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CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION
Economic integration is the unification of economic policies between different states through
the partial or full abolition of tariff and non-tariff restrictions on trade taking place among them
prior to their integration. This is meant in turn to lead to lower prices for distributors and
consumers with the goal of increasing the combined economic productivity of the states.
The trade stimulation effects intended by means of economic integration are part of the
contemporary economic Theory of the Second Best where, in theory, the best option is free trade,
with free competition and no trade barriers whatsoever. Free trade is treated as an idealistic
option, and although realized within certain developed states, economic integration has been
thought of as the "second best" option for global trade where barriers to full free trade exist.
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an organization of South
Asian nations, which was established on 8 December 1985 when the government of Bangladesh ,
Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka formally adopted its charter providing
for the promotion of economic and social progress, cultural development within the South Asia
region and also for friendship and cooperation with other developing countries. It is dedicated to
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economic, technological, social, and cultural development emphasizing collective self-reliance.
Its seven founding members are Sri Lanka, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan,
and Bangladesh. Afghanistan joined the organization in 2007. Meetings of heads of state are
usually scheduled annually; meetings of foreign secretaries, twice annually. It is headquartered in
Kathmandu, Nepal. One of the SAARC areas of cooperation is TOURISM.
OBJECTIVES:
SAARC was established to achieve the following objectives:
1. To promote the welfare of the peoples of South Asia and to improve their quality oflife.
2. To accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in theregion and to provide all individuals the opportunity to live in dignity and to realise
their full potential.
3. To promote and strengthen collective self-reliance among the countries of south asia.4. To contribute to mutual trust, understanding and appreciation of one anothers
problem.
5. To promote active collaboration and mutual assistance in the economic, social,cultural, technical, and scientific fields.
6. To strengthen cooperation with other developing countries.7.
To strengthen cooperation among themselves in international forums on matters of
common interests.
8. To cooperate with international and regional organizational with similar aims.
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The important principles which govern the SAARC are:
1. Respect for sovereignty , territorial integrity, political equality and independence ofall members states.
2. Non-interference in the internal matters is one of its objectives.3. Cooperation for mutual benefit.4. All decisions to be taken unanimously and need a quorum of all eight members.5. All bilateral issues to be kept aside and only multilateral(involving many countries)
Issues to be discussed without being prejudiced by bilateral issues.
SECRETARIAT:
The SAARC secretariat was established in Kathmandu on 16 january 1987 and wasinaugurated by late king Birendra bir bikram shah of Nepal.
It is headed by a secretary general appointed by the council of ministers from membercountries in alphabetical order for a three year term. He is assisted by the professional
and the general services staff and also an appropriate number of functional units
called divisions assigned to directors on deputation from member states. The
secretariat coordinates and monitors implementation of activities, prepares for and
services meetings, and serves as a channel of communication between the association
and its member states as well as other regional organizations.
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The memorandum of understanding on the establishment of the secretariat which wassigned by foreign ministers of member countries on 17 November 1986 at Bangalore,
India contains various clauses concerning the role, structure and administration of the
SAARC secretariat as well as the powers of the secretary general.
In several recent meetings the heads of state or government of member state ofSAARC have taken some important decisions and bold initiatives to strengthen the
organization and to widen and deepen regional cooperation.
The SAARC secretariat and member states observe 8 december as the SAARCcharter day 1.
SOUTH ASIAN FREE TRADE AREA:
The agreement on SAFTA is an agreement reached at the 12th
SAARC summit at
Islamabad on 6th
January 2004. It creates a framework for the creation of a free trade area among
SAARC countries.
SAFTA came into effect on 1st
January 2006 with the aim of reducing tariffs for intraregional
trade among 7 SAARC countries. SAFTA requires that india, Pakistan and srilanka to bring
down their duties to 20 percent in the 1st
phase of two years period ending in 2007. In the final
five year phase trading 2012, the 20 percent duty will have to be reduced to zero in a series of
annual cuts. The least developed country group in south Asia consisting of Nepal, Bhutan,
Bangladesh, Maldives, and Afghanistan gets an additional 3 years to reach zero duty.
