In a major boost to its tourism recovery, Sri Lanka has ranked number 9 on BBC Travel’s first-ever list of “The 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025”, positioning it as a destination of choice for international travelers. The placement is a testament to the island nation’s resilience, multi-faceted appeal, and focus on sustainable tourism in the face of its post-pandemic recovery.
A Destination of Resilience and Beauty
The BBC travel guide, compiled in consultation with experts on sustainable tourism like the United Nations World Tourism Organization, praises Sri Lanka as having “misty hill top tea plantations, wandering wild elephants, ancient temples, and rolling surf.” Despite economic downturns, such as a 2022 bankruptcy filing, the country has recovered under new leadership, using tourism as a basis for revitalization.
Tourism on the UP
Sri Lanka aims to attract 3 million tourists in 2025, and preliminary numbers report strong arrivals from India , Russia, and the UK. The BBC ranking will also further support this momentum.
BBC quote: “Sri Lanka ticks lots of boxes offering luxury, authenticity, and sustainability at a fraction of the cost of comparable destinations” .
For travelers in search of a destination that has natural wonders, heritage treasures, and life-enriching experiences, Sri Lanka’s top-10 ranking is an irresistible invitation. Plan your visit to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean today!