Air India today began its flight linking Varanasi to Sri Lankan capital, Colombo. The service was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Sri Lanka in May. <br/><br/>Mr Modi, while participating as the Chief Guest in the opening of UN Vesak Day celebrations announced that Air India will operate direct flights between Colombo and Varanasi from August to honor and deepen the links of Buddhist heritage.<br/><br/>The biweekly service on Friday and Sunday will depart from Varanasi at 12.35 PM and from Colombo at 4.55 PM. The service will cater to the Buddhist pilgrims of the island nation visiting the popular destinations like Sarnath and Kushinagar. The flight from Colombo has got almost 100 percent booking on the inaugural day.<br/><br/>It will also prove convenient for Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka to visit the places associated with the Ramayana age . A recent survey showed Indians accounted for the highest share of tourist arrivals in the neighbouring country.