Big Five Tours & Expeditions, a World Travel & Tourism Council member, is spearheading initiatives to revitalize Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The company’s efforts seek to support the country’s economic recovery through sustainable tourism practices and cultural preservation.
“Sri Lanka is a case study in the power of tourism. I had the pleasure of meeting the Sri Lankan ambassador to the United States. His story and the commitment to socially responsible tourism is a model for others to follow,” said Ashish Sanghrajka, President of Big Five Tours & Expeditions, in a press statement. “We spoke at length about where Sri Lanka was, just a few years ago, vs. today, and the progress made. Through our track record of 50+ years at Big Five, I have always believed the magic number in terms of tourism as a percentage of GDP is 10. At that level, there are direct correlations to stability, economically and politically and Sri Lanka is proof of it.”
Big Five’s Focus on Culture and Conservation
Volunteering in the Seagrass Restoration Project. (Photo by Music of the Ceylon Africans )Tourism plays a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s economy. The World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2023 Economic Impact Report indicates that the sector contributed 12.6 percent to the country’s GDP in 2019. Despite pandemic-related setbacks, this figure has rebounded to over 9 percent in 2023, demonstrating the industry’s resilience.
Big Five also showcases Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage through unique local experiences. These include exposure to Manja music, a tradition of the Sri Lanka Kaffirs in Puttalam and Batik art in Balangoda. These programs offer your clients insights into lesser-known aspects of Sri Lankan culture and history.
The Balangoda region is significant for its archaeological findings, but it is also home to artisans preserving traditional block print and Batik techniques. By incorporating these experiences into their itineraries, Big Five supports local communities and promotes cultural preservation.
For more information, visit bigfive.com.
