Dambulla-Sigiriya tourism project launched with USD 30 million ADB loan

The Dambulla-Sigiriya Tourism Sector Development Project was officially launched today (20) in Dambulla-Sigiriya under the patronage of Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Rathnayake.

The work is being implemented under the Sustainable Tourism Sector Development Project (STSDP) with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The ADB has provided a USD 30 million loan for the project. It aims to improve tourism infrastructure, urban services and destination management while developing climate-resilient, accessible and inclusive tourism destinations.

Several sub-projects will be implemented in Dambulla-Sigiriya, including improvements to parking facilities, Sigiriya Wewa, the Sigiriya Museum and open-air theatre, as well as conservation works at Mapagala, Pidurangala and Kaludiya Pokuna. An 11-kilometre Heritage Trail from Ramakele to Talkote will also be developed.

Dambulla-Sigiriya and Trincomalee have been selected for development under the project considering their significant tourism potential.