Abstract:
Eco-tourism is one of the most trending revenue-generating industries
contributing to Sri Lanka’s economic development in many ways. Rumassala
sanctuary, situated in the south of Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for eco tourism. Due to its unique locality surrounded by hills, forests, and the beach,
Rumassala is rich in biodiversity making it more attractive for tourists. This
attraction itself can lead to rapid resource degradation if the proper valuation of
the resource is not conducted. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the
recreation value of the area and the benefits of managing the Rumassala
sanctuary as a national park for eco-tourism. Data were collected from domestic
tourists (n=125) visiting the site through an onsite survey administering a
structured questionnaire. A simple random sampling technique was used. An
environmental valuation approach: Individual Travel Cost method was employed
to estimate the recreation value, entrance fee as well as factors affecting the
visitation rate. Results show that the cost, distance, and the quality of the park
affected the visitation rates positively and significantly. The results revealed an
estimated consumer surplus of Rs. 9,672 per person and the recreational value to
be Rs. 15,797 per person. The visitors were willing to pay a mean value of Rs.35
as the entrance fee. Imposing an optimum entrance fee through proper valuation
can be expected to generate enough funds for the management and conservation
of the area. Given that the park quality is also a decisive factor, adequate
allocation of money for improved facilities can attract more tourists both local
and foreign to Rumassala.
