Impact of Tourism Operations in Spice Gardens for the Sustainable Tourism Development: A Case Study in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Sri Lanka is famous for its spices since historical period. Presently, the spice gardens promote Spice Tourism which is tourist-centric memorable visit to various spice plantations and instils a sophisticated service culture rooted in the ancient times. Kandy, Matale and Mawanella are prominent spice growing regions where most of the spice gardens are located within the radius of hill country. The study was conducted mainly to explore the role of spice gardens and their impacts in moving Sri Lankan tourism in sustainable directions. Additionally, the study has investigated into the problems and difficulties faced by the spice garden operators and the attendant effects on tourist. In-depth interviews, group discussions, participatory observations were inculcated to gather primary qualitative data gathered from the different parties of spice garden operators, tourist guides, tourists, and travel agency operators. The research pointed out the Sri Lankan spice garden physiognomies, significance of the spice garden and spice tourism to Sri Lanka and prevailing negative reviews from the visitors in relation with overpricing, over promising and poor quality products. Mushroomed spice gardens, over competition, climatic changes, and unregistered and unregulated spice gardens have created big challenges and issues for spice garden operators. Even though, the industry has faced a big challenge for its survival and sustainability, the relevant and responsible organizations have not taken the necessary measures effectively. Finally, the study concluded with possible in-hand solutions for spice garden operators to enhance their sustainability and the SLTDA’s responsibility in