Sri Lanka tourism goes smart with ‘LilyLanka’ debut

Tourism and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath launches the app while LilyLanka CEO Miyuni Rajapaksa looks on

PIC BY PRADEEP PATHIRANA

By Shabiya Ali Ahlam

Sri Lanka is presented with a fresh opportunity to rewrite the way the world explores its shores with the launch of LilyLanka, the country’s first fully-integrated digital travel platform. 

Designed to put the traveller in control while keeping the tourism revenue local, the platform unites bookings, guides, transport and essential services under one seamless ecosystem, marking a milestone in both technology and tourism for the island. “LilyLanka is envisioned as Sri Lanka’s national digital tourism platform, bringing together hotel bookings, attractions, transport and verified tourism services into one seamless ecosystem,” said LilyLanka CEO Miyuni Rajapaksa addressing the launch in Colombo this week.

The event was graced by the senior officials of the Tourism Ministry, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and tourism industry.

“We believe in quality over quantity for tourism, promoting authentic Sri Lankan experiences and empowering the next generation to lead and innovate.”

The platform allows the visitors to explore destinations, choose accommodation, connect with the licensed guides, arrange transport and build itineraries in one place. 

It integrates essential services such as pre-arrival eSIM connectivity through Dialog Axiata, travel insurance via People’s Insurance and a location-enabled SOS feature, offering convenience, safety and peace of mind from touchdown to departure.

According to Tourism and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath, the initiative aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader push towards a digital economy and that LilyLanka is “timely and strategic”. 

“Global tourism is increasingly shaped by digital platforms. LilyLanka is a timely initiative aligned with Sri Lanka’s push towards a digital economy and smart tourism, helping retain a greater share of tourism revenue within the country,” he said.

Tourism remains a vital source of foreign exchange but much of the revenue often leaks out through international intermediaries. 

SLTDA Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam noted the significance of a local solution. According to him, one of the biggest problems in tourism at present is leakage of tourist expenditure. 

“By supporting locally developed digital solutions like this app, we can retain more income in the country, provide value-added services and build a competitive platform for Sri Lanka’s tourism,” he said.

Beyond technology, LilyLanka aims to reflects Sri Lanka’s identity. Inspired by the Blue Water Lily, the island’s national flower, it embodies resilience, beauty and serenity, offering a modern gateway for travellers while celebrating local culture and talent. 

By integrating service providers across the island, the platform aims to boost the local businesses and strengthen Sri Lanka’s tourism economy, setting a benchmark for responsible, homegrown digital innovation in travel.