Sri Lanka named world's best island destination for 2026

Sri Lanka has been ranked the world's best island destination to visit in 2026, according to the latest rankings released by international travel publication Big 7 Travel.

Sri Lanka secured the top spot among the 50 Best Islands to Visit, with the publication highlighting the country’s 833-mile coastline, picturesque central highlands, world-renowned tea plantations, rich cultural heritage and remarkable biodiversity as the key factors behind its ranking.

The report also noted that iconic attractions such as Yala National Park and Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, played a significant role in earning Sri Lanka the top position.

In a further boost for the country's tourism sector, Unawatuna Beach was ranked 26th among the world's 50 Best Beaches, according to the report.