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CURRENT STATES:
Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
India
Maldives
Nepal
Pakistan
Srilanka
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CHAPTER 2 : HISTORY, ORIGIN OF SAARC
ORIGIN:
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation(SAARC) is an organization of south
asian nations, founded in december 1985, and dedicated to economic technological, social, and
cultural development emphasizing collective self reliance. Its seven founding members are
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Srilanka. Afghanistan joined the
organization in 2005. Meetings of heads of state are usually scheduled; annually , meetings of
foreign secretariats, twice annually. It is headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The 11 states area of cooperation are: agriculture, education, culture and sports, health ,
population, and child welfare, the environment and meteorology, rural development(including
the SAARC volunteers program), tourism, transport, science and technology, communications.
HISTORY:
The concept of SAARC was first adopted by Bangladesh during 1977, under the administration
of president Ziaur Rahman. In the late 1970s SAARC nations agreed upon the creation of trade
bloc consisting of south asian countries.The idea of a South Asia Association for Regional
Cooperation was mooted in 1980. The Foreign Ministers of the future SAARC countries met at
Colombo in 1981 to discuss the issue of regional cooperation and agreed upon the principles of
unanimity in decision making and Keeping bilateral disputes out of the framework of regional
cooperation.
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The Integrated Programme of Action (IPA) was endorsed in a Foreign Secretary meeting held at
Dhaka in August 1982. The IPA identified eleven areas of cooperationagriculture,
communications, education-culture-sports, environment and meteorology, health and population
activities, prevention of drug trafficking and drug abuse, rural development, science and
technology, tourism, transport, and women in development. To translate the objectives enshrined
in the Charter the Foreign Ministers of member countries met in Colombo for the first
Preparatory meeting of SAARC. They agreed on the agenda for SAARC, which included issues
like rural development, agriculture, meteorology, telecommunication, health and population,
science and technology, transport, and posts & telegraph services. The third meeting held in
Thimpu agreed on sports, arts and culture, and planning and development, which were
incorporated into the list of areas for cooperation. The Thimpu meeting also led to agreement on
the creation of an institutional framework for SAARC and decided the venue and the dates of the
first SAARC summit. After these three preparatory meetings the SAARC summit was held in
Dhaka in 1985.
The SAARC Charter envisages that cooperation among member-states will be based on
sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence and non-interference in internal
affairs. The Charter further states that regional cooperation shall not substitute for bilateral or
multilateral cooperation or be inconsistent with them but rather it should compliment them.
SAARC charter day is celebrated on December 8 every year. The charter was adopted in the
first SAARC summit held in Dhaka in 1985.
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OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
We study
In this project report we will study TOURISM development in one of the SAARC countries
:SRILANKA.what are its tourist attractions , sustainable tourism development
RATIONALE BEHIND THE STUDY
The age old civilization, prosperous cultural diversity, exclusive culinary delights, vast
geographical attractions, fascinating heritage sites and above all the warm hospitality of people
make the South Asian countries an amazing region for tourism.
This report is about Saarc tourism of Srilanka.
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CHAPTER 3 : RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
It refers to the method adopted to collect the relevant data and other information , which
forms the basis of thesis writing. So for the effective writing of the thesis report, the data
must be quality oriented. My research is done through 2stages:
Stage I: Data source
Secondary data: Secondary data represents information that already exists somewhere,
having been collected for another purpose.
The secondary sources that came to be utilized by in these were as follows:
I. Internal sources:
- Economics and global trade and finance book.II. External sources:
- Internet servicesStage II: Analysis
In this stage all collected data had been analyzed and then a report had been written.
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COMPILATION OF DATA COLLECTED
One of the areas of cooperation of SAARC is TOURISM.
The importance of tourism had been recognized since early days of SAARC.
The Leaders during the Second Summit held at Bangalore in 1986 underlined that concrete steps
should be taken to facilitate tourism in the region.A Technical Committee on Tourism was
created in 1991.
South Asia Tourism Society.
South Asia Tourism Society (SATS) is an organization, working relentlessly and selflessly to
promote Trade and Tourism between the nations in the SAARC Association. On account of
promoting tourism in the SAARC nations, we provide significant information to the people,
helping them to know one another better. We are thankful to all the sources including the official
website of SAARC, from where we have gathered some relevant information, which helped us to
promote tourism at its best. Altogether, we are an entirely independent organization and nowhere
connected to any of the official organizations of SAARC.
We at SATS, encourage people of South Asia to work together in a spirit of friendship, trust and
understanding leading to peace & progress in the region, through our selfless service in
promoting Trade & Tourism in the region. In our pursuit to excellence, we aim to intensify the
process of social-economic development in the SAARC Countries by promoting active
collaboration and mutual assistance in the economic, social, cultural, technical and scientific
fields.
