Why Sri Lanka's tourism is booming while Keralam lags behind

Foreign tourist arrivals in Keralam remain stuck at about 70% of pre-pandemic levels in 2026, while Sri Lanka has already surpassed its pre-COVID figures despite global headwinds such as the West Asian conflict. Both offer similar tropical attractions like coconut groves, tea estates and maritime heritage, but Keralam also boasts backwaters and Ayurveda-based wellness tourism.