A Brushstroke of Sri Lanka’s Culture at OTM 2025
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) kicked off its promotional activities for 2025 with a remarkable achievement at the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM). Recognized as the most innovative Tourism Board promotion, Sri Lanka’s participation highlighted the island’s rich culture and unique travel offerings.
OTM 2025 in Mumbai
Held from 30th January to 1st February 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India, OTM is India’s largest and most prestigious travel trade show. Sri Lanka’s pavilion, the largest among international exhibitors at 360 sqm, stood out for its vibrant presentation. The Karunadasa Olaboduwawa Dance Troupe mesmerized attendees with traditional performances, bringing Sri Lanka’s culture to life.
Strengthening Ties with India
Sri Lanka’s participation in OTM was part of a broader effort to strengthen ties with India, Sri Lanka’s top source market for tourism. The SLTPB delegation, comprising 72 leading travel companies, showcased Sri Lanka’s tourism potential. With India being the largest contributor to Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals, events like OTM provide valuable opportunities for deeper engagement.
Before OTM: Global Village and Cultural Events
Before OTM, Sri Lanka participated in the Global Village – Global Exchange & Trade Exhibition at the Surat International Exhibition & Convention Centre from 25th to 27th January 2025. This was followed by the Sri Lanka & NFDC Film Festival in Mumbai (1st-5th February), where cultural exchanges continued to strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a key tourism and film destination.
The South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE)
From 19th to 21st February 2025, Sri Lanka took part in the SATTE 2025 in New Delhi, where 70 Sri Lankan companies further showcased the country’s tourism potential. The participation was further enhanced by performances from the Channa–Upuli Performing Arts Foundation, attracting large crowds and showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural depth.
Building Relationships Through Networking
An interactive session between Sri Lankan hoteliers and wedding planners was held in Mumbai on 31st January 2025, further expanding Sri Lanka’s network in India. Sri Lanka also participated in the Cine Locales Event (30th January 2025), promoting the island’s suitability for film shoots and film tourism.
A Successful Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s participation in these events concluded successfully, fostering new business prospects and encouraging more Indian tourists to explore Sri Lanka. Between 1st January and 9th March 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed 89,626 Indian tourists, reaffirming its place among the top destinations for Indian travelers.
