Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau Hosts Summer Roadshow in Chongqing

Chongqing - On July 15, the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau's 2024 Summer Roadshow for China made its stop in Southwest China's Chongqing, drawing together Sri Lankan tourism officials and representatives from nearly 20 key island destination management companies, hotel groups, and travel agencies. The event showcased the diverse cultural, leisure, exhibitions, and tourism resources of Sri Lanka.

On July 15, the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau's 2024 China Summer Roadshow stopped in Chongqing, drawing together Sri Lankan tourism officials and representatives from nearly 20 key island destination management companies, hotel groups, and travel agencies. (Photo/The event organizer)

Mr. Chinthaka, head of the China Desk at the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), said, "With Chongqing Airlines launching direct flights between Chongqing and Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital, in late June, we are confident that more and more Chinese tourists will visit this beautiful country."

Renowned as a treasure trove of island tourism and often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka offers an array of experiences. At the roadshow, the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau highlighted eight recommended experiences: pristine beaches, breathtaking scenery, world heritage sites, wildlife, Sri Lankan gems, adventure sports, delightful indulgences, and festive celebrations.

Renowned as a treasure trove of island tourism and often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka offers an array of experiences. (Photo/The event organizer)

"If you particularly enjoy picturesque beaches, Sri Lanka offers options like Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Trincomalee, and Nilaveli," a representative from the bureau said. "Here, you can either enjoy the serenity of the azure sea and blue sky or experience the thrill of surfing. Moreover, diving enthusiasts can explore shipwrecks beneath the waves."

Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes have created numerous stunning natural sceneries, making it a paradise for flora and fauna. "Visitors who love animals can see the largest land and sea mammals in Sri Lanka: elephants and blue whales. There's even a chance to spot the elusive leopard," the representative added. They highlighted that July and August are prime months to witness the spectacular elephant migrations in national parks.

As many countries introduce immersive travel experiences to attract foreign visitors, Sri Lanka is also well-prepared. "Last year, we launched a 'Tea Trail' hiking product, which was selected as one of National Geographic's Top 20 Travel Experiences for 2024," Mr. Chinthaka said. "On this route, tourists will encounter various landscapes, cities, and especially different tea-growing regions, offering a firsthand experience of Sri Lankan tea."

Renowned as a treasure trove of island tourism and often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka offers an array of experiences. (Photo/The event organizer)

Sri Lanka continues to waive visa fees for Chinese tourists. Addressing concerns about language barriers and mobile payment issues, Mr. Chinthaka reassured visitors, "Our airlines offer Chinese services on every flight from China to Sri Lanka. During group tours, there are Chinese-speaking tour leaders and official guides. In hotels, Chinese is a language included in staff training. If tourists crave Chinese cuisine, there are Chinese restaurants available. Additionally, Alipay services have been operational in Sri Lanka since last year."

In 2023, Sri Lanka received 1,487,303 tourists worldwide, with 68,789 from China. In the first quarter of 2024, Sri Lanka welcomed 635,784 global tourists, including 39,212 Chinese tourists, a more than sevenfold increase from the same period in 2023. Currently, China ranks as Sri Lanka's fifth-largest source of overseas tourists.

Mr. Chinthaka emphasized that the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau will continue to introduce various tourism products tailored to Chinese companies and tourists, exploring new possibilities in leisure tourism, MICE tourism, health tourism, and event organization.

Notably, Chongqing is the second stop of the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau's 2024 China Summer Roadshow. Mr. Chinthaka explained that Chongqing was chosen for its strategic location, significant influence, and strong consumer power.