Sri Lanka welcomes over 80,700 tourists in early February

Tuesday, 10 February 2026 05:38 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

First eight days’ arrivals up 14% YoY, push YTD figure to 358,103

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has maintained its growth momentum in early February, with the country welcoming 80,776 visitors in the first eight days of the month, reflecting a 14% year-on-year (YoY) increase.

This performance has pushed total year-to-date (YTD) arrivals to 358,103, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period last year.

Data shows that the first week of February accounted for the bulk of arrivals, with 70,355 tourists entering the country, followed by 10,421 arrivals on 8 February alone. The highest daily arrivals for the period was recorded last Saturday (7), when 10,723 visitors arrived.

The daily average number of arrivals so far in February stands at 10,097, underscoring sustained demand for Sri Lanka as a travel destination.

India emerged as the leading source market during the first eight days of February, contributing 12,439 visitors, or 15% of total arrivals. The UK followed with 9,283 tourists, while Russia accounted for 6,946 arrivals. Germany and China also featured prominently, contributing 5,401 and 5,037 visitors, respectively. Other markets that made notable contributions included France, Poland, Australia, the US, and the Netherlands.

The YTD figures reflect a similar pattern, with India maintaining its position as Sri Lanka’s top source market, having sent in 64,500 visitors so far this year. The UK follows with 38,823 arrivals, while Russia has contributed 34,080 visitors. Germany accounts for 23,177 arrivals and China for 19,040 during the same period.