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We at SATS, have commissioned some of the best brains in the industry to promote tourism for
the development & progress of tourism in the South Asian region. Our activities helps in
exchange of useful information between the SAARC Countries, leading to socio-economic
development of the countries in the SAARC Association. Our team of experts strive to contribute
substantially to the Tourism industry of the region, by making it an increasingly desired tourist
destination of the world. Their uncompromising service, helps us in binding the history & culture
of the nations by encouraging good neighborly relationship among the member states.
We have recognized that increased cooperation, contacts and exchanges of information among
the countries of the region will contribute to the promotion of friendship and understanding
among the people of the region. We are supported by our proficient workers, who are on their
forefront, to reaffirm the determination of the SAARC Association on Tourism, by promoting
tourism within an institutional framework. SATS is here to accelerate the economic growth,
social progress and cultural development in the region and to provide all individuals with
growing and satisfying information about the region on tourism.
Through our itinerary of information, we aspire to promote tourism in urban as well as in the
rural areas. We are desirous of promoting tourism to the far reaching areas in all the SAARC
nations, which will improving the lifestyle of the people in the region.Through our significant
informations and guidance, we are desirous of providing better way of life in all the corners of
the SAARC nations.
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The information provided by us are aimed towards tourism, to make it a way of life in the region.
We hope that our honest service and authentic information, will promote business, employment
and will open doors for many more other activities in the South Asian region, leading to
advancement of human life. We are always at out forefront to avail you with all required
information regarding tourism, as and when needed.
We thank SAARC for its inclusion of Tourism within the boundary of IPA (Integrated
Programme of Action). We are highly obliged and at the same time thankful to SAARC for the
informations we have collected from their sites. We highly appreciate their contribution, they
have done to us through their informations, leading to our success in the business and overall
development of tourism industry in the region. We are in no intention of doing any abdicable
business with any of the informations. We revalue their part and reassure them of not being
unfriendly, something which leads to undesirable circumstances. To comply with the SAARC
curriculum, we constantly review the progress on the SAARC Scheme for Promotion of
Organized Tourism in the area. In our pursuit to excellence, we endeavor to promote and
strengthen Tourism in the countries of SOUTH ASIA, leading to significant progress in all the
quarters of development.
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Tourism
The importance of tourism had been recognized since early days of SAARC. The Leaders
during the Second Summit held at Bangalore in 1986 underlined that concrete steps should be
taken to facilitate tourism in the region.A Technical Committee on Tourism was created in
1991. During the First Meeting of the Technical Committee on Tourism held in Colombo in
October 1991, an Action Plan on Tourism was formulated.
1. First Meeting of the SAARC Tourism Ministers was held in Colombo in September
1997. It adopted Colombo Resolution and approved a number of important activities. In 1999,
the task of promoting tourism was assigned to the SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry
(SCCI) Tourism Council.
2. The Twenty-fourth Session of the Council of Ministers (Islamabad, 2-3 January 2004)
approved establishment of the Working Group on Tourism. The First Meeting was held in
Colombo in August 2004. The Working Group on Tourism prepared Plan of Activities which
includes promotion of SAARC as a common tourist destination, to encourage private sector in
promoting regional cooperation in tourism, human resource development, promotion of South
Asia identity through tourism, cultural and eco-tourism development. The Working Group was
authorized to periodically review implementation of this Action Plan.
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3. During the Thirteenth Summit (Dhaka, 12-13 November 2005), the Leaders stressed that
continued efforts would be made by the Member States at all levels to promote people-to-people
contact by facilitating travel among SAARC countries, promotion of youth exchanges in culture
and sports, promotion of intra-SAARC tourism, establishment of linkages among professional
bodies and through adoption of other concrete measures. They decided to launch 2006 as South
Asia Tourism Year." They directed their Ministers for Tourism to meet at an early date and
elaborate a plan of activities to be undertaken during the year 2006.
4. The Tourism Ministers who met at Coxs Bazar (Bangladesh) in May 2006, adopted the
Coxs Bazar SAARC Action Plan on Tourism.
5. Second Meeting of the Working Group on Tourism, held in Colombo on 3-4 July 2006,
recommended that for promoting SAARC as common tourist destination (i) national airlines may
use SAARC logo on aircrafts and other promotional brochures; (ii) national airlines may also use
SAARC flag with their own flag as well as national flags at their offices and (iii) the Head of
Mission representing the Chair of SAARC will organize special events in celebration of SAARC
Charter Day on 8 December, with focus on promoting tourism.
