Sri Lanka is reopening to travellers following severe disruption caused by Cyclonic Storm Ditwah.
The tropical cyclone brought intense rainfall, flooding and landslides across large parts of the country.
Tragically, the storm claimed more than 600 lives and caused damage exceeding US$1.6 billion. It marked Sri Lanka’s deadliest disaster since the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Recovery Underway
Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka is steadily returning to normal.
Authorities have restored utilities, transport links and essential public services nationwide.
Meanwhile, communities are resuming daily life and rebuilding with determination. Tourist attractions, hotels and resorts are reopening, signalling readiness to welcome visitors again.
Cruise and Yacht Traffic Returns
Importantly, cruise ships and yachts are once again calling at Sri Lankan ports.
This revival highlights growing confidence in the country’s recovery.
This resilience was shown clearly with back-to-back cruise arrivals in Colombo and Hambantota. Celebrity Millennium visited both ports during a regional voyage from Mumbai to Singapore. Just days later, Mein Schiff 06 arrived in Colombo with more than 2,300 passengers. Over 1,600 guests joined island excursions and praised Sri Lanka’s hospitality.
Together, these calls deliver a clear message to global travellers.
Sri Lanka is safe, open and ready to host international visitors.
Handling two major cruise ships in one week demonstrated strong tourism infrastructure.
It also reinforced confidence in the country’s ability to manage large-scale travel.
Tourism Campaign Launched
Sri Lanka Tourism has launched a nationwide recovery and reassurance campaign. The initiative highlights hotel resilience and promotes the country’s reopening message.
Hotels and tour operators now share real-time updates and guest experiences online. This outreach reaches global audiences and strengthens trust among international partners.
The campaign places special focus on the southern coast and other unaffected regions.
These areas are promoted as vibrant, safe destinations for immediate travel.
Sri Lanka Tourism acknowledges misleading international coverage created recent challenges. However, officials view recovery as an opportunity to rebuild stronger.
By promoting resilient communities, Sri Lanka aims to restore global tourism confidence.