Sri Lanka set to become 'gateway to south-east Asia'

Travellers wanting to enjoy Sri Lanka's picture postcard beaches and mystical jungles may want to book tailor made holidays to the south-east Asian country, as new plans have been revealed to increase its international stature for tourism.

While the natural beauty, as well as the diverse wildlife and history of the island nation are relatively well-known among international travellers, the government wants to highlight the other attractions that populate Sri Lanka.

Addressing the national assembly, Sri Lankan minister for economic development Bsil Rajapaksa outlined plans to turn the country into the "gateway to the South Asian region", the Colombo Page reports,

In particular, it is hoped that ongoing investment in improved infrastructure and marketing will help attract growing numbers of tourists over the coming years.

Indeed, according to the paper, the government is expecting to see a 20 per cent increase in foreign tourists over the next couple of years alone.

Meanwhile, organisers of the upcoming Australasia Association of Sporting Professionals Men's World Longboard Event will raise the profile of luxury holidays in Sri Lanka when it is held in the surfer-friendly Arugam Bay later in the year.