6. In the Fourteenth Summit the Heads of State or Government while noting the cultural and
social ties among the SAARC countries, based on common history and geography, reiterated that
the future of peoples of South Asia is interlinked. They stressed the importance of people-to-
people contact as a key constituent in regional connectivity.
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They acknowledged the importance of intra-regional tourism and increased exchanges,
particularly among the youth, civil society, and parliamentarians. They agreed to take measures
to charge nationals of SAARC Member States fees for entry into archeological and heritage sites
as applicable to their own nationals.
7. The Heads of State or Government during the Fifteenth Summit underscored the vital
contribution that tourism could afford to the economic development of the SAARC region. They
agreed to make every effort to implement the comprehensive action plan adopted by the Second
Ministerial Meeting held at Coxs Bazaar, Bangladesh. These efforts would include facilitating
the movement of people through improved travel infrastructure and air, sea and land connectivity
among the SAARC countries, collaboration in human resource development and the promotion
of SAARC as a common destination through public-private partnerships and joint campaigns.
8. The Working Group in its Third Meeting held in Colombo in April 2009 reviewed the
status of implementation of the Summit directives, SAARC Action Plan on tourism, and various
decisions taken by the Ministerial and Working Group Meetings. It also finalized a list of
activities to be undertaken during the year 2009-10 for tourism promotion among the SAARC
countries.
9. Third Meeting of the SAARC Tourism Ministers, preceded by Fourth Meeting of the
Working Group on Tourism was held at Kathmandu in January 2011. The Meeting reviewed
implementation of the decisions taken at its last meeting.
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It also reviewed the status of implementation of the SAARC Action Plan on Tourism-2006 and
noted with satisfaction that most of the decisions taken earlier have been implemented by the
Member States.
10. The Minister/ leaders of the delegations in their statements emphasized that concerted
efforts should be made by Member States to implement all decisions taken by this Forum as well
as the Working Group Meetings. They reiterated to adopt a collective approach in promoting
regional tourism.
On December 8 1985, an association namedSAARCwas introduced for the social,
technological and economic development of the South Asian countries. For further innovative
ideas, the heads of these countries decided to meet once every year and the meeting was named
Saarc summit.
17
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Coined as South Asian Association For Regional Cooperation this group consisted of South
Asian countries like India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan and
Maldives as the Saarc nations. Further this group also started working on the development of
these countries as the prominent travel destinations.
There are about 45 leading tour operators from India, Maldives, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal,
Bangladesh and Pakistan participating in the conclave. The conclave is focusing on various
strategies to promote tourist destinations and products in the SAARC region.
"We must motivate each SAARC country in such a way that tourism becomes the focus of
economic and political agenda," he said.
Acknowledging the potential of the region, Sahai said that SAARC nations have immense
growth potential, which till date has not been fully utilized.
"If it could be fully utilized in all possible ways, the SAARC region has the potential to steer the
economy of the world. The cultural diversity of the SAARC region is unique, and the
combination of scenic landscapes, natural beauty, and ethnic multiplicity - only add to its
international appeal.
"All these facts unite to make the SAARC region a greattourist attraction. In fact, most SAARC
nations have already realized this potential at individual level but with a concerted effort, the
success culminated would be many folds," he said.
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The seven-member countries are an important source market for India as 1,013,516 tourists from
SAARC region visited India in 2011 as compared to 9, 98,179 in 2010.
SAARC TOURISM:
The age old civilization, prosperous cultural diversity, exclusive culinary delights, vast
geographical attractions, fascinating heritage sites and above all the warm hospitality of people
make the South Asian countries an amazing region for tourism.
SAARC NATIONS:
Saarc Tourism, an esteemed portal provides comprehensive travel information on these South
Asian Countries that together form the "Saarc Countries". The portal serves as your holiday
planner to any of these Saarc nations, highlighting the prominent natural, archaeological,
spiritual attractions as well as the top tourist activities. Saarc Tourism also lists out numerous
exciting travel packages for international tourists interested in exploring the treasures of South
Asia. One of the south asian country is srilanka .
Climate :
Since Sri Lanka is a tropical country, you can expect the rain anytime of the year in most parts.
