The iconic cricket feud between India and Pakistan has thrown the travel trade into a tailspin. With both titans set to battle on Sri Lankan shores, the price of experiencing the “Mother of All Battles” has soared to astronomical levels. Tickets for a direct flight from Delhi to Colombo cost ₹1.8 lakh, and hotel rooms within the island nation have soared to $150 (approx. ₹12,500) per night for a basic stay.
Thousands of fans from the Indian subcontinent and the global diaspora have arrived, which has created a huge supply-demand gap, making the cricket match one of the most expensive sports events in the region this year. The price of international vacations ranges across airfares.
The travel portals are experiencing unprecedented rise. Normally, a round-trip ticket from Delhi to Colombo costs between ₹25,000 and ₹35,000. On account of the India-Pakistan mania:
- Last-minute Surcharges: one-way direct flights are quoted upwards of ₹90,000 while business class seats are virtually non-existent.
- Connecting Flights: Even indirect flights conducted via Chennai or Bengaluru are facing costs that hover around ₹70,000 to ₹80,000, and layovers that can stretch to 12 hours.
- A “Ind vs Pak” Premium: Travel agents say seats were sold out weeks ahead, and the current ₹1.8 lakh price tag indicates the desperation of devotees waiting for a last-minute miracle.
- Colombo’s Hospitality Industry Sizzles. And even the airfares: In Colombo, staying is also a luxury.
Hotel Occupancy: Most 3-star and 4-star hotels close to the stadium are packed at an occupancy of 100%. - Price hikes: Rooms sold for $40–$50 are now listed for $150 and up. And luxury five star ones have added on pricing of $400–$600 per night.
- Short-term rentals: Homestays and Airbnbs in the suburban areas of Colombo are also benefiting, with prices doubling ahead of the match weekend.
Economic Boost for Sri Lanka
As fans feel the pinch, the surge is a huge win for the Sri Lankan economy. The tourism board has forecasted a large inflow of foreign exchange as most of its guests are not just there for the competition; many have also booked more lengthy time in the country visiting Galle, Kandy and Bentota.
"The energy is electric. We haven't seen this kind of footfall for a single sporting event in years. It’s not only an event but also a carnival that fills the whole city," said a local tour operator in Colombo.
