Latest news with #SriLankaConventionBureau
Hans India
3 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Sri Lanka Tourism boosts Indian MICE Engagement with Dynamic and Exclusive Networking Evening in TAJ Krishna, Hyderabad
The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), under the aegis of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, successfully conducted a MICE Roadshow and Press Conference in TAJ Krishna, Hyderabad, on July 1st, 2025. This event was a significant step in Sri Lanka's strategy to position itself as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. The roadshow saw robust participation from key Indian MICE planners, corporate travel specialists, and travel trade partners. A strong delegation from Sri Lanka, including Officials from SLCB, 20 Destination Management Companies (both leisure and MICE-focused), leading hotels & resorts, tour operators, and other service providers, engaged in networking with the Indian attendees and media. The primary objective of this initiative was to fortify the existing bonds between Sri Lanka and India, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships within the burgeoning tourism and MICE sectors. The increasing influx of Indian tourists to Sri Lanka has been a major contributor to the surge in overall tourist arrivals, with 204,060 Indian visitors recorded between January and May 31st, 2025. This highlights India as a crucial market for Sri Lankan tourism. The roadshow aimed to establish a strong and lasting brand presence for Sri Lanka in India, specifically targeting Hyderabad to attract more visitors. By showcasing Sri Lanka's diverse tourism offerings, varied attractions, and advancements in its MICE infrastructure, the event sought to reinforce Sri Lanka's appeal as a year-round destination for MICE activities. The emphasis was on highlighting the country's readiness and capabilities to host world-class business events. This strategic roadshow aligns with Sri Lanka's broader promotional efforts to intensify its outreach to Indian travellers, leveraging India's position as one of its largest key markets. Harsha Ruparathne, Actg. Deputy High Commissioner, Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission in Chennai, India 'Sri Lanka is widely recognized as an exciting and diverse holiday destination by all global visitors and now it is a most sought-after venue for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. With India's economy on an upward trajectory, Sri Lanka stands to benefit immensely by integrating into India's growth story through joint ventures, increased exports and deeper economic linkages through tourism etc. Therefore, we welcome Indian travellers to visit Sri Lanka to revitalize its economy for shared prosperity as its closest neighbour'. Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau 'Sri Lanka is an excellent MICE destination due to its proximity and strong connectivity, making it a cost-effective and appealing option for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. These roadshows will showcase Sri Lanka's growth and help strengthen ties with India. India continues to be a top priority source market for Sri Lanka's MICE sector. Events like these allow us to forge meaningful collaborations with Indian travel leaders.' Fawzan Fareid, Regional Manager India, Bangladesh & Nepal, SriLankan Airlines 'MICE movement out of India is a goldmine contributing nearly 15–20% of the total outbound leisure travel market. We've observed a strong upward trend in MICE travel from India to Sri Lanka with a growth of over 30% in recent months. At SriLankan Airlines we're extremely excited to partner with the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau to double MICE arrivals to Sri Lanka. Series of Road Shows across key Indian cities will undoubtedly boost our efforts and reinforce Sri Lanka's position as a leading MICE destination in the region.' The networking evening proved to be a resounding success. The evening facilitated dynamic one-on-one interactions, allowing Sri Lankan tourism partners to directly engage with Indian MICE planners, corporate travel specialists, and travel trade partners. Attendees were provided with up-to-date information on the latest infrastructure developments, attractive incentives, and streamlined travel facilitation processes, all designed to enhance the MICE experience in Sri Lanka. This successful roadshow represents a significant milestone in the SLCB's strategic efforts to further penetrate the lucrative Indian outbound MICE market. Given the growing air connectivity between the two nations and a strong shared cultural affinity, Sri Lanka is well-positioned to cement its role as a premier MICE partner for Indian corporates and travel planners.
Hans India
25-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Sri Lanka Convention Bureau to Host MICE Roadshows in Hyderabad and Bangalore
The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission in Chennai, is set to organise two impactful MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Roadshows and Evening Networking Sessions in Hyderabad and Bangalore during the first week of July 2025. This initiative is part of a focused effort to enhance Sri Lanka's tourism presence in India, one of its most significant source markets. The first roadshow will be held on July 1st, 2025, at the Taj Krishna Hotel in Hyderabad, followed by the second roadshow on July 3rd, 2025, at the Taj West End in Bengaluru. India has consistently maintained its position as the top source market for Sri Lanka, contributing to 20% of total tourist arrivals. From January to 31st May 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed 1,029,803 tourists, of which 204,060 were from India. This upward trend reflects the growing demand and connectivity between the two countries. Sri Lanka's tourism earnings have already crossed USD 1.54 billion in the first six months of 2025. Travel between the two nations remains seamless, with Sri Lankan Airlines operating 90 flights weekly connecting Sri Lanka with nine Indian cities. Additionally, IndiGo and Air India operate daily flights to both Hyderabad and Bangalore, making travel access convenient and quick for business and leisure travellers. These upcoming roadshows will showcase Sri Lanka's varied MICE and tourism offerings, reinforcing that the destination is fully open and ready for leisure, business, and corporate travel. The events are tailored to engage MICE tour operators, media, influencers, corporate leaders, trade associations, and prominent stakeholders from the Indian travel industry. A 20-member delegation consisting of leading tour operators and hoteliers from Sri Lanka will lead the initiative, presenting the country's diverse attractions and renowned hospitality. The roadshows are structured to encourage meaningful B2B (Business-to-Business) engagements and open dialogue. Evening networking sessions will further strengthen these connections in a more relaxed setting. A press conference in both cities will help ensure strong media coverage and visibility for Sri Lanka as a top travel destination. A performance by a Sri Lankan cultural troupe will offer a cultural highlight, bringing attention to the country's rich heritage. Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, stated, 'Sri Lanka is an excellent MICE destination due to its proximity and strong connectivity, making it a cost-effective and appealing option for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. These roadshows will showcase Sri Lanka's growth and help strengthen ties with India.'
