Sri Lanka has set an ambitious target of welcoming five million international tourists annually by 2030, according to Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
Addressing the launch of the Gampaha District Tourism Promotion Strategic Plan in Negombo, the Minister highlighted tourist safety as a major priority in the country’s efforts to expand its tourism sector.
He announced that the government plans to strengthen the Tourist Police through proposed legal amendments that would provide the unit with broader authority. Plans are also underway to establish a dedicated Tourist Police structure operating separately from the conventional police service, while recruiting additional personnel to support its operations.
Herath noted that maintaining political and economic stability, together with a peaceful environment free from ethnic, religious and extremist tensions, would be crucial to attracting greater numbers of international visitors.
He acknowledged that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector was gradually recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but emphasized that sustained efforts were necessary to ensure its long-term growth and stability.
The Minister further highlighted the need to balance infrastructure development with the preservation of the country's natural environment, cultural heritage and traditional hospitality.
Warning about the consequences of neglecting these valuable assets, Herath said that future generations might only have the opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and heritage through artificial intelligence-generated images if proper conservation measures were not taken today.
The Pekoe Trail Secures Top Honours at the 2026 World Trails Network Awards for Trail Tourism
Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail has secured the prestigious Trail Tourism Award 2026 at the World Trails Network Awards, held yesterday in Perth, Australia.
The international accolade recognizes the country’s outstanding natural landscapes, cultural heritage and vibrant local communities, while highlighting the growing potential of trail-based tourism as a key contributor to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.
The award also underscores how trail tourism can attract international hiking enthusiasts, generate sustainable income opportunities for rural communities and increase tourism-related revenue.
The achievement reflects the collective efforts of the communities, Trail Hosts, partners, supporters and hikers who have contributed to developing and promoting The Pekoe Trail.
As the company responsible for managing the trail, The Pekoe Trail Company expressed pride in receiving the international recognition, reaffirming its commitment to the trail’s sustainable development, environmental conservation and the meaningful involvement of communities along its route.
The company also emphasized its ambition to introduce more international visitors to Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through memorable hiking experiences.
Sri Lanka Aims to Welcome 5 Million Tourists by 2030, Strengthens Tourist Police Services
