Why Sri Lanka’s tourism is thriving amid crises while Keralam struggles to regain lost ground despite its advantages

The Galle Dutch Fort Lighthouse surrounded by coconut trees in Sri Lanka, a popular travel spot in the country.

Foreign tourist arrivals in Keralam continue to stagnate, in sharp contrast to Sri Lanka, despite the two destinations offering comparable tourism experiences and products. Even amid adverse global conditions, including the West Asian conflict, Colombo has managed to surpass its pre-COVID foreign tourist arrival figures. Keralam, meanwhile, has struggled to regain momentum, achieving only around 70% of its pre-pandemic arrivals even in 2026, despite offering a more diverse and arguably superior range of tourism products and experience.

Keralam and Sri Lanka share a striking tropical appeal, characterised by sprawling coconut groves, spice-scented landscapes, mist-covered tea plantations and a rich Indian Ocean maritime heritage. However, Keralam enjoys several natural advantages, with its picturesque backwaters nestled between the Arabian Sea to the west and the formidable Western Ghats to the east. The State is also regarded as the cradle of authentic wellness tourism in India, with its rejuvenating Ayurveda therapies.