Why Fewer Russian Tourists Are Visiting Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has seen a 7.6 percent drop in Russian tourist arrivals in 2025, a decline driven by natural disasters, the absence of direct flights, and stiff competition from other Asian destinations, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR). Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Employment Abroad and Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe told RIA Novosti that the tourism sector is struggling globally, but Sri Lanka faced an additional blow when Tropical Cyclone Ditwa hit on November 28, 2025. The cyclone triggered widespread flooding and landslides, causing an estimated $4.1 billion in direct damage to buildings, agriculture, and infrastructure—roughly 4 percent of the country’s GDP. Ranasinghe noted that while the cyclone hurt the industry, the biggest issue for Russian travelers was the lack of air connectivity. Aeroflot suspended its summer operations to Sri Lanka due to a limited aircraft fleet, leaving tourists with fewer options. At the same time, other Asian nations are aggressively courting Russian visitors, offering competitive prices and easier routes. The combination of these factors has made Sri Lanka a tougher sell for Russian tourists, who once flocked to its beaches and tea plantations. The government is now working to rebuild the island’s image and restore flight links, but recovery will take time.