Abstract:
Tourism plays a major role in the Sri Lankan economy. It has been recorded that the
last revenue of Sri Lanka from the tourism sector is 386 million US dollars. The majority
of the population of Sri Lanka lives in rural areas and engages in agriculture as their
main source of livelihood. Rural tourism is not just farm-based tourism. It not only
includes farm-based holidays but also comprises special interest nature holidays and
eco-tourism, walking, climbing and riding holidays, adventure, etc. There are special
opportunities in rural areas that can be identified based on eco-tourism and historical
tourism. The objective of this study was to identify the tourism potential of the area as
an additional source of income for the rural community and to explore the potential for
improving eco and historical tourism. Data was collected through questionnaires and
interviews from a sample of 40 randomly selected farmers, officials, and youth, and the
data was analyzed and interpreted using a thematic approach under qualitative analysis.
If tourism is promoted in rural areas, it will be possible to start small businesses such as
providing local food and beverages and businesses based on cultural activities, and these
businesses will gradually reach a higher level of economic growth. Through SWOT
analysis, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats linked to the rural tourism
industry were identified. It would be effective to provide opportunities such as
awareness programs, training, and guidance that can be implemented at the village level
with the intervention of the government. Relevant officials and the public should be
given a basic understanding of how the development of such an industry in rural areas
will affect the economy of the community.
