Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is pushing ahead with a rapid recovery following severe flooding triggered by Cyclone Ditwah, with more than 90 per cent of major sites now back open to visitors. The update comes as many Australian agents – including those who joined Intrepid’s recent Mega Famils – seek clarity on the current situation on the ground.
Intrepid’s Country general manager for Sri Lanka, Poornaka Delpachitra, has provided fresh insights into safety, traveller experience and the nation’s resilience in the weeks since the cyclone. Here’s what he shared.
How would you describe the current situation on the ground in Sri Lanka for travellers?
It is safe to travel, and the country is coming back to normal quite fast. More than 90 per cent of our main tourist places and sites, including the national parks. are open for business. Relief efforts are still ongoing for everyone who was affected, but there’s been considerable progress. A lot of the damaged infrastructure is already being restored. Yes, the first week after the cyclone and the immediate aftermath was quite grim, but as always, Sri Lanka’s resilient mode kicked in. The entire nation came together, and that spirit has made a huge difference.
What are you hearing from our local teams and leaders about traveller experience right now?
Overall, customers on the ground are giving very positive feedback. Many of them appreciate and understand how the country is bouncing back, and they’re feeling the warmth shown by everyone. Our tour leaders especially have been amazing. They managed some tricky situations at the height of it, making sure everyone was safe while still giving them an enjoyable experience.
What makes Sri Lanka such a special destination for Intrepid travellers?
Sri Lanka is like an all-in-one capsule. Travellers can experience culture, history, landscapes, beaches and wildlife, all in a short timeframe and without long distances. And of course, the variety of local food cuisine we have is something everyone talks about. Finally, our people. Sri Lankans are hospitable by nature, and we make everyone feel welcomed as our own.
What do you wish more agents understood about travelling to Sri Lanka at the moment?
The country is safe to travel and recovery efforts are at full speed. Travel times in the hill areas may be a bit more than usual especially between Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella or Bandarawela because of some road works. The only main experience that travellers will miss for a little while is the scenic train ride through Tea Country, as the train tracks were severely damaged. But everything else is open.
Are there any stories of resilience, community, connection that stand out from the past couple of weeks?
Yes, quite a few, but one that stands out was a group stuck in Nuwara Eliya for five days due to road closures after the heavy rain. They were stranded on the road until a local family gave them shelter until the rain subsided. During that time, the same customers joined the local clean-up efforts along with our Tour Leader and the community in Nuwara Eliya city. It was a great example of community and connection coming together during a tough moment.
(Photos attached!)
What would you say to a traveller who’s hesitant to recommend Sri Lanka right now?
Sri Lanka is a very resilient nation, and we have always bounced back. In the last few years we’ve gone through the Easter bombings, COVID and the economic crisis and this challenge too shall pass. It’s not new for us to face hardship, but this time it has come in a different form. One of the best ways you can support the country is by travelling. Many local communities and small businesses rely on tourism. There might be some disruptions in certain locations, but because of the diversity the country has to offer, there will always be similar alternatives available.
And no matter the challenge or catastrophe, you will always see our people with a smile and ready to welcome visitors.
What’s one unforgettable moment or place you think every traveller should experience in Sri Lanka?
Climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress for the sunrise – nothing like it!
