Sri Lanka announces free visas for Indians to boost tourism

Sri Lanka, in a bid to revitalize its tourism sector, has taken a significant step by waiving visa fees for tourists from seven countries, including India. This move aims to attract more visitors and help the country recover from recent economic challenges.

Background

• Sri Lanka has faced multiple setbacks in its tourism industry, including the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, and an economic crisis in 2022.
• These events severely impacted the number of tourists visiting the island nation.

Key Decision

• To boost tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has initiated a pilot project to issue free tourist visas to travelers from China, India, Russia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan.
• This policy will be in effect until March 31, 2024.

Significance for Indian Tourists

• India has historically been Sri Lanka’s top source market. This year alone, more than 2 lakh Indian tourists, constituting 20% of total arrivals, visited Sri Lanka until September.
• Previously, Indian tourists were required to pay a $20 visa fee, but this requirement has been waived, making it easier and more affordable for Indians to travel to Sri Lanka.

Boosting Tourism Industry

• The decision to offer free tourist visas is part of a larger strategy to promote Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, alongside exports and worker remittances.
• By making entry more accessible, Sri Lanka aims to attract a higher number of visitors and stimulate economic growth.

Intriguing Insights into Sri Lanka

• Pearl of the Indian Ocean: Nicknamed due to natural beauty and gemstones; also called “Teardrop of India” because of its shape and location.

• Rich Biodiversity: Despite its small size, Sri Lanka boasts diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
• Yala National Park: A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, home to numerous animal species.
• Tea Capital: Sri Lanka is a major player in the global tea industry; Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its tea plantations.
• Cinnamon Hub: Known for high-quality cinnamon production.
• Sacred Site: Adam’s Peak, the country’s most sacred mountain, attracts pilgrims from various religions.
• Origin of “Serendipity”: Sri Lanka gave the English language the term “serendipity.”
• Historic Flag: Boasts one of the world’s oldest national flags.
• Buddha’s Tooth: A temple in Kandy houses one of Buddha’s teeth, a significant religious relic.
• Trailblazing Nation: Sri Lanka had the world’s first female prime minister.
• High Literacy Rate: Boasts the highest literacy rate in South Asia.
• Unique Communication: Locals nod their heads to signify agreement.
• National Sport: Volleyball holds the status of the national sport.

• Ancient Tree: Home to the world’s oldest human-planted tree.