National carrier of Sri Lanka reinforces connectivity with 90 weekly flights from nine Indian cities as tourism sector reports strong recovery
SriLankan Airlines is positioning itself to capture a significant share of the Indian winter travel market, with the national carrier and tourism stakeholders working in tandem to showcase the island nation as an accessible and welcoming holiday destination during the upcoming festive season.
The airline’s strategic focus on the Indian market comes at an opportune time, as December and January represent the ideal period to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions, from sun-kissed beaches to ancient cultural landmarks. With enhanced connectivity and coordinated efforts across the tourism sector, the island is poised to build on this year’s impressive performance in attracting Indian visitors.
Robust Connectivity Framework
SriLankan Airlines has established a comprehensive network linking Sri Lanka with nine major Indian cities: Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, Trivandrum, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli. The airline operates nearly 90 weekly flights across these routes, providing Indian travellers with multiple convenient options to reach the island paradise.
This extensive connectivity has yielded remarkable results. Between January and the first week of December this year, nearly 500,000 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka, accounting for 22% of all inbound traffic to the country. These figures underscore the strong bilateral tourism ties and the growing appeal of Sri Lanka as a preferred short-haul destination for Indian travellers.
Beyond direct India-Sri Lanka connections, SriLankan’s broader network spans 120 destinations worldwide through online and codeshare operations. This extensive reach ensures seamless onward travel from Colombo to the Maldives, Far East, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, catering to various travel purposes including leisure trips, family visits, weddings, MICE travel, and short-break holidays.
Peak Season Advantages
Mr. Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Commercial at SriLankan Airlines, emphasized the exceptional timing for winter travel to Sri Lanka. “December and January are among the best months to visit Sri Lanka, with ideal weather for beach vacations and exploring the Cultural Triangle. It is also peak wildlife season, offering excellent opportunities for blue whale watching in Mirissa, alongside the colourful festive atmosphere in Colombo,” he stated.
Tennakoon assured prospective travellers that the airline’s teams are fully prepared to support visitors with consistent, convenient service, whether they are planning a short getaway or an extended stay. This commitment reflects the carrier’s focus on delivering reliable operations during the high-demand winter period.
Diverse Destination Appeal
Sri Lanka’s tourism proposition rests on its remarkable diversity, which becomes truly apparent only through firsthand experience. The island’s famed coastal destinations – including Colombo, Galle, Negombo, Mirissa, and Weligama – offer vibrant beach experiences that draw sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Equally compelling are the historical treasures scattered across the Cultural Triangle. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, along with the ancient cities of Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura, provide glimpses into Sri Lanka’s rich civilizational heritage spanning over two millennia. These archaeological wonders, combined with the island’s natural beauty, create a multi-dimensional travel experience that appeals to diverse tourist segments.
Industry-Wide Readiness
The hospitality sector has echoed the airline’s optimism and preparedness. Mr. Asoka Hettigoda, President of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka, highlighted the industry’s current operational status and welcoming stance toward Indian visitors.
“Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues to welcome travellers, especially our friends from India, with its renowned warmth and hospitality,” Hettigoda stated. “Currently, all hotels along the coastal belt from Marawila to Pasikuda, as well as those in Colombo, Kandy, the Cultural Triangle and Nuwara Eliya, are operating smoothly, with 25,000 tourists presently enjoying their stay on the island.”
This comprehensive operational readiness across key tourism zones – from coastal resorts to hill country retreats and cultural heritage sites – ensures that visitors can explore the full spectrum of Sri Lankan experiences without constraints.
Coordinated Tourism Ecosystem
The success of Sri Lanka’s winter tourism push reflects coordinated efforts among multiple stakeholders. SriLankan Airlines, working closely with hotels, tour operators, and essential travel services, operates with strong support from tourism authorities. This collaborative approach has created an ecosystem that prioritizes exceptional connectivity, convenience, and unforgettable experiences for every traveller.
The integration of airline operations with ground services, accommodation options, and tour experiences ensures smooth end-to-end travel for Indian visitors, whether they seek relaxation on pristine beaches, cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, or a combination of these experiences.
Booking and Information
Indian travellers interested in experiencing Sri Lanka during the winter season can access booking options and detailed information through SriLankan Airlines’ official website at www.srilankan.com or by contacting their nearest travel agent. The airline’s customer service teams are equipped to assist with itinerary planning and provide guidance on the best options for different travel preferences and budgets.
As the winter holiday season approaches, SriLankan Airlines’ comprehensive connectivity framework, combined with the tourism sector’s operational readiness and Sri Lanka’s inherent attractions, positions the island nation as a compelling choice for Indian travellers seeking memorable holiday experiences.
