According to data released by the tourism development authority, Sri Lanka experienced a 16.2 percent increase in tourist arrivals in February 2026, compared to the same month last year, reaching a total of 279,328 visitors.

In January, travelers from India constituted 17 percent of the total arrivals, amounting to 47,679 individuals. The United Kingdom followed with 30,788 visitors, accounting for 11 percent of the arrivals.

Sri Lanka’s role as a co-host of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup significantly contributed to the influx of tourists, attracting visitors from cricket-playing nations between February 7 and March 8. Additionally, the England Men’s Tour of Sri Lanka 2026, which spanned January and February, featured several matches across various locations on the island.

Tourists from Russia numbered 23,099, representing 8 percent of the total, while Germany contributed 22,566 visitors, also making up 8 percent. Arrivals from China totaled 20,180, accounting for 7 percent of the overall tourist numbers.

(Colombo/Mar4/2026)