Abstract:
1. Introduction
The present study discusses the impact of tourism on the Vedda
community's traditional way of life in Dambana and Rathugala. This
research looks into the impacts brought about by tourism concerning
cultural commodification, economic impact, environmental repercussions,
and modernization within society. This study will try to add to how
sustainable tourism strategies can be implemented to maintain the culture
while developing the economy.
2. Research Methodology
This research is quantitative and follows the theory of positivism. It was
based on a structured questionnaire that was administered to 87 members
(according to the Morgan table) of the community, using a purposive
sampling method. SPSS was used for the regression and correlation
analysis to outline the relationships between the impact of tourism and the
lifestyle of the Vedda community. This provides an orderly framework
within which to understand how tourism interacts with Indigenous
practices within this study context.
3. Findings and Discussion
Research findings show that environmental repercussions haven’t a
significant impact, while commodification of culture, economic impact, and
socio-modernization have a significant impact on the traditional lifestyle of
the Vedda community in Damban and Rathugala. The trend of
modernization and cultural commodification had a negative impact on the
traditional lifestyle of the Vedda community. The aspects pinpoint the
demand for tourism policies, which must balance economic benefits with
the protection of cultural values.
4. Conclusion and Implications
This research highlights the need to balance engaging in tourism activities
respectfully while maintaining the traditions of the local Vedda
communities. The results of this study can be utilized by policymakers and
relevant actors in the tourism spheres to conceive strategies that promote
economic development while appreciating the cultural values of the people.
I suggest that the present study could be extended to other Indigenous co
