The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has launched its first-ever dedicated destination wedding promotion for the Indian market, opening a new chapter in tourism ties between the two countries.

The campaign is being introduced through luxury multi-city wedding showcases in India, in partnership with LINKIN REPS, positioning Sri Lanka as a premier wedding destination.

According to Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, Sri Lanka has seen a sharp rise in Indian couples choosing the island for their weddings. Last year alone, the country hosted around 30 large-scale Indian weddings with more than 500 guests each, along with 50 smaller celebrations.

He noted that the initiative is part of a broader tourism strategy targeting India, Sri Lanka’s largest tourist market. “We are currently reaching 100,000 Indian visitors and expect to welcome 500,000 travellers from India,” Hewawasam said.

Colombo and the southern coastal belt, including Hikkaduwa and Hambantota, remain popular wedding hotspots, while the East Coast is now being promoted for its pristine beaches and exclusive venues. Traditional favourites such as Kandy, Dambulla, and Negombo continue to attract couples.

There has also been a surge in Indian couples opting for pre-wedding shoots at Sri Lanka’s beaches and heritage sites. Additionally, the country has hosted weddings of the Indian diaspora from the Gulf, with some celebrations drawing up to 750 guests. European couples from Poland, Germany, and the UK are also increasingly choosing Sri Lanka.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s advantages, Hewawasam said the country caters to diverse religious ceremonies and dietary preferences, including Jain, Sattvic, Halal, vegan, and gluten-free menus. The visa-free entry and improved connectivity further boost its appeal.

Many Sri Lankan venues now offer eco-friendly “green weddings” featuring plastic-free décor, local florals, and community-based performances, aligning with growing demand for sustainable celebrations.

Hewawasam added that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has transformed in recent years, with the ability to host both grand weddings and intimate gatherings in line with changing trends among young couples.

India’s MICE market is also a growing focus. Colombo now offers extensive conference facilities and entertainment options, making it an attractive destination for corporate groups. With short flight times and visa-free access, Sri Lanka has strengthened its presence at MICE expos, showcasing over 35 participants.