Transforming Knuckles Mountain Range into a sustainable tourism model: A comprehensive framework for ecotourism development

Abstract

The Knuckles Mountain Range in Sri Lanka is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has a remarkable combination of biological and cultural features. This paper deals with the problems and possibilities of sustainable tourism in the area by considering community based Ecotourism development to improve the region‘s infrastructure. The research revealed the main barriers to sustainable tourism in this region which stem from the lack of infrastructure, environmental abuse, and poor cooperation between stakeholders. By using sustainable tourism approaches such as the Triple Bottom Line (TBL), the DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, States, Impacts, Responses) model, and the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, this paper presents a model which would sustain the livelihood of the people of the Knuckles Mountain Range area by converting the area into a tourism destination. This model prescribes the development of infrastructure, eco-tourism, local community participation, and policy. This research case elucidated on the importance of resolving the paradox between maintenance of ecological soundness and impactful socio economic activity where the advantages of tourism are maximized but the tourism impact on the unique nature and sociocultural heritage is minimized. The results form a part of ongoing discussions in sustainable mountain tourism development in other parts of the world, providing guidance for regions struggling with the dual issue of tourism development and environmental sustainability.