Sri Lanka recorded its lowest monthly tourist arrivals for the year in April, with only 135,643 visitors, marking a sharp 22.3% decline compared to April 2025.
Total arrivals for the first four months of the year (as at April 30) stood at 876,277, reflecting a drop of 75,297 compared to the same period last year.
India remained the top source market, contributing 189,918 visitors so far this year. However, average daily arrivals declined to around 4,000 during April.
Tourism earnings also fell, with revenue declining by 15%. The country earned USD 954 million from January to March 2026, compared to USD 1,122.3 million during the same period in 2025.
The only positive trend in April was China emerging as the second-largest source market, overtaking the United Kingdom, Australia, the Russian Federation, and France, with 5,844 arrivals.
Latest News
Sri Lanka cuts daily vehicle imports spending to $3.9mn
Minister Lal Kantha vows not to give up political power easily
Heavy rain expected across several provinces
Switzerland to vote on plan to cap population at 10 million
Woman seriously injured in shark attack at Sydney beach
US thrash Paraguay 4-1 for dream World Cup start
Deal to end fighting would lead to Hormuz reopening, Iran says
England crush Sri Lanka in Women’s T20 World Cup opener
Hosts Canada held to 1-1 draw by Bosnia
JVP also responsible if Easter attacks brought Gotabaya to power - Namal