BY DEBAJYOTI CHAKRABORTY
KOLKATA | 27 MAY 2026
The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, functioning under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, has already successfully organised two impactful MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Roadshows and Evening Networking Sessions in Ahmedabad and Kolkata, and the third will be followed at Chennai during the last week of May 2026. This initiative forms part of a focused effort to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a preferred MICE tourism destination in India, one of the country’s most important source markets.
The first roadshow was held on 25th May 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre in Ahmedabad, followed by the Kolkata on 27th May 2026 at the ITC Sonar. The third roadshow will take place on 29th May 2026 at the Pullman Chennai Anna Salai in Chennai.
Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, stated, “Sri Lanka is an ideal MICE destination due to its close proximity and strong connectivity with India, making it a cost-effective and attractive choice for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. These MICE promotions will further showcase Sri Lanka’s growth and strengthen tourism and business ties between the two countries.”
India continues to be a leading source market for Sri Lanka tourism in both leisure and MICE tourism, offering immense growth opportunities. It has consistently maintained its position as the. According to statistics published by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, a total of 531,511 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2025, representing 22% of the country’s total tourist arrivals. Sri Lanka also achieved a historic milestone in 2025 by recording the highest number of Indian tourist arrivals ever received by the country. In addition, Sri Lanka’s tourism earnings surpassed USD 3.2 billion during the year 2025.
MICE and business tourism accounts for approximately 10% of the total tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka and remains a significant sub-sector within the tourism industry.
From January to mid-May 2026, Sri Lanka welcomed 951,742 tourists, of which 221,953 were from India. This positive trend reflects the growing demand for travel and the strong connectivity between the two neighbouring countries.
Travel between Sri Lanka and India remains highly convenient, with Sri Lankan Airlines operating 90 weekly flights connecting Sri Lanka with nine Indian cities. In addition, IndiGo and Air India operate daily flights to Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Chennai, ensuring seamless accessibility for both business and leisure travellers.
The upcoming roadshows will showcase Sri Lanka’s diverse MICE and tourism offerings, reaffirming that the destination is fully open and prepared to welcome leisure, business, and corporate travellers. The events are specifically designed to engage MICE tour operators, media representatives, influencers, corporate leaders, trade associations, and other key stakeholders from the Indian travel industry.
A 24-member delegation comprising leading Sri Lankan tour operators and hoteliers are Participating in this initiative, highlighting the country’s diverse attractions, world-class infrastructure and hospitality, and unique experiences. Mr. Damika Kulatunge, Manager Northern India of Sri Lankan Airlines, Ms. Malkanthi Welikala, manager Marketing of Sri Lanka Convention Bureau were also present amongst others.
Mr. Anjani Kumau Dhanuka, Chairman ( East) of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and Ms. Punam Arora, Treasurer of TAAI Eastern India were also present and spoke on the occasion .
These Sri Lanka Tourism MICE promotions are structured to facilitate meaningful B2B Business-to-Business) interactions and productive dialogue among industry stakeholders.
Evening networking sessions will further strengthen professional relationships in a more informal setting. In addition, press conferences scheduled in all three cities are expected to generate extensive media coverage and enhance Sri Lanka’s visibility as a premier travel and MICE destination. A performance by a Sri Lankan cultural troupe will also provide a vibrant cultural showcase, highlighting the country’s rich heritage and traditions.
About Sri Lanka Convention Bureau:
Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) is the official governmental body and the main objective is to promote the growth of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Industry in Sri Lanka. Currently, SLCB is functioning under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism.
SLCB is the go-to organization for meeting planners, incentive houses, corporations, and associations interested in arranging and executing events in Sri Lanka. From handling inquiries to providing support for events, SLCB offers a comprehensive range of services.
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