Warm Greetings on World Tourism Day 2026

On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026, We extend our warmest greetings and best wishes to all tourism stakeholders, visitors, entrepreneurs, hoteliers, guides, communities, public institutions and partners who contribute to the growth and development of tourism in Sri Lanka.

This year’s global theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” reminds us that the future of tourism is increasingly shaped by technology, digital connectivity and innovation. 

In this spirit, the Department of Trade, Commerce and Tourism of the Central Province is taking this year’s celebration as an opportunity to digitally showcase the remarkable beauty, heritage and tourism potential of our Central Highlands. The main provincial celebration, being held in Norwood, Nuwara Eliya, on 29 and 30 September, provides an important platform to bring greater digital visibility to the tranquil landscapes, mist-covered mountains, tea estates, waterfalls, communities and unique cultural experiences of the hill country.

The Central Province, encompassing Kandy, Matale and Nuwara Eliya, possesses an exceptional combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage and community-based tourism experiences. Our responsibility is not only to welcome visitors, but also to ensure that these precious resources are presented to the world responsibly, sustainably and innovatively. 

It is equally encouraging to see World Tourism Day being celebrated through a range of parallel programmes across the Province. From the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy, and the beautiful Kandy Lake Round, to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, and tourism initiatives in Matale and Naula, these celebrations demonstrate the strength of collaboration among public institutions, the tourism industry, religious and cultural institutions, hoteliers, community organisations and many other stakeholders.

The special World Tourism Day programme at the Sri Dalada Maligawa on 27 September further highlights Kandy’s importance as a cultural and spiritual destination for visitors from around the world. 

As we embrace digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence, let us ensure that technology remains a means of connecting people with places, cultures and experiences. Let us use digital platforms to tell the stories of our destinations, empower our local entrepreneurs, promote lesser-known attractions, improve visitor experiences and create new opportunities for the communities that depend on tourism.

Above all, let us remember that the greatest strength of tourism lies not only in our mountains, forests, heritage sites and landscapes, but in the warmth of our people and the authenticity of our culture.

May World Tourism Day 2026 inspire stronger partnerships, greater innovation and responsible tourism development throughout the Central Province and Sri Lanka.

We wish everyone a very happy, successful and meaningful World Tourism Day 2026.

May we proudly showcase the beauty of our Central Highlands to Sri Lanka and to the world — digitally, sustainably and with a human touch.