POTENTIAL ZONES FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN ANURADHAPURA DISTRICT OF SRI LANKA USING GEOSPATIAL TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Anuradhapura district is a significant region in Sri Lanka known for its historical and cultural importance. This study aimed to spatially identify the areas with greater capacity to promote tourism in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka using Geographic Information System (GIS) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Limited research or planning has been conducted to identify optimal areas for tourism development in the Anuradhapura district. Hence, criteria including land cover, historical and archaeological sites, religious sites, natural attractions, cultural villages, ayurvedic and meditation places, elevation, population density, distance from tank cascades and distance from roads were selected based on experts' preferences and literature. An online survey was conducted to get the perception of the foreign tourists on the different places within the Anuradhapura district. Based on the results of the survey, ranks and weights were assigned for the selected thematic areas. Tourist attraction is high for the cultural sites, historical and archaeological sites and natural attractions. According to GIS based AHP and weighted overlay, 3.98% (285.44 km2) land area of the district falls under highly suitable areas for tourism development which are located in Rambawa, Thalawa, Rajanganaya, Nachchaduwa district secretariat divisions in Anuradhapura in addition to the present famous religious and archaeological sites. Western and southern parts of the district comprise around 63.56% (4559.36 km2) area as moderately appropriate. Therefore, the results of this research can aid in the strategic planning of the development of the tourism industry in Anuradhapura district. Further it is suggested to develop a proper campaign to attract tourists to Anuradhapura by developing associated activities and alleviating the strain on the tourism demand in the highly suitable area.