Sri Lanka Convention Bureau to Hold MICE Tourism Roadshows in Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai
Chennai: Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, operating under Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, will organise a series of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) roadshows and networking sessions in Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai during the last week of May 2026.
The initiative aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a preferred MICE tourism destination for the Indian market, which remains one of the country’s largest tourism source regions.
According to the schedule, the first event will be held at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre on May 25, followed by ITC Sonar in Kolkata on May 27, and Pullman Chennai Anna Salai on May 29.
Tourism officials said India continues to play a major role in Sri Lanka’s tourism growth. Data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority showed that more than 5.31 lakh Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka in 2025, accounting for nearly 22 per cent of the country’s total tourist arrivals. Sri Lanka also recorded its highest-ever Indian tourist arrivals during the year.
The country’s tourism earnings crossed USD 3.2 billion in 2025, while MICE and business tourism contributed nearly 10 per cent of total tourist arrivals.
From January to mid-May 2026, Sri Lanka welcomed over 9.5 lakh tourists, including more than 2.21 lakh visitors from India, reflecting growing travel demand and stronger regional connectivity.
Air connectivity between the two countries continues to expand, with SriLankan Airlines operating 90 weekly flights connecting Sri Lanka with nine Indian cities. Airlines including IndiGo and Air India also operate regular services to Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai.
The roadshows will feature participation from a 24-member Sri Lankan delegation comprising leading tour operators and hospitality representatives. The events are expected to facilitate business-to-business interactions, networking opportunities, and discussions between tourism stakeholders from both countries.
Cultural performances by Sri Lankan artists and press conferences in all three cities are also planned as part of the promotional campaign.
Speaking about the initiative, Dheera Hettiarachchi said Sri Lanka’s proximity and strong air connectivity with India make it an attractive and cost-effective destination for meetings, conferences, exhibitions and incentive travel.
