Indian tourists spend more per day than average visitor to Sri Lanka

Indian tourists are no longer low-spending visitors and now spend more per day than the average tourist arriving in Sri Lanka, according to Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam. Speaking at a media briefing, Hewawasam said the average Indian tourist now spends around US$154 per day, compared to the overall average daily expenditure of US$148 per visitor. “There is a popular perception that Indian tourists generate less income, but that is no longer the case. In fact, Indian tourists spend more per day than the average visitor, and even more than some European tourists,” he said. Hewawasam said Sri Lanka has expanded its tourism promotion campaigns in India beyond its traditional markets, targeting regions such as Gujarat, including cities around Ahmedabad and Rajkot, while continuing promotions in South India, Mumbai and New Delhi. He added that the country is also focusing on attracting high-end travellers through wedding tourism and other premium tourism segments. (Newswire)