Potentials, Challenges and Opportunities for Tourism Development in the Eastern Province Sri Lanka

Abstract

The eastern province consists of diverse resources that make it especially suited for developing tourism to take maximum advantage of it. Following 2009, tourism in the eastern province shows a promising growth and some star hotels have been constructed along the coastal area. Therefore, the main objectives of this research are to identify and examine the potentiality of tourism development and the challenges and opportunities of tourism development in the eastern province in Sri Lanka. The primary data collected form 100 local and foreign tourists in the study area. Random sampling was used to select respondent. The result of the study indicates that lack of infrastructure, health and safety of tourists, skilled and trained workforce, accommodation, internet and mobile network and the image of the area are challenges of Eastern province tourism industry. This can be overcome through forming tourist police task force, improving health facilities at tourist destination, improved infrastructure, developing tourist circuits and providing training. On the other hand, Eastern province has potential of promoting tourism both locally and internationally because of its geographical location, unique natural environment, rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, historical places, coastal areas and increased tourist flow for last few years. Tourism is a major contributor for economic development is also a potential for tourism development in the eastern province. Several plans have been introduced for tackling these issues by the government under “Tourism Development Strategy”. However, Government departments, private sector and community at large should take part in tourism for sustainable development and maintenance of the tourism sector in Eastern Province.