A special programme is launched to attract the tourists worldwide to the Arugambay Tourism Zone by internationally promoting the surfing at Arugambay beach.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga stated that the Arugambay Tourism Zone is expected to attract the attention of local and foreign tourists through the implementation of promotional programs such as surfing training sessions, surfing competitions and giving publicity on those around the world.
The Government has also focused on the implementation of programs of training workshops to encourage surfers and the Minister hopes to enhance the living standards of those engaged in the tourism field as well as to make the Arugambay tourism zone a tourist hotspot as a whole through the new promotion campaign.
The Arugambay area is being developed as one of the world's leading tourist attractions under the forthcoming Tourism Promotion Process. The Government has allocated Rs. 300 million for the development of the tourism industry in the Eastern Province and has focused on the development of the Arugambay Tourism Zone.
After gazetting of the area as a new tourism zone, a joint committee consisting of representatives from a number of institutions has been appointed to develop the infrastructure in the area.
Under this, the Infrastructure Development Program has been initiated and the identification and planning of areas to be developed has been completed.In addition, steps have been taken to launch a special transport service from Arugambay to regional tourist destinations.
Areas with tourist attractions such as the Muhudu Maha Viharaya, Pottuvil, Panama, and Kumana Birds Sanctuary which are close to the Arugambay Tourism Zone, have been identified for development.The Arugambay beach is known around the world as a water paradise. Although thousands of local and foreign tourists from all over the world flocked to this beach during the Arugambay tourist season which runs from June to October-November, Hon. Minister, Prasanna Ranatunga further stated that immediate steps will be taken to restore the situation that changed with the Covid pandemic.
