The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Nepal organized a meeting with Nepali Tour Operators and Travel Agents at the Embassy on 06 November 2019 to promote Sri Lanka Tourism.
Welcoming the Tour Operators and Travel Agents the Ambassador – designate Himalee Arunatilaka highlighted the diversity of Sri Lanka and the country’s unique tourist attractions. She described Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and history, wild life, golden beaches and the natural beauty of the country. The Ambassador - designate said that after an initial set back following the Easter Sunday attacks the country has returned to normalcy and the tourism industry has bounced back.
Highlighting the solid foundation of cultural links between the two countries the Ambassador- designate emphasized that the Ravana Trail in Sri Lanka would be of particular significance to Nepali travelers, majority of whom are Hindu devotees. She also pointed out that Sri Lanka has much to offer to Buddhist pilgrims as well, noting that many Nepali Buddhists travel to Sri Lanka.
The Nepali Tour operators underlined the importance of having direct sir connectivity between Colombo and Kathmandu, as well as more visa facilitation and direct contact with Sri Lankan tour operators in order to promote tourism. They were of the view that Sri Lanka, known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean and Nepal, the land of Mount Everest could benefit mutually in the tourism sector if the industry partners of the two countries worked together.
More than sixteen Travel agents and tour operators participated at the event.