Overview and Objectives

The primary objective and the goal of this project is to contribute to the conservation of the wetland eco-system through creating awareness about the importance of this ecosystem through recreational activities (Boat rides) and simultaneously contribute to the livelihood of the local community members who are the members of the organization by engaging them in boat rides as guides, boat operators and administrative staff.

Contact information : Walawa Nadee Ecotourism Association

Mailing address : Pattiyawaraya Rd, Waduruppa, Ambalantota, Sri Lanka

Contact information : Sirisoma Edirisinghe - Chairman

Telephone : + 94 60 2481076

Mobile : + (94 715) 379906

Nandasena Randobage – Secretary : + (94 776) 798514

An introduction to the project and contribution to the tourism Industry

The project site has recognized as an internationally important ecosystem for conservation due to the high bio-diversity. This potential tourism area lays close and parallel to the southern coastal belt.

"Waduruppa Bio-diversity Conservation Society", A community based organization was formed 07 years ago with the objective of conservation of the biodiversity and ecosystem of the area. The ecotourism wing of the main organization is "Walawa Nadee Ecotourism Association.

The extent of the boat ride is from the river mouth of Walawe River called Pattya waraya (Harbour) to Godawaya area for a distance of 3.5 km. Either side of the river is rich with different kinds of mangrove species, other flora, and fauna- including 51 species of birds and mammals such as monkeys and fruit bats. The two hour tour begins in late afternoon. At present our organization facilitates the interested visitors to boat rides in the river, provide local food and herbal drinks during tours. The Organization has already developed collaboration with local women who provide these additional services for visitors such as supplying food. The Out Board Boat Motors used by the organizion has been donated by Care Organization, Sri Lanka. A pier and the Visitor Centre has been built by the Mercy Corp. MC also provided the WNEO with a good number of life jackets and binoculars so that tourists could take the boat tour safely.

From revenues received, payments will be made to staff and for purchase of fuel for the trip. After this, 30% of funds will be deposited in account and saved for the business. 70% will be used for social welfare of the Waduruppa community, such as training and awareness programs.

Contribution to tourism :

This location is an ideal place to study about mangroves. Scenic beauty of this place is very high and geographically important as this is the place where Walawe river meets sea. On historical aspects, Gadawaya is regarded as one of the ancient Naval base and a sea port. With all those aspects this could be perhaps the most important and scenic place in Hambantota District with rich bio-diversity.

Many migratory bird species could be seen in this area, along with resident Sea-eagles and hawks that nest here, peacocks, and waterfowls etc.

With all these natural and historical aspects, this project will benefit various categories of visitors who study environment, who admires natural and scenic beauty and who love to enjoy recreation activities. This is the only Community Based Model Ecotourism Project established and operative in the Hambantota District. This Project is also supported by Hambantota District Chamber of Commerce.

Aims & objectives of the project :

Sri Lanka Ecotourism Foundation (SLEF), pioneer national Ecotourism Society of Sri Lanka is supporting WNEO in Training of Community Members and Marketing of the Project

Email : SLEF : sleco@sltnet.lk

Phone : 0777 631334

Website : www.ecotourismsrilanka.net