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.


Akasa Air Enters Rajasthan with Daily Direct Flights to Udaipur

Akasa Air Enters Rajasthan with Daily Direct Flights to Udaipur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 29, 2026

Akasa Air has announced its entry into Rajasthan with the launch of daily direct flights connecting Udaipur with Mumbai and Bengaluru from October 15, 2026. The new services strengthen the airline's domestic network while enhancing connectivity to one of India's most popular leisure and hospitality destinations.

Bookings for the new routes are now open through Akasa Air's website, mobile application and authorised travel partners. The airline said the expansion reflects growing demand for leisure travel, destination weddings and premium tourism from key metropolitan markets.

Commenting on the launch, Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, said, "We are delighted to launch services to Udaipur, a city that represents India's rich cultural heritage and continues to see strong demand across leisure and hospitality travel. With direct connectivity from Mumbai and Bengaluru, customers will now have more convenient access to one of the country's most iconic destinations."

"As we continue to strengthen our domestic footprint, our focus remains on building a network that is relevant, customer-centric, and aligned with evolving travel demand. Udaipur is an important addition to our portfolio, and we look forward to offering travellers Akasa Air's warm, dependable, and efficient flying experience."

The airline said Udaipur's growing popularity as a destination for leisure holidays, weddings and experiential travel made it a strategic addition to its expanding network. The new routes are expected to improve access for both domestic tourists and business travellers while supporting the city's tourism and hospitality sectors.

Akasa Air added that the launch aligns with its strategy of building a demand-driven domestic network and improving connectivity to emerging tourism markets across India. The airline continues to expand its footprint by adding destinations with strong leisure and business travel potential.

Passengers travelling on Akasa Air can also benefit from the airline's customer-focused offerings, including its young fleet, onboard dining through Café Akasa, digital services and a range of ancillary products designed to enhance the overall travel experience.


Beyond the Forecast: Discovering Monsoon Travel at The Serai Resorts

Beyond the Forecast: Discovering Monsoon Travel at The Serai Resorts

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

As travel preferences shift towards slower, more meaningful experiences, a new mindset is reshaping the way people explore destinations. Trends such as “quietcations” and “hushpitality” are gaining momentum among Gen Z and millennial travellers, reflecting a growing desire to disconnect from digital overload and reconnect with nature. In this evolving landscape, the monsoon season offers a natural backdrop for mindful travel, and The Serai Resorts brings this philosophy to life across its properties in Chikmagalur, Kabini, and Bandipur.

At The Serai Chikmagalur, nestled within Karnataka’s Malnad region, the monsoon transforms coffee plantations into lush green expanses wrapped in mist and rain. The season enhances the estate’s natural beauty, offering guests slow mornings overlooking plantations, guided coffee estate walks, cycling trails through rain-kissed landscapes, and moments of stillness surrounded by drifting clouds. The experience encourages travellers to embrace a slower rhythm deeply connected to nature.

In Kabini, the monsoon breathes renewed life into the backwaters and surrounding forests, creating one of the most serene seasons in the region. At The Serai Kabini, guests can engage with nature through coracle rides, kayaking, speedboat excursions, and guided walks through thriving ecosystems. Family-friendly experiences such as archery and the Junior Chef programme add interactive elements, while the rains create a calming atmosphere of renewal and immersion.

Meanwhile, The Serai Bandipur offers a tranquil gateway to the wilderness on the edge of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. During the monsoon, the forests turn vibrant and alive, offering an ideal setting for unhurried nature walks, quiet wildlife observation, and reflective moments in the heart of the forest landscape. The experience is designed for travellers seeking a deeper connection with nature, supported by thoughtful hospitality and spacious accommodations.

Across all three destinations, The Serai Resorts positions monsoon not as a season to avoid but as an opportunity to rediscover travel in its most authentic form. In a world increasingly drawn to wellness, mindfulness, and experiential luxury, these retreats offer an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the beauty of nature at its most expressive.


From Summit Selfies to Stadium Seats: Father’s Day Travel Trends Redefining Family Getaways

From Summit Selfies to Stadium Seats: Father’s Day Travel Trends Redefining Family Getaways

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

Father’s Day in India is increasingly being redefined by experiences rather than material gifts, as families choose to celebrate through travel, shared adventures, and meaningful time together. Insights from travel companies such as Thomas Cook India Limited and SOTC Travel highlight a clear shift toward experiential getaways that bring fathers and families closer through curated journeys.

Adventure travel continues to be a strong favourite, with families heading outdoors for trekking experiences that combine physical activity with bonding moments. Destinations like the Valley of Flowers, Kashmir’s alpine meadows, Coorg’s coffee trails, and Meghalaya’s living root bridges are among the most sought-after choices, alongside international hiking routes in Switzerland, New Zealand, and Japan.

Road trips remain equally popular, driven by nostalgia and spontaneity. From Ladakh’s high-altitude highways to Rajasthan’s heritage circuits and coastal drives through Karnataka, families are embracing the journey as much as the destination. International scenic routes across Australia, Portugal, and New Zealand are also gaining traction for Father’s Day getaways.

Sporting experiences are emerging as a key travel driver, with families planning trips around live events such as cricket matches, Formula 1 races in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, and football fixtures across Europe. These experiences are increasingly seen as bucket-list moments shared across generations.

Wildlife safaris continue to attract families seeking immersive, nature-driven holidays. Parks such as Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, Kabini, Gir, and Kaziranga remain top domestic choices, while Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius are popular international alternatives offering rich biodiversity and unique wildlife encounters.

Multi-generational travel is another growing trend, with families choosing destinations that cater to all age groups. From Kerala’s backwaters and Rajasthan’s heritage stays to international favourites like Thailand, Singapore, and Switzerland, these trips are designed to bring grandparents, parents, and children together in shared celebration.

Wellness-focused travel is also gaining momentum, with families opting for slower, restorative breaks in destinations like Kerala, Goa, and Bali. Ayurveda retreats, spa resorts, and forest escapes are becoming preferred ways to help fathers unwind and reset.

Short-haul international escapes continue to appeal to families seeking quick but enriching holidays, with destinations like Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and Mauritius offering a balance of accessibility and experience.

A growing trend within Father’s Day travel is passion-led holidays, where trips are designed around a father’s interests from golf and photography to culinary trails, cycling expeditions, and heritage journeys.

Overall, Father’s Day travel reflects a broader cultural shift: experiences are replacing gifts as families prioritise connection, shared memories, and meaningful time together over traditional celebrations

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