With its rich cultural and religious heritage, Sri Lanka has emerged as a
prominent destination for religious tourism. Kataragama Sacred City, nestled in the
heart of Sri Lanka, stands out as a significant multicultural religious tourist site,
attracting pilgrims and travellers from various parts of the world. This study delves into
the challenges encountered by accommodation service providers in Kataragama,
aiming to enhance understanding of the unique intricacies involved in catering to
religious tourists in this sacred city. This research employed a qualitative methodology,
including in-depth interviews with accommodation service providers to collect specific
information. The study used thematic analysis to identify several major challenges that
these providers face, such as the impact of price mafias, cultural awareness, limited
government support, accessibility issues, and inadequate infrastructure and sanitation.
The research examined how these challenges interact and affect service standards,
customer satisfaction, and the overall travel experience. Furthermore, the study
analyzed the strategies utilized by accommodation service providers to overcome these
obstacles. It highlighted innovative methods, collaborative projects, technological
advancements, and the establishment of recreational activities to enhance tourists'
satisfaction and ensure the sustainable growth of the tourism industry. The findings
offer valuable insights for the tourism sector, decision-makers, and local communities,
providing actionable recommendations for addressing the identified challenges. By
fostering a shared understanding of the difficulties faced by accommodation service
providers in reverent destinations like the bSacred City of Kataragama, stakeholders
can work together to build a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry that
promotes cultural preservation, economic growth, and memorable experiences for both
pilgrims and visitors.
Keywords: Challenges, Kataragama sacred city, Religious tourism.
