Sri Lanka is planning to reopen its tourism sector to overseas travelers from August 1, 2020 by allowing only small groups of inbound visitors to begin with.

Mr. Kimali Fernando, the Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, said that small groups with limited number of visitors from other countries would be allowed to visit Sri Lanka from starting of August. Stay in approved five star hotels that have put strict safety measures of COVID-19 in place will also be allowed. He also confirmed that individual travelers will not be allowed to enter into Sri Lanka till further notice.

Mr. S. Hettiarachchi, Sri Lanka’s Tourism Ministry Secretary, had earlier informed that all tourists with a COVID-19 free certificate issued either by their governments or a reputed agency would be allowed to enter into the country and they will also be screened for Coronavirus upon arrival at the airport.

The move of reopening tourism sector for foreigners came after the discussion on the proposals at a meeting in May which was attended by President Mr. Rajapaksa and representatives of the Tourism Industry.

Bandaranaike International Airport and Mattala International Airport would also partially reopen, subject to government approvals for the plan. COVID-19 testing facilities would be set up at the airports and private hospitals are looking forward to provide assistance to tourists as part of the plans.

Popular sites in the country such as the Yala national park, Udawalawe, Arugam Bay, Trincomalee and selected beach areas would also be expected to reopen for foreign tourists, as per plans.

In regards to COVID-19 cases, the country has reported a total number of 1,683 confirmed cases and 11 deaths. However, 823 patients have completely recovered from the virus, till date.