Sprucing up tourism in parallel to Deyata Kirula

Saturday, 4 February 2012 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lanka Tourism Develo-pment Authority (SLTDA) will launch a set of programs to uplift the industry in the Anuradhapura District in conjunction with the Deyata Kirula exhibition held in the said area.

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa will inaugurate the main event under the organised list of programs by launching the renovating and modernisation of the Anuradhapura National Holiday Resort. The resort will undergo transformation and construction at a cost of Rs. 300 million and will add 80 rooms to its portfolio.

The other programs scheduled to be held are an educational camp for teachers and students from 10 schools in the district, a three-day special mobile service and special workshops to promote the food in the district.

The special tourism mobile service will be held on three days starting 6 February under the direction of Sri Lanka Tourism Chairman Nalaka Godahewa. Owners of hotels, guest houses and restaurants will be provided with services and information they require during the special service. Other interested parties will be able to receive information on tourism and related services as well.

Sri Lanka Tourism and Hotel Management will conduct a workshop on popularising Raja Rata cuisine internationally and launch a book on the subject as well. After being trained in the hospitality trade and hotel management, 100 rural men and women in the Anuradhapura District will be given employment in tourist hotels.

As a part of the program, 25 water tanks will be donated to places of worship in the district. Construction of toilets in the Thanthrimale sacred area for local and international pilgrims is also part of the development program.