However, the two major rainy seasons are North-East monsoon (October to January)
and South-West monsoon (May to July).Being an island, the climate of Sri Lanka changes
dramatically from one part of the country to another. For example atNuwara Eliya, in the hills
ofCentral Sri Lanka, has a temperature around -5-20 C throughout the year, whereas
Hambanthota, located in the dry zone, has a temperature consistently around 30-35 C.
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SRILANKA:
Amongst the top Saarc countries from tourism point of view, Sri Lanka is also one of the most
visited tourists destinations in the world. Surrounded by water all around, Sri Lanka is situated in
the midst of Arabian Sea. The most remarkable features of Sri Lanka is the beauty of its exotic
beaches. The island country's rich cultural heritage and majestic landscape makes it an amazing
tourists destinations. The world famous Maria band of Sri Lanka will surely get your booty
pooping to its beats.
Here Few places in the world can offer the traveller such a remarkable combination of stunning
landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences within such a
compact location. Within a mere area of65, 610 kilometres lie 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites,
1,330 kilometres of coastline - much of it pristine beach
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15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates,
250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25,000 water bodies, to a culture that extends
back to over 2,500 years.
This is an island of magical proportions, once known as Serendib, Taprobane, the Pearl of the
Indian Ocean, and Ceylon .Check out Sri Lanka general information about its inspiring Buddhist
culture including fine arts and crafts, abundance of wildlife, ancient cities to colonial forts and
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Also know about the area of Sri Lanka, its capital,
monetary unit, population, government, national flag, anthem, ethnic blending, climate and
industries. This info would surely help you to better understand the country when you tour Sri
Lanka.
Attractions of srilanka:
Adams peak:
Adam's Peak is considered sacred by the adherents of all four major religions: Buddhists,
Hindus, Christians and Muslims. At the top of peak is a platform where a Buddhist temple and
the shrine of Saman is located.
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All people in Sri Lanka have regard for Adam's Peak.
No matter whether the person is Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist or Christian, they have regard for
Adam's Peak. The mountain which is also known as Sri Pada, enjoys reverence all over Sri
Lanka.
Beaches:
Prominent beaches of Sri Lanka are Mt. Lavinia, Negombo on West Coast and Beruwala,
Bentota and Hikkaduwa on South Coast. Underwater beauty makes Hikkaduwa attractive. Mt.
Lavinia and Negombo are popular among tourists.
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Archaeological Wonders:
Archaeological past of Sri Lanka manifests itself in the colossal stupas and stone structures. The
country has seen several phases of history and with every phase it witnessed some new
monuments.
Museums:
Museums give us insight into the past of Sri Lanka. They tell us how the country has evolved
since ancient times. Particular for the people interested in history these museums are source of
joy. Tour these museums.
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Pilgrimage:
Popular pilgrimage centres among the people of Sri Lanka are Temple of Tooth, Adam's Peak,
Bogoda Bridge and Temple, Buduruwagala, Down Cave Temple and Muthiyangana. First two
are most popular.
Sinharaja Forest:
Sinharaja Rain Forest, lying over the area of about 11187 hectares, has always been a preferred
destination of the eco lovers. Having great diversity of flora and fauna, the forest is the home of
several beasts.
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FOOD OF SRILANKA:
Food of Sri Lanka is hot and spicy. Base food of the inhabitants of the
island is rice which they consume with curry both veg and fish based.
All the dishes are cooked on the base of coconut milk and flavored by
liberal use of spices. Like all the people of coastal regions, the Sri
Lankans are also expert in preparing fish dishes. Mallung, Sambol,
Lamprais, Buriyani and Polos Pehi are some popular dishes of Sri Lanka. Sri Lankans also like
several juicy sweetmeats like Kavum, Halape, Thalaguli and Wattalapam. Sri Lankans also like
to have drinks like tea and coffee.
Curry
Curry accompanies the dishes of meat, vegetables or fish. Number of spices, all roasted and then
stone-ground come together to prepare these curries. Coconut milk forms the base of this curry.
Fresh herbs and garnishes flavour these curries. Basic items like chicken, beef, mutton, eggs or
vegetables are cooked in a thick sauce of coconut milk with all the ingredient spices. There is
plenty of variety in fish curries across the region. The Sri Lankans have their own distinctive
style of preparing fish curries. Southern ambul thiyal or sour fish curry is very famous.
Vegetarian curries are prepared from very available fruit or vegetable like brinjals, beans,
beetroot, carrot, banana flower, pumpkin etc.
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Curries in Sri Lanka are very hot. However, adjustments are made to suit the foreign palate.
