When it comes to weddings, Indian couples are increasingly looking beyond the familiar, searching for destinations that amalgamate beauty, accessibility, and a sense of exclusivity. Sri Lanka is now stepping confidently into that space, positioning itself as the next big address for destination weddings.
In a bid to woo Indian couples, Sri Lanka Tourism recently organised a series of luxury wedding showcases across major Indian cities. These gatherings brought together the island’s leading hotels, resorts, heritage venues, and service providers with top Indian wedding planners and travel agents. The idea was simple: to show how an island just across the water can deliver weddings that are both traditional in spirit and contemporary in execution.
Buddhika Hewawasam, chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, explained the appeal at a press conference held recently in New Delhi. “From pristine beaches and tea gardens to colonial mansions and heritage forts, Sri Lanka has everything needed to create weddings that are truly unforgettable.”
For Indian families, the attraction lies not just in the variety of venues but also in the convenience. With short flights from major Indian cities and hassle-free visas, Sri Lanka is a natural choice for large gatherings. The country’s hospitality industry is also adept at handling Indian wedding traditions, ensuring everything from rituals to catering is seamlessly executed.
While couples can opt for grand celebrations in luxury resorts or historic forts, there’s also room for intimate boutique weddings by the sea or in lush garden settings. The balance between luxury and affordability makes Sri Lanka especially appealing at a time when many young couples are reimagining what a wedding should look like.
In an exclusive interview to Outlook Traveller, chairman Buddhika Hewawasam outlined Sri Lanka’s strategy to attract more destination wedding couples to the island nation.
“Last year we doubled our overall numbers from the previous year, and the segment of wedding couples alone grew by 20–25 per cent,” said Hewawasam.
He explained that Sri Lanka is focusing on promotions in Tier-1 Indian cities with strong air connectivity and an established following, particularly Delhi and Mumbai. The Gujarat market, with its interest in large and luxurious weddings, has also been targeted through promotions in Ahmedabad. Campaigns are now extending to South India, where connectivity to Sri Lanka is especially strong.
“This is just the first phase of our wedding promotion strategy. We will also expand to other major cities with direct flights, followed by Tier-2 cities,” he added.
Sri Lanka is aiming to double wedding tourism numbers year on year. “We can easily cater to another 200–300 weddings annually. If we manage even one wedding a day, our infrastructure is capable of handling it,” he said.
Hewawasam confirmed that the national carrier plays a central role. “SriLankan Airlines already has strong scheduled connectivity to most major Indian cities—multiple flights from Mumbai and Delhi, and a significant number from South India as well. They also offer chartering facilities. If there are 300–400 guests, the airline can provide a dedicated charter, making the experience more convenient and focused.”
Speaking about his favourite Sri Lankan wedding destination, Hewawasam said, “For me, it’s the Eastern Province, especially Passikuda. The beaches there are pristine, with white sand and a peaceful, elegant atmosphere. Many couples from central Indian cities look for exclusive beach destinations, and Passikuda is ideal,” he shared.
Hewawasam pointed to ongoing efforts to keep beaches sustainable and protected from litter and damage. “Our major beaches are working towards Blue Flag certification, an international standard for sustainable and clean beaches. One by one, we are achieving this milestone.”
He added that communities play a central role. Fishing villages and local residents are directly engaged in the initiative. “We make it a point to involve the local community—whether it’s florists providing flowers for décor, farmers supplying fresh produce, fishermen bringing in the day’s catch, or performers showcasing traditional dances. Local participation is at the heart of every celebration.”
The government has also launched a national programme called Clean Sri Lanka, under the patronage of the President, where multiple stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, the military, and local communities, work together to maintain cleanliness and sustainability.
“You will witness the results when you visit Sri Lanka,” he said with a smile.
For couples dreaming of a beachside ceremony at sunset, a regal celebration in a colonial mansion, or a quiet garden wedding in the hills, Sri Lanka promises a canvas as diverse as it is breathtaking. More than just a venue, it is an invitation to begin a new chapter in a place where romance feels right at home.
1. Why is Sri Lanka becoming popular for Indian destination weddings?
Sri Lanka offers pristine beaches, colonial heritage venues, luxury resorts, and easy connectivity from Indian cities, making it an affordable yet exotic wedding destination.
2. What are the best wedding venues in Sri Lanka for Indian couples?
Popular venues include beach resorts in Pasikuda, Galle Fort heritage sites, colonial mansions in Colombo, tea garden estates, and luxury hotels across the island.
3. How much does a destination wedding in Sri Lanka cost for Indian couples?
Costs vary depending on the venue and guest list. On average, Sri Lanka weddings are more affordable than Europe or the Maldives, with packages starting from mid-range to ultra-luxury.
4. Do Sri Lankan resorts cater to Indian wedding traditions?
Yes, most hotels and resorts are well-equipped to host traditional Indian weddings, including customs, rituals, catering, and décor tailored for Indian families.
5. Is Sri Lanka easily accessible for Indian wedding guests?
Sri Lanka is just a short flight away, with direct connections from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and other cities, plus hassle-free visa-on-arrival facilities.
