Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Sri Lanka has been chosen as the world’s top travel destination for October 2025 by Time Out, a major worldwide lifestyle and travel publication. The announcement is part of the publication’s yearly rundown of the best places to visit throughout the month. According to Time Out, Sri Lanka is renowned for its year-round tropical climate, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. In particular, October is an excellent time to visit Sri Lanka, as it falls during the off-peak season, characterized by fewer crowds, lower rates, and typically pleasant weather throughout the island. The magazine praised the island as a destination that offers a little bit of everything, from golden beaches and lush hill-country trails to centuries-old ruins and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Türkiye and New Mexico were close behind on the list, known for their vivid autumn hues and seasonal events. Valencia, New York City, Bhutan, Namibia, and several other destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas were also chosen. The rankings were based on seasonal appeal, cultural activities, and unique travel experiences suitable for October. Sri Lanka’s recognition coincides with a rebound of the country’s tourism economy. New Zealand, in particular, is playing a significant role in gaining new attention. During the Sri Lanka Tourism Expo 2026, hosted on World Tourism Day at One Galle Face in Colombo, New Zealand officials set a goal of bringing over 20,000 Kiwi tourists to the island by 2026.
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More than 13,000 New Zealanders visited Sri Lanka last year alone, signaling growing enthusiasm for the destination. As part of its strategy, New Zealand intends to promote Sri Lanka’s natural attractions, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences, with the goal of strengthening bilateral tourist ties. In addition to these international efforts, Sri Lanka is receiving assistance from the United Nations to help develop a more sustainable tourism economy. The UN Tourism Department is working closely with the government to build a framework that balances growth with environmental responsibility.
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Jaime Mayaki, Director of the International Development and Cooperation Department at UN Tourism, emphasized the goal of delivering measurable outcomes through sustainable tourism. “In Sri Lanka, we’ve been asked to help define best practices for managing visitor experiences and protecting heritage sites,” he said. Deputy Tourism Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe added that local institutions, including the Sustainable Tourism Unit of the University of Colombo, are engaging with industry leaders to promote innovation and youth involvement across the sector.
