Sri Lanka, June 9 -- Sri Lanka's tourism sector reached a record milestone in May, posting its highest-ever arrivals for the month at 145,745 visitors. This figure surpassed the previous May high of 132,919 recorded in 2025 and reflected a 9.65% year-on-year increase.

The strong performance was achieved despite disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which affected long-haul flight routes and pushed up travel costs in several key markets.

Data released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) shows a gradual recovery in monthly arrivals, signalling improved momentum after several months of relatively modest growth.

May's performance lifted total arrivals for the first five months of 2026 to more th...