Ayurveda and Lankan cuisine are big attractions for growing numbers of Indian visitors!

For Indian travellers, Sri Lanka has become one of the most attractive short-haul international destinations in Asia. 

And a major pull is wellness tourism of the kind offered by Terrace Green Hotel’s Spa Secret, with its holistic Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and stress-recovery therapies. 

At the same time, our paradise island’s beachside hospitality and nature-based relaxation are also big attractions.

As is our food. For example, TGH’s Salt restaurant head chef explains why we put katta sambol on our fine-dining menu alongside rice and curry—and why our Indian guests love it!

“They are not really looking for generic so-called ‘international cuisine’”, he says. “They want something that speaks their food language with an authentic local accent.” 

(Katta sambol is a deliciously fiery Sri Lankan condiment made from freshly ground red onions, chili pepper, lime juice, and cured tuna flakes.)

Dominant market

India is a dominant tourism market right now, and Indian travelers have an established preference for experiences combined with cultural discovery. 

So as well as food, wellness and familiarity, Sri Lanka’s appeal is straightforward: close proximity, relatively affordable luxury, great beaches, tropical scenery, and a host of memorable experiences.

But one of our biggest draws is convenience. Direct flights from cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru and Delhi make Sri Lanka an easy getaway for families, honeymooners, wellness travellers, and business visitors alike. 

Thus for many Indians, Sri Lanka offers an international holiday adventure without the long-haul cost and travel time of far-flung destinations.

Religion

Cultural and religious tourism also play a role. Pilgrims visit sacred sites connected to the island’s long Buddhist heritage, including Anuradhapura and Kandy’s Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. 

Meanwhile, Ramayana-related tourism has also grown steadily, with Indian visitors exploring locations associated with this ancient Hindu epic.

It is the story of how King Rama rescues his wife, Sita, who was abducted by demon-king Ravana and brought to his stronghold here in Sri Lanka. Today, this heritage includes more than 50 island locations tied to the epic’s narrative.

Thus for tourists today, Sri Lanka offers something much valued by modern travellers: not only history and mystery, but variety—which, as the English poet William Cowper once so memorably said, “is the very spice of life that gives it all its flavour!”