Karachi: Sri Lanka has taken another confident step toward strengthening its presence in the Pakistani travel market, as Sri Lanka Tourism concluded a vibrant and highly engaging B2B Roadshow and Networking Evening in Karachi. The event marked a major milestone in the island nation’s ongoing efforts to deepen tourism, trade, and cultural ties with Pakistan.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Karachi and SriLankan Airlines, the roadshow reaffirmed Pakistan’s position as one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable and fast-growing source markets.
Positioning Sri Lanka as a Year-Round Destination for Pakistani Travelers
The event set out with a clear message: Sri Lanka is open fully, confidently, and enthusiastically for leisure, business, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) tourism.
From pristine beaches and cultural heritage to nature, adventure, wellness travel, and premium corporate experiences, Sri Lanka is aiming to capture the attention of Pakistani travelers across all segments.
The Karachi roadshow highlighted:
• Sri Lanka’s year-round tourism appeal
• Its versatile experience offerings for leisure and business
• The country’s strong resilience and sustainable tourism revival
• The warm hospitality and close proximity that make Sri Lanka a top choice for Pakistani visitors
A Strong B2B Turnout and High-Value Networking
A delegation of leading Sri Lankan destination management companies participated in the event, engaging directly with Pakistan’s travel and tourism sector. More than 75 travel agents, industry leaders, and tourism stakeholders attended, making it one of the most successful Sri Lanka-focused tourism engagements in Pakistan in recent years.
The result?
Productive B2B conversations, new partnerships, and renewed confidence in Sri Lanka as a high-potential travel destination for Pakistani tourists.
Rising Tourism From Pakistan: A Market on the Move
Tourist arrivals from Pakistan to Sri Lanka are steadily increasing, with 20,701 Pakistani visitors recorded in 2025.
Several factors are fueling this rise:
• Improved air connectivity
• Simplified visa processes
• A resurgence in outbound leisure and business travel
• Convenience of eight weekly SriLankan Airlines flights, four from Karachi and four from Lahore to Colombo
This growing accessibility has positioned Sri Lanka as a competitive and easily reachable destination for Pakistani families, honeymooners, adventurers, and corporate travelers.
Cultural Performances and Media Engagements Add Vibrance
A Sri Lankan traditional dance troupe brought color and cultural energy to the evening, giving Karachi’s travel community a glimpse of the island’s rich heritage. Parallel media briefings with top Pakistani outlets amplified Sri Lanka’s tourism message, expanding public awareness and reinforcing its renewed tourism momentum.
Mr. Sanjeewa Pattiwila
Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi
He highlighted the centuries-old ties between both nations—cultural, religious, and historical—and invited Pakistani travelers to explore Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, warmth, and diversity. He also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s humanitarian assistance following Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025.
Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi
Chairman, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB)
He emphasized Sri Lanka’s comprehensive offerings for both leisure and MICE tourism, reaffirming Pakistan as a priority market and underscoring SLCB’s efforts to support business and incentive travel groups.
Mr. Ruwan Wijekoon
Manager Pakistan, SriLankan Airlines
He reiterated the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and revealed attractive airfares designed specifically for holidaymakers. He expressed strong optimism about the rising interest in leisure, cultural, and corporate travel from Pakistan.
Why Pakistan Matters to Sri Lanka Tourism
Pakistan is emerging as a rapidly expanding outbound market where travelers are increasingly seeking authentic, meaningful, and value-driven travel experiences. Sri Lanka, with its:
• pristine beaches
• cultural heritage
• wildlife and nature
• adventure and wellness
• business and MICE facilities
is ideally positioned to meet this demand.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in Pakistan–Sri Lanka Tourism Relations
The Karachi Roadshow not only strengthened tourism opportunities but also deepened the bond of friendship between the two countries. It created new avenues for collaboration, trade growth, and future tourism development.
As Sri Lanka continues to rebuild and expand its global footprint, Pakistan stands firmly among its most promising partners opening doors to shared growth and a new era of tourism excellence.