‘From the Ganges to the Kelani’ Tourism bridge connects India and Sri Lanka

Participants at Tourism Connect- 'Voyage of Friendship and Discovery’ 

Strengthening one of South Asia’s oldest cultural and travel connections, Sri Lanka and India launched a landmark tourism forum ‘From the Ganges to the Kelani: A Voyage of Friendship & Discovery’, in Colombo last week. 

The event, steered by the High Commission of India in Colombo, set the stage for renewed cooperation and fresh strategies to enhance cross-border tourism for the modern traveller. The initiative brings together industry leaders from both nations to explore how analytics, branding and technology can reshape the future of regional travel.

The event drew wide participation from Sri Lanka’s tourism ecosystem, including leading outbound and inbound tour operators, hospitality pioneers and members of the media. It also welcomed key experts from India specializing in branding, analytics and technology, adding depth and regional insight to the discussions.

The event was attended by Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Foreign Employment for Sri Lanka and Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, reflecting the importance both governments place on tourism as a pillar of their bilateral ties. 

The event also featured a keynote address and presentation by Harikishore S., Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. In his remarks, he highlighted India’s vast and diverse tourism landscape, its evolving branding strategy and the growing range of opportunities for Sri Lankan travellers to explore the country, whether through luxury experiences or more affordable, accessible travel options.

He also emphasized that Sri Lanka’s emerging and lesser-known tourism destinations, many of which have the potential to outshine well-known attractions in the region of South Asia, should be actively promoted and placed firmly on the global tourism map to attract greater international arrivals.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of Madhya Pradesh as a key tourism destination for Sri Lankan travellers. A high-level delegation from the state, led by Dr. Ilayaraja T., Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, attended the forum. Madhya Pradesh was showcased for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and the world-renowned Khajuraho Temples, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for Sri Lankan travellers, particularly those drawn to cultural and spiritual experiences. With its scenic landscapes, ancient monuments and deep-rooted spiritual significance, the state offers an appealing alternative for Sri Lankans seeking to explore India beyond the traditional tourist circuits.

Blessed with beautiful landscape, Madhya Pradesh is a paradise for nature lovers. With plenty of places to satisfy their love for landscape and beauty, the state certainly captures a curiosity for wildlife. Home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites namely Sanchi, Bhimebetka and Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh attracts the tourist from across the globe. Fifteen more sites from the same state have now been included in UNESCO tentative list of Heritage sites, making a significant step towards global recognition.

Madhy Pradesh, a large state in central India, retains landmarks from eras throughout India history. Begun in the 10th century, its Hindu and Jain temples at Khajuraho are renowned for their carvings of erotic scenes, most prominently Kandariya Mahadeva, a temple with more than 800 sculptures. The eastern Bandhavgarh and Kanha national parks, noted Bengal tiger sanctuaries, offer guided safaris.

‘Madhya Pradesh offers 11 national Parks, 24 Wildlife Sanctuaries and nine Tiger Reserves for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. It is one of the top attractions in Indian tourism. River Narmadha offers various activities, including whitewater rafting, river cruises, jungle trekking and breath taking water falls’ said Dr. Ilayaraja T., Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation in his 30 minute long presentation on Madhya Pradesh Tourism.    

‘Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India, is not just a destination; it's an experience that brings together a blend of culture, adventure and natural beauty. The state is known for its diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious hotel chains to quaint farm stays, but one of the most unique offerings is its tent cities. These tent cities, set up across various regions, offer a distinct way to reconnect with nature, engage in local culture and rejuvenate. I invite Sri Lankan travellers to explore the annual tourism events that showcase these incredible tent cities’ explained Dr. Ilayaraja.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Dr. Ilayaraja in his Tourism Presentation emphasised on the city of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, often known as the City of Lakes’, boasts two magnificent lakes, Upper Lake and Lower Lake. Raja Bhoj constructed the Upper Lake, known as ‘Bada Talab,’ in the 11th century. It is the ideal location for water activities. The ‘Chota Talab’ is located east of Upper Lake and the two urban water bodies combined are referred to as ‘Bhoj Wetland’. The lake's management also provides boat rides on paddle, sail and motor boats in addition to sightseeing opportunities. 

Explore the incredible Madhya Pradesh tourism through their experiential journeys, designed and craved by our most experienced local experts. Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) along the private sector DMC offers an experienced team of local experts who are offering tours tailor-made travel services with high precision and perfect customisation.