Sri Lanka has recorded its highest-ever number of tourist arrivals for the month of January, with 277,327 visitors entering the country in January 2026, according to data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
The figure represents a 9.7 percent increase compared to January 2025 and a 16.1 percent rise over January 2018, marking a strong recovery and growth in the tourism sector.
India remained Sri Lanka’s largest source market during the month, contributing 52,061 visitors, accounting for 19 percent of total arrivals. The United Kingdom followed with 29,540 tourists (11 percent), while the Russian Federation ranked third with 27,134 arrivals (10 percent).
Germany, China and France were also among the top source markets, while arrivals from Australia, Poland, the United States and the Netherlands completed the top ten list. Tourists from other countries accounted for 31 percent of total arrivals.
Daily arrival data showed a steady inflow throughout the month, averaging more than 8,900 tourists per day. Weekly totals ranged between 58,822 and 64,469 arrivals, reflecting sustained demand during the peak winter travel season.
Tourism officials say the record January performance underscores Sri Lanka’s continued appeal as a destination and signals positive momentum for the industry in 2026, following steady growth throughout 2025.
In 2025, Sri Lanka recorded a total of 2.36 million tourist arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and setting the stage for further expansion this year. (Newswire)
