Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Networking Event in Kolkata to Boost Indian Engagement

Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Networking Event in Kolkata to Boost Indian Engagement

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 12, 2024

Sri Lanka Tourism, in partnership with the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), hosted a networking event on a cruise over the Ganges River in Kolkata on July 10, 2024. The event aimed to highlight Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes to Kolkata's travel trade and media professionals, fostering new business partnerships and reshaping perceptions of the island nation.

Prominent figures such as Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the SLCB, and Manav Soni, Chairman of the Eastern Region Chapter of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), were present. They, along with other industry leaders, emphasized the importance of the event in strengthening the tourism ties between Sri Lanka and India.

The event was part of the campaign “Sri Lanka – You’ll Come Back for More,” designed to entice Indian travelers by showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings. Around 300 of Kolkata’s travel agents and media representatives interacted with a 25-member delegation from Sri Lanka, including destination management companies, hotels, resorts, and tour operators.

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India is a vital market for Sri Lanka, with nearly 200,000 Indian tourists visiting so far this year. The extended visa-free entry for Indian nationals is expected to boost these numbers, setting new records in 2024. Sri Lanka Tourism remains committed to providing the best tourist experiences, assuring Indian tourists and investors of their readiness to welcome them with necessary safety and security measures in place.

Sri Lanka is aggressively targeting the Indian market with B2B roadshows in cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Cochin, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, and New Delhi. These efforts are complemented by participation in major travel trade shows like the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) in Mumbai and the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) in New Delhi. Additional roadshows in Tier-II markets are planned for September 2024.

Honorable Minister Harin Fernando expressed gratitude to India for its consistent support of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s progress as a middle-income nation with strong economic indicators. In 2023, tourism earnings exceeded $2 billion, and by April 2024, revenues had already surpassed $1.25 billion. The goal for 2024 is to attract 2.5 million tourists, supported by the global marketing campaign “You’ll Come Back for More.”

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Chalaka D. Gajabahu, Chairman of the SLTPB, emphasized the growth of tourism beyond beach attractions to include sports, culture, spirituality, and history. The strategic marketing efforts in India are aimed at increasing tourist arrivals and reinforcing the connection between the two countries.

Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the SLCB, highlighted Sri Lanka’s emergence as a preferred destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events. Enhanced venues and accessibility have made Sri Lanka an attractive location for corporate events. The MICE sector saw significant success with the third MICE expo in May 2024, featuring 100 international buyers and 113 local suppliers. India remains a key market for MICE travel, with expectations for significant revenue growth in this segment.

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The networking evening in Kolkata showcased Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere through discussions and presentations. Attendees experienced Sri Lanka’s varied attractions, from pristine beaches to ancient temples, marking a new chapter of tourism excellence for the island nation.

About Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) is the official government agency responsible for marketing and promoting Sri Lanka's travel and tourism sector. Working with various stakeholders, the SLTPB aims to position Sri Lanka as a premier tourist destination, highlighting its unique cultural and natural attractions. The bureau's efforts focus on both local and international markets, driving tourism development and fostering sustainable growth in the industry.


Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

As Thailand captures the world’s imagination—serving as the backdrop for the newest season of The White Lotus and the much-awaited Jurassic World Rebirth—there’s never been a better time to visit. Perched gracefully on Krabi’s stunning Andaman shoreline, Phulay Bay, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, gives travellers a chance to step into these cinematic stories, all while immersing in Thailand’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Krabi’s soul in 2025:

Explore Krabi’s Untouched Wonders

Embark on Phulay Bay’s exclusive Discover the Jurassic Paradise adventure—a curated journey inspired by Krabi’s prehistoric charm and its starring role in the upcoming Jurassic World film. Start with a stroll on Pak Bia Island’s powdery sands, hemmed in by towering karst cliffs and turquoise seas. Then kayak across the still waters of Klong Root—also known as Mirror Lake—where lush canopies reflect so perfectly, it feels like paddling through a painting. From secret lagoons to wild forest trails, this is Krabi in its raw, magical form.

A Taste of Thailand: Cook Like a Local

Food is at the heart of Thai culture, and there’s no better way to connect than by learning to cook like a local. At Phulay Bay, join a small, hands-on Thai cooking class that starts with hand-picking fresh herbs and produce. Discover how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pick up time-honoured kitchen techniques, and prepare classic dishes. The best bit? You’ll feast on your creations in a serene nook of the resort—often at the Chomtawan Bar—paired with sunset views and a soft sea breeze.

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Reconnect with Yourself at The Spa

Begin your day with yoga by the sea, where gentle Andaman waves and rustling palms set the rhythm for breathwork and meditation. Then retreat to The Spa at Phulay Bay, an expansive haven with 11 treatment rooms, vitality pools, steam and sauna facilities. Indulge in rituals drawn from Thai and global wellness traditions—whether it’s a warm herbal compress, sound therapy with singing bowls, or a detox session with local botanicals. It’s restoration, reimagined.

Muay Thai: A Cultural Workout

Blend fitness and tradition with Phulay Bay’s Muay Thai sessions. Held in a calm indoor-outdoor studio, these workouts are led by seasoned trainers and tailored to all skill levels. You’ll learn the art of Thai boxing—mastering punches, kicks, and elbow strikes—while uncovering stories behind Thailand’s national sport. It’s as invigorating for the body as it is enlightening for the mind.

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Walk with Giants: The Elephant Sanctuary Experience

In partnership with the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, Phulay Bay offers a respectful, deeply moving way to meet Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend your morning alongside rescued elephants: feed them, give them playful mud baths, or join them for a dip. Guided by passionate sanctuary workers and the resort’s dedicated team, this immersive experience highlights conservation efforts and forges connections that last long after you leave.

Plan the Extraordinary

At Phulay Bay, every moment is artfully crafted—where personal butlers, bespoke experiences, and Krabi’s natural splendour come together in seamless harmony. Whether you’re chasing cinematic landscapes, culinary adventures, or soulful Thai traditions, this is where you embrace the extraordinary.

Plan your journey to Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and let Krabi’s spirit become part of yours.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.


TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 28, 2025

TV9 Network has partnered with SKIL Corporate Travel, India’s leading corporate travel and event management firm, as the Official Travel Partner for the News9 Global Summit, UAE Edition. Organised by News9 and promoted by TV9 Network, this summit marked its second international edition, bringing together a distinguished group of Indian policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and global thought leaders to chart India’s growing global influence.

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As the Official Travel Partner, SKIL Corporate Travel seamlessly managed end-to-end logistics for all attending delegates and speakers — covering international and domestic flights, local transportation, and comprehensive on-ground support throughout the summit.

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Elevating its engagement beyond operational support, Mr. Shylender Jindal, Managing Director, SKIL Group, also featured as a distinguished speaker at the Summit. He contributed to the headline panel titled "Delhi to Dubai: Building the Startup Corridor," offering insights on the future of mobility, cross-border innovation, and India’s dynamic role in shaping global entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Vikash Kejriwal, CEO, SKIL Group, said,

"We are honoured to partner with TV9 for this international edition of the News9 Global Summit. As India steps into its role as a global business powerhouse, we are proud to support the journeys that move those ideas forward. Our experience in handling high-stakes, cross-border corporate travel makes this a natural and meaningful collaboration."

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With decades of experience in managing CXO delegations, enterprise mobility, and large-scale international conferences, SKIL Corporate Travel continues to stand out as a trusted name in premium corporate travel services, seamlessly blending efficiency with excellence across sectors and destinations.

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