By Pasan Wijewardana, Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing for Sun Siyam Pasikudah and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
Globally, the tourism industry is shifting towards more personalized, experiential, and sustainable travel. Post-pandemic, travelers are seeking unique experiences that connect them with nature, culture, and wellness. Technology is also playing a key role in reshaping the guest experience, from contactless check-ins to virtual tours. Destinations that can offer safety, flexibility, and authenticity will continue to stand out in this evolving landscape.
Diversity as a crucial driver
Sri Lanka has the potential to thrive by capitalizing on its diversity; from heritage sites to nature reserves and beautiful coastlines. To compete regionally and globally, it’s essential to further develop the tourism infrastructure, enhance marketing strategies, and promote sustainable tourism. Collaborating with neighboring markets, like the Maldives, to offer combined travel packages can also boost our appeal. Above all, positioning Sri Lanka as a safe and unique destination will be key to future success.
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has shown remarkable resilience despite numerous challenges. The country is slowly recovering from recent setbacks, and there is a noticeable push toward attracting diverse markets, including experiential travelers, eco-tourists, and wellness seekers. The government’s strategic efforts, coupled with private sector innovation, are helping to create a more dynamic tourism offering. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of infrastructure and marketing to further elevate the country’s profile on the global stage.
Untapped potential in the East
The Eastern region of Sri Lanka has immense untapped potential. Over the past few years, there has been significant progress in developing its tourism infrastructure, but it still retains a relatively low profile compared to other regions like the South or the Hill Country. The East offers beautiful, unspoiled beaches, historical sites, and rich cultural diversity. With increased awareness and investment, this region can become a leading destination for both local and international travelers.
The East is not just as a seasonal destination but as a year-round option. While it has traditionally been promoted for a short season, the region offers much more beyond that. Its pristine beaches, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage make it suitable for year-round promotion, particularly when combined with round trips to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle as a beach extension. By enhancing its appeal beyond the peak season, the East can play a significant role in diversifying the country’s overall tourism offering.
Lessons from the Maldives and collaboration
The Maldives has become synonymous with luxury tourism, largely due to its ability to create highly personalized, niche experiences. From private overwater villas and bespoke wellness retreats to underwater dining and curated adventures, the Maldives excels at offering exclusivity and privacy, which are key drivers for the high-end market.
Sri Lanka, while rich in culture and diversity, can shift its direction by further tapping into these luxury segments while also emphasizing its unique offerings; such as its heritage, wildlife, and wellness potential. By developing high-end experiences that integrate wellness, eco-tourism, and cultural immersion, Sri Lanka can appeal to discerning travelers who seek more than just a beach getaway.
Moreover, Sri Lanka has an advantage as a multi-faceted destination with both land and sea adventures, which could be combined with the Maldives to offer multi-destination packages. A combined itinerary could give travelers the best of both worlds; a cultural and adventure-packed experience in Sri Lanka paired with the serene luxury of the Maldives. This could create a competitive edge for the region, attracting long-haul travelers looking for a holistic travel experience.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah’s role
Sun Siyam Pasikudah is uniquely positioned to offer guests a tranquil, immersive experience in one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful coastal regions. Our property combines luxury with local culture, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy pristine beaches, water sports, and explore the lesser-known treasures of the Eastern region including the local culture. The blend of modern amenities with traditional Sri Lankan warmth is something that sets us apart.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah plays a pivotal role in promoting the Eastern region as a tourist destination. Not only do we contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting local businesses, but we also focus on sustainable tourism practices that help preserve the environment. As more tourists discover the beauty of this region, we hope to see it thrive further, becoming a key player in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.
My aspirations for Sri Lanka and the Maldives
I’ve been fortunate to have had a diverse career in the hospitality industry, working across various regions and properties. Currently, I serve as the Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing for Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives. Prior to this, I worked at Shangri-La Muscat, where I had the privilege of collaborating closely with key partners in the Middle East. My passion lies in creating memorable guest experiences and fostering meaningful partnerships that help grow tourism in both established and emerging markets.
As a Cluster Director for Sun Siyam, my aspiration is to showcase the best of Sri Lanka and the Maldives to the world, driving growth in these regions. I aim to contribute to sustainable tourism practices while offering world-class experiences that put these destinations on the map. By fostering partnerships and promoting the unique aspects of our properties, I hope to be part of the larger effort to elevate Sri Lanka’s tourism industry to its full potential.
