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On July 10th, 2024, Sri Lanka Tourism partnered with the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) to host a unique networking event aboard a cruise along the Ganges River. Targeted towards Kolkata’s travel-trade and media sectors, the event highlighted Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural traditions and varied natural scenery, aiming to foster significant business relationships and alter the prevailing views of this picturesque island nation.
The event kicked off with notable personalities in attendance, including Mr. Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the SLCB; Mr. Manav Soni, Chairman of the Travel Agents Association of India’s Eastern Region Chapter; Mr. Bilolaksha Das, Chairman of the Travel Agents Federation of India’s Eastern India Chapter; Mr. Dammika Kulathunga, Northern India Manager for SriLankan Airlines; Mr. Debjit Dutta, Chairman of the West Bengal Chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators; Mr. Sanjiv Mehra, President of SKAL International – India; Mr. Amin Asghar, President of the Kolkata Chapter of SKAL International; and Ms. Malkanthi Welikala, Marketing Manager at the SLCB.
Sri Lanka – A Destination That Calls You Back
Embracing the captivating slogan “Sri Lanka – You’ll Come Back for More,” the event was designed to captivate Indian tourists by showcasing the rich array of travel experiences available in Sri Lanka. The gathering in Kolkata saw approximately 300 local travel agents, key industry stakeholders, and media figures come together, interacting with a prominent group of 25 Destination Management Companies (DMCs) from Sri Lanka, experts in both Leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sectors. The event also featured top-tier hotels, resorts, homestays, tour organizers, and other service providers.
Bolstering Tourism Connections with India
India continues to be a crucial market for Sri Lanka, as evidenced by the nearly 200,000 Indian visitors this year alone. The provision of visa-free access for Indian citizens is anticipated to elevate these figures significantly, potentially setting new records in 2024. Sri Lanka Tourism is dedicated to delivering exceptional tourist experiences, ensuring all visitors, including investors from India, feel secure and well-catered to with comprehensive safety measures.
Dynamic Marketing Initiatives
Sri Lanka is intensively targeting the Indian market through a dynamic series of multi-city B2B roadshows covering Bengaluru, Chennai, Cochin, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, and New Delhi. This robust presence is further reinforced by participating in major travel trade expos like the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) in Mumbai and the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) in New Delhi. The promotional activities will continue throughout the year, including appearances at travel exhibitions such as TTF-Kolkata, IITM-Bengaluru, and IITM-Chennai. A new series of B2B roadshows is also scheduled in various Tier-II cities in September 2024.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s Diverse Charms
The event in Kolkata served as a vibrant showcase of what Sri Lanka has to offer, from its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage to its hospitable environment. Participants enjoyed presentations and discussions that highlighted the country’s diverse attractions, such as untouched beaches and historic temples, ushering in a promising new era of tourism for Sri Lanka.
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