Geodiversity as a Driver of Tourism: A study of Sri Lankan Geological Heritage

Sri Lanka's geodiversity emerges as a powerful driver of tourism, significantly influencing tourist motivations, perceptions, and experiences. This study reveals that unique geological features such as Adam’s Peak, Horton Plains, and Sigiriya not only attract visitors but also foster strong emotional connections, with themes of awe and wonder prominently featured in tourist narratives. While pre-visit awareness remains a gap, geodiversity enables diverse tourism activities, from adventure to cultural exploration, thereby diversifying Sri Lanka's tourism offerings and promoting sustainable development. The research underscores the potential for geotourism to attract niche markets while emphasizing the need for improved geoconservation practices, targeted educational initiatives, and stakeholder collaboration. By aligning with global sustainable goals, Sri Lanka can position itself as a premier geotourism destination, balancing economic benefits with ecological and cultural preservation.

Perera, P. K. U., & Wasantha, H. L. N. (2025). Geodiversity as a Driver of Tourism: A study of Sri Lankan Geological Heritage. International Journal on Recent Trends in Business and Tourism, 09(01), 43–57. https://doi.org/10.31674/ijrtbt.2025.v09i01.005