Sri Lanka has recorded its highest-ever annual tourist arrivals in 2025, surpassing the previous record set in 2018, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).

A total of 2,362,521 tourists visited the country during 2025, breaking the 2018 record of 2,333,796 arrivals, which had stood as the highest in the nation’s tourism history.

The SLTDA noted that tourist arrivals in 2025 increased by 15.1% year-on-year compared to 2024, representing growth of over 300,000 visitors.

Meanwhile, December 2025 also marked a significant milestone, recording the highest monthly tourist arrivals since 2018. A total of 258,928 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka during the month, according to the Authority’s latest data.

India emerged as the largest source market in December, with 56,715 Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka during the month.

The strong performance highlights a sustained recovery and renewed momentum in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, with 2025 setting a new benchmark for visitor arrivals.