Ingredients of curries include chilli powder, fresh chillies, cinnamon, tumeric, curry powder,
curry leaves, onions, garlic, ginger and coconut milk.
Rice
Rice is the staple food of the Sri Lankans. Almost every household in Sri Lanka takes rice and
curry as its main meal. Rice too comes in plenty of variety. Samba is a pearly rice consumed on
special occasions. On festivals yellow rice is cooked on the base of coconut milk and delicately
flavoured by spices. Kiribath or milk-rice is a popular festive dish. Large grained milchard
variety of rice gives a slightly pungent smell when cooked.
Fish Dishes
People of coastal towns consume delicious fresh fish with prawsn, crabs and lobsters. Fried fish
is eaten with chips and salad while fish curry is taken with rice. Sour fish curry is a popular dish
of southern Sri Lanka. Tuna, seer and para fish are very popular among the natives of Sri Lanka.
Popular Dishes
Mallung is fondly eaten with curries. Prepared from finely shredded green vegetables and dried
shrimps, it is mingled with grated coconut and spices. Sambol is a spicy hot dish. Pol Symbol is
a simple combination of grated coconut, onions, red pepper, lime and salt. Seeni Sambol is a
juicy combination of Maldive fish preserve and spicy onion.
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27The Sri Lankans are fond of eating wafers, pickles and chutneys with their food. Lamprais is a
dish with unique flavour.
Plenty of ingredients including curries, cutlets, sambols, special prawn paste, eggplant curry and
rice are kept together in a banana leaf and baked. Buriyani is rice cooked in meat stock. Polos
Pehi is a dish made of the tender fruit of the jak tree. Several juicy sweetmeats are also part of
the island's cuisine. Kavum is a battercake made of ground rice and treacle. Halape is a blending
of coconut, jaggery and floor. Thalaguli is a confectionary ball. Many Indian sweetmeats are also
found in Sri Lanka, specially in Colombo and Kandy. Wattalapam is a mouth-watering dessert.
Curd and treacle is also very much liked by the visitors. Scrunchy sandwiches, delicious biscuits,
potato chips and sausages are used as snacks by the Sri Lankans.
Fruits
Several varieties of fruits are found in Sri Lanka. One can enjoy fruits
like mangoes, pineapple, water melon, papaya, woodapple, bananas
(also known as plantains), and rambuttan (a fruit resembling lychees).
Some of these fruits are found only in Sri Lanka.
Drinks
Sri Lanka is among the topmost producers of tea in the world. Usually, it is consumed with sugar
and milk. Some people are fond of taking 'plain tea' which means tea only with sugar and
without milk. Crushed ginger can add more flavour to the tea.
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The Sri Lankans also like to have coffee. Colombo is a place to enjoy really good espresso.
Indigenous cold drinks in Sri Lanka are made of fresh fruit. Bottled carbonated branded drinks
like Coca-Cola, Sprite, Pepsi etc. are also widely available. Carbonated drink brands Elephant
House and Ginger Beer are very popular in Sri Lanka. People also like drinking water of young
coconut. Cut fresh they are delicious and nutritious too. An array of locally produced and
imported beers are also available. Two local intoxicating drinks are Toddy and Arrack. Toddy is
made out of palm trees while Arrack is fermented and refined toddy.
People of srilanka:
People of Sri Lanka can be categorised on two bases: ethnic groups
and religion. On ethnic base biggest group are the Sinhalese and then
the Tamils. On basis of religion followers of Buddhism form the
largest community in Sri Lanka. As for education most rural people
recieve traditional education. European government introduced
western education in Sri Lanka.
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Ehtnic Groups
People of Sri Lanka are divided into four ethnic groups. These are the Sinhalese, the Tamils, the
Muslims, and the Burghers. According to a data collected in 2001 the population percentage in
Sri Lanka is: Sinhalese 73.8%, Sri Lankan Moors 7.2%, Indian Tamil 4.6%, Sri Lankan Tamil
3.9%, other 0.5%, unspecified 10%. Two chief characteristics that mark a person's ethnic
heritage are language and religion. Sinhals are the largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka. Historians
have concluded that groups from north India who migrated to the island around 500BC were
later known as Sinhals. Most Sinhals are the followers of Buddhism.
