An Analysis of Adventure Tourism Potential in Sri Lanka: Opportunities and Barriers
Muthunaidelage, Nirmala; Vithanawasam, Yasodha (2025)
2025
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https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202504176848
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202504176848
Tiivistelmä
Adventure tourism is a rapidly growing sector within the global tourism industry, driven by the increasing demand for unique, immersive experiences. This study aimed to explore the potential of adventure tourism in Sri Lanka, focusing on the balance between sustainable practices and the preservation of natural resources.
The theoretical framework of this research emphasized the importance of sustainability in adventure tourism, highlighting the need for responsible tourism practices that protect fragile ecosystems. It discussed the role of local communities as key stewards of Sri Lanka's natural heritage and the necessity of implementing ecotourism guidelines and conservation awareness campaigns to mitigate environmental damage.
The research employed qualitative methods, utilizing semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including tourism operators, government officials, local communities, and tourists. Data collection occurred from January to February 2025, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the adventure tourism landscape in Sri Lanka.
The findings indicated that Sri Lanka's natural resources, such as its mountains, beaches, and wildlife, are major attractions for adventure tourists. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, and a lack of regulatory frameworks hinder the sector's growth. Additionally, the shortage of skilled workers in adventure tourism-related fields and the impact of over-tourism in popular destinations were identified as significant concerns.
In conclusion, this research provided a comprehensive analysis of the adventure tourism sector in Sri Lanka, identifying key areas for improvement and offering practical recommendations for stakeholders. By addressing the challenges and leveraging available opportunities, Sri Lanka could unlock the full potential of adventure tourism and position itself as a leading destination for adventure travellers worldwide.
The theoretical framework of this research emphasized the importance of sustainability in adventure tourism, highlighting the need for responsible tourism practices that protect fragile ecosystems. It discussed the role of local communities as key stewards of Sri Lanka's natural heritage and the necessity of implementing ecotourism guidelines and conservation awareness campaigns to mitigate environmental damage.
The research employed qualitative methods, utilizing semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including tourism operators, government officials, local communities, and tourists. Data collection occurred from January to February 2025, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the adventure tourism landscape in Sri Lanka.
The findings indicated that Sri Lanka's natural resources, such as its mountains, beaches, and wildlife, are major attractions for adventure tourists. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, and a lack of regulatory frameworks hinder the sector's growth. Additionally, the shortage of skilled workers in adventure tourism-related fields and the impact of over-tourism in popular destinations were identified as significant concerns.
In conclusion, this research provided a comprehensive analysis of the adventure tourism sector in Sri Lanka, identifying key areas for improvement and offering practical recommendations for stakeholders. By addressing the challenges and leveraging available opportunities, Sri Lanka could unlock the full potential of adventure tourism and position itself as a leading destination for adventure travellers worldwide.