In a strategic move to strengthen tourism and business ties with India, the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) successfully organized a series of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) Roadshows and Networking Sessions in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Chennai during the last week of May 2026.
The initiative, conducted under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, aimed to position Sri Lanka as a preferred destination for MICE tourism among Indian corporates, event planners, and business travelers.
The roadshow series commenced on May 25 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, followed by ITC Sonar, Kolkata on May 27, and concluded at Pullman Chennai Anna Salai on May 29. The events attracted leading MICE specialists, wedding planners, professional conference organizers, corporate travel buyers, tourism stakeholders, media representatives, and influencers from across India.
India Remains Sri Lanka’s Largest Tourism Source Market
India continues to play a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s tourism growth story. According to data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, 531,511 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2025, accounting for 22 percent of the country’s total tourist arrivals. The year also marked a historic milestone, recording the highest-ever number of Indian visitors to Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector generated more than USD 3.2 billion in revenue during 2025, underlining the industry’s growing contribution to the national economy.
The positive momentum has continued into 2026. Between January and May, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1.01 million international tourists, including 245,981 visitors from India, reinforcing India’s position as the island nation’s most important tourism market.
MICE Tourism Emerging as a Key Growth Driver
MICE and business tourism currently contribute approximately 10 percent of Sri Lanka’s total tourist arrivals, making it one of the fastest-growing segments of the tourism industry.
To capitalize on this opportunity, the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau brought together a 24-member delegation of leading Sri Lankan tour operators and hospitality professionals to showcase the country’s world-class conference facilities, luxury accommodations, event infrastructure, and unique tourism experiences.
The roadshows focused on promoting Sri Lanka as an ideal destination for corporate events, incentive travel, conferences, exhibitions, and destination weddings.
Strong Connectivity Enhances Business Travel
A major advantage highlighted during the roadshows was Sri Lanka’s excellent air connectivity with India. SriLankan Airlines currently operates 90 weekly flights connecting Sri Lanka with nine Indian cities, while airlines such as IndiGo and Air India offer regular services to Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Industry experts noted that the short travel time, competitive costs, and diverse tourism offerings make Sri Lanka an attractive choice for Indian businesses and event organizers.
Cultural Showcase and Business Networking
The events featured structured Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings designed to facilitate meaningful interactions between Indian travel buyers and Sri Lankan tourism partners. Evening networking sessions provided opportunities for industry leaders to explore future collaborations and partnerships.
Adding a cultural dimension to the events, a traditional Sri Lankan cultural troupe presented performances showcasing the island nation’s rich heritage, arts, and traditions.
Speaking on the occasion, Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, said that Sri Lanka’s close proximity and strong connectivity with India make it a highly competitive and cost-effective destination for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and incentive travel.
He expressed confidence that the roadshows would further strengthen tourism cooperation and business engagement between the two neighboring countries while promoting Sri Lanka as a premier MICE destination in South Asia.
