The 11th edition of Sancharaka Udawa, one of the leading travel and tourism fairs in Sri Lanka, that is organised by Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) is scheduled to take place on may 17 and 18 at the BMICH, a key convention centre in Sri Lanka.

In a press statement, SLAITO says that the exhibition offers an exclusive platform for both B2B and B2C sectors, which will foster engagement between industry stakeholders and pertinent government bodies. It adds that it is expecting over 250 exhibitors and a footfall of over 10,000 visitors.

The statement adds that the event will accommodate businesses of all sizes within the tourism sector, with this year’s edition extending to outbound tourism stakeholders such as travel agents and airlines. The exhibition will conclude with a celebratory gathering, offering networking opportunities for both newcomers and veterans in the industry, alongside an award ceremony honouring the Best Stall Creations.

The organisers say that the primary aim of the exhibition is to establish a networking platform for small and medium-sized service providers within the industry, facilitating connections with tour operators and facilitating their integration into the broader tourism landscape. The anticipated outcome includes a significant surge in bookings for regional small-scale tourism service providers.

Exhibitors stand to gain numerous benefits, including enhanced brand visibility across Sri Lanka’s tourism marketing platforms, reaffirming Sri Lanka Tourism’s commitment to industry capacity building and infrastructure enhancement. In order to foster stronger ties between industry players and government entities, the tourism-related government departments such as the provincial tourism bodies, tourist police will be provided with complimentary stalls.

Additionally, several universities, including Colombo, Uva Wellassa, and Rajarata, will be offered free stalls to encourage student interaction with industry professionals, says SLAITO.

The upcoming event will feature an engaging career guidance meet mart aimed at students in travel, tourism and event management and will consist of seminars and job interviews.

The statement adds that the Sancharaka Udawa 2024 event management is entrusted to CDC Events & Aitken Spence Conventions & Exhibitions by SLAITO.