To mark World Tourism Day, the National Tourist Drivers Association organized a series of special programs near the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The initiative aimed to attract more foreign tourists to Sri Lanka, enhance hospitality practices among tourism stakeholders, create awareness about key travel destinations, and offer tourists an authentic taste of local culture. The event also featured a countryside bicycle tour for visiting tourists.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag and the singing of the National Anthem, following a traditional welcome where distinguished local guests and tourists were presented with sheaves of betel leaves. Foreign tourists participated in the ceremonial lighting of the traditional oil lamp and were served king coconut, milk rice, and traditional Sri Lankan sweetmeats such as Kavum and Kokis.
The tourists enjoyed vibrant Kandyan and Low-Country traditional dance performances, took photos with the dancers, and explored nearby villages on bicycles.
Speaking at the event, the President of the National Tourist Drivers Association stated that the program was organized on short notice as a national-level event. Foreign tourists who attended expressed great satisfaction with Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, praising the warm hospitality of the locals and the pleasant atmosphere prepared for travelers.
