The exhibition, which had representations from travel companies from 30 countries and about 900 participating agents was inaugurated by the Indian Minister of Tourism, Mahesh Sharma on 14th February.
High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in India Chitranganee Wagiswara, inaugurated the Sri Lanka Pavilion on 15th February, in the presence of the Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Suthesh Balasubramaniam. Sri Lanka was one of the partner countries of the exhibition.
Displayed at the Sri Lanka Pavilion were pictures of tourist attractions, illustrating the beauty and the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Tourist brochures were available for the visitors and the Sri Lanka pavilion highlighted the many aspects of the great potential Sri Lanka has to be a major tourist destination in the world. The visitors notably showed a significant interest on the “Ramayana Trails” in Sri Lanka.
Ceylon tea was served to the visitors with a view to promote “Pure Ceylon Tea” in India. A seven member dance troupe from the Western Province Aesthetic Resort performed both at the Sri Lanka pavilion and the inauguration ceremony.