Abstract:
Ecotourism is a type of tourism which relates to the responsible travelling in the
natural environment, aiming to minimize the negative impact on the environment,
promoting conservation efforts while providing an educational, enjoyable experience
for tourists while increasing the wellbeing of local community. Kamburupitiya
district secretariat division in Sri Lanka is enriched with a significant eco-tourism
potential in terms of biodiversity, historical significance, and culture. This study is
focused on identifying such locations with ecotourism potential in Kamburupitiya
divisional secretariat division and providing recommendations for sustainable
tourism development in the selected area. A three-month cross-sectional study was
conducted from August,2023 to November,2023. Primary data were collected
through field visits, observations, and a questionnaire. The results of the primary data
collection were instrumental in identifying seven potential locations in the study area,
namely Sabarale Sri Niwasarama Purana Viharaya, Bibulewela water bubble,
Arambegoda Pabbatharama viharaya, Oliyagankale conservation forest, Lenabatuwa
lake, Badde Viharaya-Vihara Forest and Nidangala rock. The eco-tourism potential
was evaluated using Pralong’s method in the seven identified locations, where the
method was used to identify locations with apparent aesthetic value, scientific value,
cultural value, economic value and tourist value. Results revealed that the
Lenabatuwa tank is the most potential eco-tourist destination (0.5438) while,
Bibulewela water bubble claimed the lowest (0.2665) in the area. According to the
Likert scale, local people were highly aware of Lenabatuwa tank (4.392), and the least
awareness was for Badde viharaya (2.272). Lack of awareness, weak infrastructures,
and less government involvement were the main weaknesses in developing
ecotourism in Kamburupitiya area.
