Thai-Sri Lanka:

Pilgrim tourism promotion

Richmond Wijesekera Bentota Group correspondent

Sri Lanka and Thailand had close relationship from ancient times. Both countries have Buddhism as the main religion and similar cultural activities.

Therefore the two countries have potential to promote pilgrim tourism in a sustainable manner, Southern Province Governor Kumari Balasuriya said. She was speaking at a religious ceremony at Kosgoda Gane Purana Raja Maha Viharaya to welcome Thai Royal Family members.

The annual number of tourists from Sri Lanka to Thailand accounts to around 40,000 while 4,000 to 5,000 Thai tourists visit Sri Lanka, she said. The tourist arrivals from Thailand reduced mainly due to the three decade war, which took the country backwards.

With restoration of peace, the number of visitors from Thailand is increasing, she said.

The tourism promotions are essential to attract more travellers.

Promoting different ways of tourism rather than the conventional leisure tourism such as eco-tourism, agro tourism, pilgrim tourism, medical tourism, adventure tourism and knowledge tourism are vital to attract new markets.

Thai Delegation head Thakur Phanit and Ven Kosgoda Siri Saranankara Nayaka Thera also spoke.