Wayamba tourism ups its game

 By Cheranka Mendis

A three-day tourism awareness event organised by Wayamba Development Authority comes to an end today, having attracted more than 200 people from the area on the first two days.

The event, held in conjunction with World Tourism Day celebrations, took the same line as the global theme of ‘Linking Cultures’ and presented almost 15 stalls depicting local cultural diversity.

Wayamba Development Authority Director General Wasantha Premathilake told the Daily FT that the event featured an assortment of cultures and traditions which are part of the local heritage.

“We have organised the event on the global theme of ‘Linking Cultures,’ and taken on a more local note. The stalls hold important aspects of local culture and we have brought into light old and traditional methods that were used for day-to-affairs,” Premathilake said.

Biscuits made from lotus seeds to other food items and rare spices were on show. A mobile exhibition of archaeology was put up at the premises along with stalls on life saving and village life.

A special stall featuring Veddahs, where members from the Veddah community showcased their lifestyle and performed traditional songs, etc., was a key attraction.

Premathilake said: “We have prepared cultural events to take place in the evenings. There will be various dance items and such performances from those in the area as well as from neighbouring towns and cities. Two special performances will be those from the Veddah community and the Kaffers who reside closely.”

The three-day exhibition was held in the adjoining premises of the newly-built Tourist Comfort Centre and Information Centre in Wayamba. The brainchild of Premathilake, the two centres were launched in February this year.

Constructed within six months with an investment of Rs. 35 million, the Comfort Centre boasts all facilities and services for travellers and tourists.

The centre houses amenities such as money exchanging, a wooden handicraft gift shop, restaurants, banking facilities, clean washrooms, a local sweetmeat shop, a restaurant and even a mini spa.

“We hope to make a bigger spa at the back and more features such as an aquarium, kiddies’ corner and lounge for tourists within the next few months. The cost for these is estimated at an approximate Rs. 5 million,” he said.

The Information Centre offers all information on Wayamba such as the must-see attractions, hotel and accommodation facilities, etc.

“Wayamba is increasingly becoming popular as a tourist destination. We are aware that for the sustainability of this interest, more things must be done. Accommodation issues are the worst. A tourist hotel school is also in the plan to train skilled workers.”