Sri Lanka Convention Bureau Hosts MICE Roadshows Across Key Indian Cities

Sri Lanka MICE Promotions Highlight Business Travel Opportunities in Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai

The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, organised a series of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) roadshows and networking sessions in Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai during the final week of May 2026.

The initiative aimed to promote Sri Lanka as a MICE destination in the Indian market and strengthen industry engagement between the two countries. India remains one of Sri Lanka’s key source markets for both leisure and business travel.

The first roadshow took place on 25 May at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, followed by an event at ITC Sonar Kolkata on 27 May. The final roadshow was held on 29 May at Pullman Chennai Anna Salai. The events brought together MICE specialists, wedding planners, professional conference organisers and corporate buyers from across the three cities.

According to figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Sri Lanka welcomed 531,511 visitors from India in 2025, accounting for 22 per cent of the country’s total tourist arrivals. Tourism earnings exceeded USD 3.2 billion during the same year.

MICE and business tourism contribute approximately 10 per cent of Sri Lanka’s overall tourist arrivals and continue to play an important role in the country’s tourism sector.

From January to the end of May 2026, Sri Lanka recorded 1,010,807 tourist arrivals, including 245,981 visitors from India. The figures reflect continued travel demand and the close tourism relationship between the neighbouring countries.

Air connectivity between Sri Lanka and India remains extensive. SriLankan Airlines currently operates 90 weekly flights connecting Sri Lanka with nine Indian cities. IndiGo and Air India also operate daily services to Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai, providing convenient travel options for both business and leisure travellers.

The roadshows highlighted Sri Lanka’s MICE facilities, tourism experiences, accommodation options and event infrastructure. The programme was designed to engage tour operators, corporate travel planners, trade associations, media representatives, influencers and other tourism stakeholders from India.

A delegation of 24 Sri Lankan tourism partners, including tour operators and hotel representatives, participated in the events. The programme focused on showcasing the country’s meeting venues, hospitality sector and business travel offerings while encouraging industry collaboration.

The roadshows also included dedicated B2B sessions, enabling direct interaction between Sri Lankan suppliers and Indian travel professionals. Evening networking events provided additional opportunities for discussion and relationship-building. Delegates also experienced a cultural performance by a Sri Lankan troupe, offering an introduction to the country’s heritage and traditions.

Speaking during the roadshows, Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, said Sri Lanka’s proximity to India and strong air connectivity make it a practical choice for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. He added that the initiative would support stronger tourism and business connections between the two countries.

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