Contact Us

 Here is the official contact information for the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA):

📍 Address

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

No. 80, Galle Road,

Colombo 03, Sri Lanka 

📞 Telephone

• +94 112 426800

• +94 112 426900

• +94 11 2437055 / 59 / 60 

📠 Fax

• +94 112 444165 

• +94 112 426984 

📧 Email

• General Inquiries: info@srilanka.travel 

• Tourism Police: dptd@srilanka.travel 

📞 Tourism Hotline

• 1912 (accessible within Sri Lanka) 

🌐 Website

• www.sltda.gov.lk

Travel Security

Travel Security. 

Tourism Police in Sri Lanka: Overview

1. Purpose:

The Tourism Police division was established to protect both local and international tourists and to enhance their travel experience by ensuring their safety across the island.

2. Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain law and order in tourist hotspots.

• Assist tourists with complaints such as harassment, overcharging, scams, or theft.

• Provide directions and general travel advice.

• Handle lost and found reports.

• Coordinate with embassies and tour operators in case of emergencies.

3. Locations:

Tourism Police units are stationed in major tourist areas, such as:

• Colombo (Galle Face, Fort, Pettah)

• Galle

• Hikkaduwa

• Bentota

• Mirissa

• Ella

• Kandy

• Sigiriya

• Anuradhapura

• Nuwara Eliya

• Arugam Bay

• Jaffna

4. Uniform & Identification:

Tourism Police officers usually wear uniforms with clear “Tourist Police” badges and speak at least basic English to assist foreign visitors.

5. Contacting Them:

• Tourist Police Hotline (operated by Sri Lanka Police): +94 11 242 1052

• You can also visit the nearest police station or tourism police post if you’re in need of help.

Travel Agents in Sri Lanka

Travel Agents. 

1. Aitken Spence Travels

• Overview: One of Sri Lanka’s largest and most reputed travel agencies, with over 40 years in the industry.

• Services:

• Inbound and outbound tour packages

• Tailor-made holiday plans

• Hotel bookings and transportation

• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism

• Popular Tours:

• Cultural triangle tours, beach holidays, wildlife safaris

• Website: www.aitkenspencetravels.com

2. Walkers Tours

• Overview: A well-established DMC (Destination Management Company) operating under John Keells Holdings, serving tourists for over 50 years.

• Services:

• Customized holiday experiences

• Eco and adventure tourism

• Luxury travel and honeymoon packages

• Group and solo travel planning

• Specialty: Strong focus on sustainable and responsible tourism

• Website: www.walkerstours.com

3. Jetwing Travels

• Overview: Part of the Jetwing Group, known for both luxury hospitality and travel services.

• Services:

• Inbound and outbound tours

• Hotel and resort bookings

• Heritage and nature tours

• Ayurveda and wellness retreats

• Unique Feature: Close integration with Jetwing Hotels, offering seamless travel + accommodation packages.

• Website: www.jetwingtravels.com

Transportation Service

Transportation Services. 

1. Road Transport

Public Bus Services

• Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB): Government-run bus service, serving both rural and urban areas.

• Private Bus Services: Operate on most routes with higher frequency. Buses are categorized into:

• Normal (red/blue buses)

• Semi-luxury (with fewer stops)

• Luxury (air-conditioned, limited stops)

Highways and Expressways

• Major expressways:

• Southern Expressway (E01): Colombo to Matara

• Outer Circular Expressway (E02)

• Colombo–Katunayake Expressway (E03)

• Toll charges apply, but they significantly reduce travel time.

2. Railway Transport

• Sri Lanka Railways (SLR): State-owned rail service.

• Connects Colombo with major cities like Kandy, Galle, Jaffna, Badulla, and more.

• Classes:

• 1st Class (A/C or Observation)

• 2nd Class

• 3rd Class

• Scenic Routes:

• Colombo to Badulla via Kandy and Nuwara Eliya

• Colombo to Galle and Matara along the coast

3. Tuk-tuks and Taxis

• Three-wheelers (Tuk-tuks): Common for short-distance travel, negotiable fares, or meter-based.

• Taxi services:

• Traditional: PickMe, Kangaroo Cabs

• App-based: PickMe, Uber (available mainly in Colombo and suburbs)

4. Ride-hailing and Delivery Services

• PickMe: Offers cars, tuk-tuks, bikes, and even trucks.

• Uber: Operates mainly in Colombo, with car and tuk-tuk options.

• Bolt: Also available in major urban areas.

• Many of these platforms also offer food and package delivery.

5. Air Travel

• Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA): Main international airport near Colombo.

• Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA): Secondary airport, less busy.

• Domestic Flights: Cinnamon Air and Helitours provide charter and domestic flight services.

6. Water Transport

• Limited services, mostly for tourism:

• Boat rides in Bentota, Negombo, Madu Ganga

• Ferries and small boats in lagoons and rivers

• Proposed ferry links between Sri Lanka and India (in progress/planning stages)

7. Logistics & Cargo Services

• Local companies like Aitken Spence, Hayleys Advantis, and Sri Lanka Post offer cargo and courier services.

• International courier services such as DHL, FedEx, and Aramex are available.

Best Hotels in Sri Lanka

Best Hotels. 

