The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, successfully organized a series of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) Roadshows and Networking Evenings across Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai during the last week of May 2026.
The initiative was aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s position as a preferred MICE destination for the Indian market, one of the country’s most significant tourism source markets.
The roadshow series commenced on May 25 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, followed by an event at ITC Sonar, Kolkata on May 27, and concluded at Pullman Chennai Anna Salai on May 29. The events brought together MICE specialists, wedding planners, professional conference organizers and corporate MICE buyers.
India continues to be a key market for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, 531,511 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2025, accounting for 22% of the country’s total tourist arrivals. The year also marked the highest-ever number of Indian tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka, while tourism earnings crossed USD 3.2 billion.
MICE and business tourism currently contribute approximately 10% of Sri Lanka’s total tourist arrivals and remain an important segment of the tourism industry.
From January to May 2026, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1 million international visitors, including 245,981 travellers from India. Strong air connectivity continues to support tourism growth, with SriLankan Airlines operating 90 weekly flights connecting Sri Lanka to nine Indian cities. IndiGo and Air India also operate daily services to Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai.
The roadshows highlighted Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings, world-class meeting infrastructure, hospitality and unique destination experiences. A 24-member delegation comprising leading Sri Lankan tour operators and hoteliers participated in the initiative, engaging with Indian travel trade professionals through structured B2B meetings and networking sessions.
The events also featured a cultural performance by a Sri Lankan troupe, offering attendees a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and traditions.
Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, said, “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.”
