, it aspires to reclaim its status as a thriving tourist destination. The decision to offer free tourist visas aims to bring relief to the nation's economy and restore its reputation as a hospitable and welcoming destination eager to share its rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty with the world.
Getting There
Travellers from India can reach Sri Lanka by air through direct flights from several major Indian cities to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Air India, IndiGo, and SriLankan Airlines offer convenient and frequent flight options. The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is the primary international gateway to Sri Lanka and provides easy access to various destinations nationwide.