1. Ceylon Tea Trails – Hatton

• Location: Bogawantalawa Valley, Central Highlands

• Type: Luxury Tea Bungalow Resort

• Highlights: Colonial-era bungalows, scenic tea plantations, gourmet cuisine, personalized butler service, hiking trails

• Ideal For: Honeymooners, nature lovers, luxury seekers

2. Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa

• Location: Hambantota, Southern Province

• Type: 5-Star Beachfront Resort

• Highlights: 18-hole golf course, Ayurveda spa, adventure park, kids’ club, ocean views

• Ideal For: Families, golfers, beach holidays

3. Jetwing Lighthouse – Galle

• Location: Galle, Southern Coast

• Type: Boutique Luxury Hotel

• Highlights: Designed by Geoffrey Bawa, stunning coastal views, historic ambiance, fine dining, spa

• Ideal For: Couples, architecture lovers, history enthusiasts

4. Cape Weligama

• Location: Weligama, Southern Coast

• Type: Cliffside Luxury Resort

• Highlights: Panoramic ocean views, infinity pools, curated excursions, world-class service

• Ideal For: Romantic getaways, luxury escapes, photographers

Tourist Attractions. 

1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Central Province

Also known as the “Lion Rock,” Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and the ruins of a royal palace atop a massive rock column. Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, it offers panoramic views and rich history.

2. Temple of the Tooth Relic – Kandy

Located in the royal palace complex of Kandy, this sacred Buddhist temple houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. It is one of the most venerated places for Buddhists and is central to the annual Esala Perahera festival.

3. Yala National Park – Southern Province

Yala is Sri Lanka’s most visited national park, famous for its high leopard density. It’s also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. The park offers jeep safaris for wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Galle Fort – Southern Province

A historical fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, Galle Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, museums, and ocean views.

5. Nuwara Eliya – Central Province

Often called “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, cool climate, and colonial-era buildings. Key attractions include Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Horton Plains National Park.

 Destinations.

1. Trincomalee

Located on the northeastern coast, Trincomalee is known for its stunning natural harbor, pristine beaches like Nilaveli and Uppuveli, and vibrant marine life. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and whale watching. Trincomalee is also home to the ancient Koneswaram Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

2. Jaffna

Situated in the far north, Jaffna offers a unique cultural experience with its Tamil heritage, colonial architecture, and spiritual landmarks. The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Jaffna Fort, and nearby islands like Delft provide a rich mix of history, religion, and coastal beauty, far less crowded than other parts of the country.

3. Kalpitiya

A coastal town in the northwest, Kalpitiya is famous for its stunning lagoons, dolphin and whale watching, and water sports like kitesurfing. It’s a peaceful destination with unspoiled beaches and growing eco-tourism appeal, ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

4. Sigiriya

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. The ancient rock fortress rises dramatically from the jungle and features royal gardens, frescoes, and incredible panoramic views. It’s a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and breathtaking scenery.

5. Arugam Bay

Located on the southeast coast, Arugam Bay is a world-renowned surfing destination with a laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for beach lovers, surfers, and backpackers. Beyond the waves, nearby attractions like Lahugala National Park and ancient ruins add cultural and natural depth to the area.

Sri Lanka Map.

Promotional Video

 

Brief Introduction

 Sri Lanka Tourism.

Welcome to Sri Lanka – The Wonder of Asia!

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. From golden sandy beaches and lush green tea plantations to ancient temples and vibrant festivals, the island offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, Sri Lanka promises a journey filled with beauty, flavor, and unforgettable memories.

Welcome to Sri Lanka, a captivating island nation often referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, where ancient heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality await every visitor. This tropical paradise offers a rich tapestry of experiences—golden sandy beaches, lush tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, vibrant cities, and serene countryside. With a history that dates back thousands of years, Sri Lanka is home to magnificent ancient ruins, sacred temples, colonial architecture, and eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nature lovers can explore dense rainforests, go on thrilling wildlife safaris, or relax by tranquil waterfalls, while adventure seekers can enjoy hiking, surfing, and diving. The island’s unique culture is expressed through its colorful festivals, traditional dance, and mouthwatering cuisine, which is a delightful fusion of spices, flavors, and local ingredients. Above all, it is the warmth and friendliness of the Sri Lankan people that make every journey special. Whether you’re here for relaxation, exploration, or cultural immersion, Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable travel experience filled with beauty, charm, and discovery.

Current Trends in Sri Lanka

Current Trends.

Lanka’s tourism sector is experiencing a robust resurgence, marked by significant growth in visitor arrivals and strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering the industry.

Surge in Tourist Arrivals

In 2024, Sri Lanka welcomed over 2 million tourists, reflecting a 38.1% increase compared to the previous year. This upward trajectory continued into 2025, with January alone recording approximately 252,761 arrivals, surpassing figures from the same month in 2018.  By March 26, 2025, the country had seen a 23.2% rise in tourist arrivals, totaling 191,982 visitors for that month.  Notably, Europe accounted for 51.9% of total visitors in December 2024, while Asia and the Pacific contributed 41%, highlighting the evolving dynamics of Sri Lanka’s tourism demographics.  

Emerging Markets and Strategic Goals

Emerging markets have played a pivotal role in this growth, with unconventional source countries outpacing traditional ones in terms of year-on-year growth.  In response, the Sri Lankan government has set ambitious targets, aiming for 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2025 and 5 million annually by 2030, with projected earnings between $8.5 to $10 billion.  

Innovative Initiatives and Trends

To attract a diverse range of travelers, Sri Lanka has introduced several initiatives. A notable example is the launch of Amba Yaalu, the country’s first resort entirely staffed and operated by women, addressing gender disparities in the hospitality sector and offering unique experiences for visitors.  Additionally, the government implemented a six-month pilot program starting October 1, 2024, offering free 30-day tourist visas to travelers from 35 countries, including the U.S. and U.K., to boost tourism during the peak season.  

In terms of hospitality trends, the industry is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence and automation to enhance guest experiences, prioritizing sustainability, and redefining luxury through authentic, experiential travel.  

Overall, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is on a promising path, with strategic initiatives and emerging trends positioning the country as a compelling destination for a diverse array of travelers.