Sri Lanka has reopened its borders for international tourists on Thursday, ending a 10-month coronavirus-related closure, officials said.

Tourism Minister, Prasanna Ranatunga said the move will enable tourists, except those from countries where outbound travel is restricted, to visit Sri Lanka and travel to selected destinations.

However, the number of daily arrivals will be restricted to 2,500 in view of limitations in carrying out COVID-19 tests, he said.

Tourists are expected to arrive with a PCR test obtained 72 hours before arrival confirming their health, thereafter, they must undergo three more PCR tests during a two-week stay.

Sri Lanka has selected 55 hotels where the visiting tourists are allowed to stay and will only be able to travel to selected destinations in groups organised by the hotels.

The local staff involved in transporting tourists will have to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits.

Hotel staff will be prevented from mingling with the local community.

The country’s tourism revenue dropped in 2020 to $900m, a stark contrast to average annual earnings of $4bn.

The moves to open up for tourists comes in spite of Sri Lanka recording an average of 600 coronavirus cases daily.

The death toll stands at 274.