Buddhist monasteries are the centres of cultural life for the Sinhalese. Forefathers of the Tamils
migrated to Sri Lanka from southern India particularly Tamil Nadu. Most Tamils in Sri Lanka
are Hindus. Lankan Tamils are united by their common religions beliefs, and the Tamil language
and culture. As for the Lankan Muslims they have separate places of worship, religious and
cultural heroes, ways of society, and even languages. Lankan Muslim community can be
segregated into three main sections--the Sri Lankan Moors, the Indian Moors, and the Malays,
each with its own history and rituals.
Religion
Most inhabitants of Sri Lanka are the followers of Buddhism, most of them from Sinhala
community. Them come the people who have embraced Islam as their religion. Most Tamil
people in Sri Lanka follow Hinduism. Then commes the Christian community.
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According to 2001 census the percentage of the followers of various religions in Sri Lanka is as
follows:
Buddhist 70%, Islam 8%, Hindu 7%, Christian 6%
Education
Traditionally people were given only religious education. Among
Sinhals learning was the job of Buddhist monks. They used to teach
privileged students in the monasteries. Sinhala alphabet and Buddhist
literature were taught to the students. As for the Tamil they took
temples in village temples run by Brahmins. Professional training was limited to particular castes
or families. It was imparted to the students of the arts like architecture or sculpture, for
engineers, who applied geometrical knowledge to problems of irrigation and for craftsmen in
various trades. European rulers introduced Western education in Sri Lanka.
The Dutch in particular set up a well-organised system of schools which provided elementary
education. Later part of the 19th century saw several steps regarding education in the country.
Many medical and law colleges were established. Private institutions were encouraged to adopt
government policies. Traditional schools taught in Sinhala and Tamil, while private imparted
English education. English education became the way to get administrative educations. However
it was limited to elite section in the society.
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Common people continued to take education in native languages. According to data collected in
2003, literacy rate in Sri Lanka is 92%.
Business tourism in srilanka:
Many a time, tourism and business go together. A person can go for business purpose and also
visit tourist destinations. Or one can go with tourism motives and once these, might decide to do
some business too. And then businees tours are also a kind of tourism. This section on Business
Tourism deals on the essential information on various topics. You can learn here about banking,
communication, mode of payments and shipping in Sri Lanka.
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(i) funding to improve the overall efficiency and efficacy of the institutional framework of Sri
Lanka Tourism,
(ii) provide essential highly localized tourism related infrastructure services in the East,
(iii) improve and extend the product content and supply chain of the small and medium
entrepreneurs (SMEs) related to the tourism industry.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority(SLTDA) is committed towards expanding
and enhancing Sri Lanka's tourism market. Investment opportunities are rising, even as the
country's political and economical environments stabilise.
Developing enterprises for tourism:
Sri Lanka is committed to developing its tourism industry. The Sri Lanka Tourism
Development Authority (SLTDA) was created in 2005, and today it fosters strong relations
with the local and international tourism industry.
SLTDA's goal is to promote Sri Lanka and its tourism resources to the world. Developing the
current markets and creating new markets is vital and the SLTDA is focused on building
market confidence, ensuring profitability and developing investor confidence amongst its
various stakeholders.
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Developing and planning the markets:
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is committed to developing the
current and potential new markets. Together with the Sri Lankan Government and the local
and international media partners, the SLTDA offers investors various attractive and feasible
trade support schemes and business opportunities.
Currently, a strategic medium-term (10 years) infrastructure and product planning and
development plan has been implemented for the tourism industry. This strategic plan is based
on the market demand for high and mid-end markets. The plan hopes to gain profitability
through better yields, sustain the integrity and value of Sri Lanka's natural, cultural and
human resources, and to ensure the optimum visitor experiences. The SLTDA hopes that the
benefits of the strategic plan will accrue to all communities who are connected with the
tourism industry
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New strategic development plan for srilanka tourism:
Ministry of Economic Development officially launched the Tourism Development Strategy
for the next five years period of 2011-2016 at a grand ceremony held yesterday (05th Sep.) at
the Cinnamon Lakeside hotel. A large gathering of tourism stakeholders including the
industry representatives, diplomats, media and government officials were among those who
graced the occasion and the strategy document was officially handed over by Chairman of Sri
Lanka Tourism to the Economic Development Minister Hon. Basil Rajapaksa who was the
chief guest of the event .
