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Sri Lanka Scraps Visa Charges, Reinstates On-line System to Increase its Tourism Sector
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Sri Lanka is taking daring steps to rejuvenate its struggling tourism business by reintroducing its on-line visa utility platform, following the suspension of a controversial outsourcing take care of VFS International, an India-based consortium. This resolution, introduced by Sri Lanka’s newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, is a part of a broader plan to streamline vacationer entry and stimulate the nation’s economic system.
The outsourcing settlement, beforehand halted on account of transparency issues, was underneath scrutiny for doubtlessly producing as much as $2.75 billion over 16 years. In response, Sri Lanka’s Supreme Courtroom intervened, ordering a return to the unique on-line visa platform. Vacationers can now apply for visas with out the beforehand imposed $25 payment, a transfer warmly welcomed by business consultants.
Along with reintroducing the net visa system, the federal government has launched a visa-free initiative for residents of 35 nations, together with India, set to take impact on October 1. The six-month initiative is designed to extend the variety of vacationers visiting the island nation. The 35 nations included within the proposal are Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nepal, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the UK, and america.
Tourism Ministry adviser Harin Fernando emphasised that these efforts purpose to showcase Sri Lanka’s gorgeous landscapes, wealthy cultural heritage, and pristine seashores to extra world vacationers.
Sri Lanka has made spectacular strides in attracting worldwide vacationers, welcoming 1,487,303 guests in 2023, attaining a outstanding development charge of 106.6%. In August 2024 alone, the nation welcomed 164,609 vacationers, in comparison with 136,405 in August 2023, additional demonstrating its constructive momentum.
With these reforms, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a tourist-friendly vacation spot, dedicated to creating journey extra accessible and interesting to worldwide guests, whereas addressing earlier issues across the visa utility course of.
Sri Lanka: An Island of Timeless Magnificence and Journey
Sri Lanka, typically referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a fascinating island nation full of wealthy historical past, gorgeous landscapes, and vibrant tradition. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, a seaside lover, or an journey seeker, Sri Lanka has one thing for everybody. This information presents a glimpse into a number of the must-visit cities and sights that can make your journey unforgettable.
Colombo: The Gateway to Sri Lanka
Colombo, the bustling capital, is usually the primary cease for vacationers arriving in Sri Lanka. A vibrant metropolis the place fashionable meets custom, Colombo presents a mixture of colonial-era buildings, luxurious procuring, and buzzing markets.
Should-Go to Spots:
Galle Face Inexperienced: A preferred promenade alongside the Indian Ocean, good for a sundown stroll.
Pettah Market: Colombo’s busy bazaar, the place you should buy something from recent produce to distinctive souvenirs.
Nationwide Museum: Dive into Sri Lanka’s historical past with a formidable assortment of artifacts relationship again centuries.
Insider Tip: Colombo is a good place to pattern Sri Lankan road meals—attempt hoppers, kottu, and sambol from the native stalls.
Kandy: The Cultural Coronary heart
Nestled amongst lush hills, Kandy is legendary for its wealthy tradition and gorgeous landscapes. Town is residence to one of many nation’s most revered websites, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which homes a tooth of the Buddha.
Should-Go to Spots:
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: A UNESCO World Heritage web site, this temple is probably the most sacred Buddhist web site in Sri Lanka.
Kandy Lake: A peaceable spot to take a ship journey or just stroll round for stunning views of town.
Royal Botanical Gardens: Stroll via gorgeous gardens full of unique natural world.
Insider Tip: For those who go to in July or August, don’t miss the Kandy Esala Perahera, a spectacular cultural procession that includes drummers, dancers, and ornately dressed elephants.
Galle: Colonial Appeal by the Sea
Galle, a phenomenal coastal metropolis within the south, is understood for its well-preserved Dutch colonial structure. The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage web site, is town’s spotlight, providing a glimpse into its previous as a key port underneath Portuguese and Dutch rule.
Should-Go to Spots:
Galle Fort: Wander via cobblestone streets full of charming boutiques, cafes, and colonial buildings.
Galle Lighthouse: Soak up gorgeous views of the coast from this historic landmark.
Unawatuna Seashore: Only a quick drive from Galle, this seaside is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Insider Tip: Head to Fort Bazaar for a mixture of native and world delicacies in a superbly restored resort throughout the fort.
Sigiriya: The Historic Rock Fortress
For those who’re a historical past or journey fanatic, Sigiriya is an absolute should. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also called Lion Rock, is certainly one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage web site. The fortress, perched atop an enormous rock, presents breathtaking panoramic views and a deep dive into the nation’s historical historical past.
Should-Go to Spots:
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb the rock to discover historical frescoes, water gardens, and ruins of a royal palace.
Pidurangala Rock: For a much less crowded and equally gorgeous viewpoint, hike Pidurangala Rock at dawn or sundown.
Insider Tip: Begin your Sigiriya hike early within the morning to keep away from the noon warmth and revel in probably the most spectacular views.
Ella: A Hill Nation Retreat
A small city with huge pure magnificence, Ella is about in Sri Lanka’s central highlands and presents picturesque landscapes, tea plantations, and mountain climbing trails. It’s the proper vacation spot for these trying to calm down or embark on out of doors adventures.
Should-Go to Spots:
9 Arches Bridge: One among Sri Lanka’s most photographed spots, this railway bridge set towards lush greenery is an architectural marvel.
Ella Rock: A difficult hike however the views on the prime make it price each step.
Little Adam’s Peak: A comparatively simple hike with panoramic views of the encircling valleys and tea estates.
Insider Tip: Trip the practice from Kandy to Ella—it’s thought of one of the crucial stunning practice journeys on the earth, providing spectacular views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains.
Jaffna: The Northern Gem
For a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s northern tradition, head to Jaffna. This metropolis, wealthy in Tamil tradition, presents distinctive temples, gorgeous seashores, and a distinct culinary expertise in comparison with the remainder of the island.
Should-Go to Spots:
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple: A vibrant Hindu temple that stands on the coronary heart of Jaffna’s cultural life.
Jaffna Fort: A powerful fort with a wealthy historical past and views over the lagoon.
Casuarina Seashore: A serene spot good for a quiet day by the ocean.
Insider Tip: Strive Jaffna’s distinct delicacies, particularly its fiery crab curry—a neighborhood favourite.
