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Abstract |
Tourism has become a major income source in the Sri Lankan economy. During 1980s, beach tourism was a prominent industry in Sri Lanka. This trend has been changed over time and according to the new world trends. At present, tourism has various sub-divisions such as ecotourism, agro-tourism, adventure tourism and heritage tourism (Fernando & Meedeniya, 2009; SLTDA, 2015). Out of these, ecotourism can be identified as the most popular and fastest growing sub-division of the tourism industry (Donohoe & Needham, 2006; Page & Dowling, 2001; Fennell, 2003). Ecotourism, according to Fenell (2001) is traveling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas. Fennell (2001) identifies five of the most frequently cited variables within ecotourism: (1) reference to where ecotourism occurs (natural areas); (2) conservation; (3) reference to culture; (4) benefits to locals; and (5) education. The practice of ecotourism has generated interest of many stakeholders as it attempts to satisfy contrasting conservation and tourism development needs (Donohoe & Needham, 2006). For Das & Chatterjee (2015), proper management of the ecotourism sites at each of economic, social and environmental could help in the long-term conservation. |
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