According to the newly launched Tourism Development Strategy, the main target of the
tourism sector in the next five years is to achieve a target number of 2.5 million tourists by
2016 being in line with the January 2010 visionary statement unveiled by Mahinda
Chinthanaya spelling out plans for 2011 tourism development policy including details of
Visit Sri Lanka 2011 initiative. The 5 year master plan Strategy document of Economic
Development Ministry halfway through refers to 2020 plans as envisaged by Finance
Ministry as well.
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The 36-page document puts together the expectations set for the development of tourism
industry in the said time period covering all aspects of infrastructure development,
standardization of products and services, improving the brand awareness and finally gearing
all efforts towards achieving sustainability in the long run as booming sector directly
contributing a large share to Sri Lankas Economic Development. Ministry of Economic
Development is implementing the plan at the correct time to drive attention of all
stakeholders to contribute to achieve the set goals spelt out in the publication focusing plans
and targets until 2020.
The initiatives and policies of the newly launched publication will act as a benchmark for
tourism sector for the next five years to come with the stretched goal of preparing the
industry to move forward to achieve targets specified up to year 2020.
Addressing the gathering at the event Sri Lanka Tourism Chairman,Dr. Godahewa said in his
speech that that the strategy document has clearly put together the expectations of the tourism
industry for the next five years, so that all stakeholders could focus and work together to
achieve the speicified goals. Tourism is a peoples industry as it benefits all. This strategy
document will help align all to be focused on one direction with a common goal,Dr.
Godahewa said.
With a tag line Refreshingly Sri Lanka: The Wonder of Asia and as worlds most treasured
island the specific strategies related to the five year plan are, 1) creating an environment
conducive for tourism;
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2) attracting the right type of tourists; 3) ensuring that departing tourists are happy; 4)
improving domestic tourism and 5) contributing towards improving the global image of Sri
Lanka. The unique selling propositions of destination Sri Lanka are, 1) authenticity, 2)
compactness and 3) diversity.
The document quoting the visit 2011 campaign, says that Sri Lanka Tourism focuses on eight
product categories under the theme 8 wonderful experienced in 8 wonderful days and they
are Beaches (Pristine), Sports and Adventure (Thrills), Heritage sites (Heritage), Mind and
Body wellness (Bliss), Scenic beauty (Scenic), Wild life and nature (Wild), People and
Culture (Essence) and Year round festivals (Festive).
At a time when Sri Lanka Tourism has achieved the target of 500,000 tourists in less than 8
months , the launch of the new tourism development strategy is seen as a welcome sign for
the future of Tourism Industry in Sri Lanka.
Developing and training human resources:
Human resources are our fundamental resource!
The lifeblood of Sri Lanka's tourism industry is its people.
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The people who serve tourism are the country's most attractive and vital force.
Keeping this in mind, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is dedicated
to the development of human resources in the travel and tourism industry.
Currently plans are in place to train potential individuals who would be able to serve in
professional managerial and operational capacities in the industry.
Plans include the setting up of an Institute of Tourism, that is similar to institutes such as
CIMA and CIM, working alongside the public and private sectors in determining the
entry level qualifications for managerial positions, and for providing travel and tourism
training in the travel, tourism and MICE management sectors
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CHAPTER 4 : FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
FINDINGS:
How SAARC tourism of srilanka has developed . Its tourists attractions, food , business tourism Sustainable tourism development New strategic development of tourism Developing and training human resources.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
A common currency between SAARC countries similar to euro. Transport of vehicles between the SAARC region should be hassle free in terms of
logistics and the entry exit procedure should be made user friendly.
Joint promotion on SAARC region as a tourism product at international exhibitions. SAARC visa should be introduced.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
http://www.saarctourism.org/ http://www.saarc-sec.org/areaofcooperation/cat-detail.php?cat_id=49 http://www.saarctourism.org/aboutus.html http://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/ http://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/sri-lanka-food.html
http://www.saarctourism.org/http://www.saarctourism.org/http://www.saarc-sec.org/areaofcooperation/cat-detail.php?cat_id=49http://www.saarc-sec.org/areaofcooperation/cat-detail.php?cat_id=49http://www.saarctourism.org/aboutus.htmlhttp://www.saarctourism.org/aboutus.htmlhttp://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/http://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/http://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/sri-lanka-food.htmlhttp://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/sri-lanka-food.htmlhttp://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/sri-lanka-food.htmlhttp://sri-lanka.saarctourism.org/http://www.saarctourism.org/aboutus.htmlhttp://www.saarc-sec.org/areaofcooperation/cat-detail.php?cat_id=49http://www.saarctourism.org/