Move over Bali and Thailand - Sri Lanka is Asia’s next must-visit destination

  • November 10, 2025
Move over Bali and Thailand - Sri Lanka is Asia’s next must-visit destination

Sri Lanka, long celebrated as Asia’s hidden gem, is emerging as the next major travel hotspot for international travellers seeking authenticity, adventure and unspoiled natural beauty.

While the hashtag #TravelSriLanka has a relatively modest 47.5K posts on TikTok, it has already accumulated over 210 million views, highlighting a surge in global interest. Google searches for “should I go to Sri Lanka” have also seen a 200% increase in the last year, while demand for “Sri Lanka travel” has surged 72% in the last month alone, signalling growing curiosity from UK travellers. 

As the intrigue in Sri Lanka continues, winter sun experts at Travel Republic are revealing why the island should be top of everyone’s travel list in 2026.

Sri Lanka is stealing the spotlight on TravelTok

A recent TikTok video, viewed over 83,000 times, described Sri Lanka as “what Bali was 20 years ago.” Fans quickly commented: “The most underrated country”, “It sure is and the most magical place ever”, and “Ugh, I need to goooo”, reinforcing the island’s reputation as a beautiful, underestimated destination.

Experts at Travel Republic agreed, adding: “Sri Lanka is becoming one of Asia’s most exciting destinations. It offers stunning beaches, lush islands, rich local culture, and incredible wildlife, all without the crowds that have made other destinations feel overrun. For travellers seeking authenticity and adventure, it’s a destination that still feels fresh and undiscovered, much like Bali did two decades ago.”

Also leading the social media buzz is travel influencer Kyra Mae, who is currently documenting her Sri Lankan adventure on TikTok. Her videos capture everything from having her makeup done locally, to exploring bustling markets, to cooking traditional dishes with a Sri Lankan family - fully immersing herself in the island’s authentic culture. 

One follower commented: “Your videos on your trips are amazing. You really check out the way of life of the locals. Love them”, enforcing that travelers are increasingly seeking cultural and immersive experiences rather than traditional and surface-level sightseeing. 

Experts say it’s a hidden gem, but not for long

With direct flights from the UK, favorable exchange rates, and growing global attention, Sri Lanka is fast emerging as Asia’s next major travel story. Following the resurgence of tourism in Thailand and Bali, Travel Republic predict the island is poised to become the next popular hotspot for international travelers.

The appeal

  • Authenticity – Warm, welcoming locals and experiences that feel genuine are enticing many travellers. For example, the Eco Team Project in Galle works with local fishing villages to provide cooking workshops and guided tours that directly support the community while giving visitors an authentic insight into local life.
  • Diversity – From surfing at sunrise in Arugam Bay, hiking through misty tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, exploring the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, and spotting elephants in Minneriya National Park by sunset - there’s an experience for everyone.
  • Uncrowded – Unlike established destinations such as Bali or Phuket, Sri Lanka remains relatively undiscovered, allowing travellers to enjoy popular sights without the crowds.
  • Year-round destination – Thanks to dual monsoon patterns, there’s always a sunny region to explore, whether it’s the southern beaches or the cultural triangle inland.

Winter sun experts at Travel Republic added: “With Sri Lanka currently having its moment on social media, now is the perfect time to start planning a trip for 2026. The best time to visit the southwest coast and cultural triangle is from December to March, when conditions are warm and dry. For the east coast, including Arugam Bay, April to September offers ideal weather for surfing and beach activities.”