Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, with its iconic rock fortress, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is being developed as the island nation’s first sustainable tourism destination. Of course, visitors have a part to play as well and here are some ways to ensure your adventure leaves a positive footprint.
Preserve the Natural Environment
Tread lightly as you explore the wonders of the area and enjoy the many things to do in Sigiriya be it making the ascent to the summit of the fortress or exploring the idyllic natural landscapes. Pack reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics. Dispose of any trash responsibly and be mindful not to damage plant life or disturb wildlife. Leave only footprints, take only memories!
Stay at an Eco-Friendly Hotel
When searching for a place to stay, pick an eco-friendly Sigiriya hotel that has adopted sustainable practices. Look for a property that blends seamlessly with nature, perhaps incorporating water gardens and modern water harvesting systems that echo the ancient ingenuity of Sigiriya Rock. It should also offer the option for activities that allow you to experience this destination more sustainably.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Reducing your carbon footprint can start even before you arrive by choosing a greener airline and a more direct route to Sri Lanka. Once here, you can opt for group tours organised by your hotel to minimise transportation emissions; also, conserve water and electricity in your room. Some hotels offer eco-friendly activities like cycling tours or guided nature walks including a visit to a local village where you can witness sustainable traditional living firsthand.
Support Local Communities
Responsible travel also focuses on those who depend on the environment as well. With that in mind, support local communities by purchasing souvenirs directly from artisans and shopping at local stores. Choose restaurants that source organically grown ingredients from Sri Lankan growers and producers. This not only reduces your meal's carbon footprint but also injects your tourist dollars directly into the local economy.
' fill='%23359391'%3e %3cpath d='M46.1538462%2c43.5714286 L41.5%2c50 L36.8461538%2c43.5714286 L36.8670256%2c43.5714286 C36.3173077%2c42.7142857 36%2c41.6851429 36%2c40.5714286 C36%2c37.4854286 38.4535641%2c35 41.5%2c35 C44.5464359%2c35 47%2c37.4854286 47%2c40.5714286 C47%2c41.6851429 46.6826923%2c42.7142857 46.1329744%2c43.5714286 L46.1538462%2c43.5714286 Z M41.4294872%2c39 C40.6150641%2c39 39.9487179%2c39.675 39.9487179%2c40.5 C39.9487179%2c41.325 40.6150641%2c42 41.4294872%2c42 C42.2439103%2c42 42.9102564%2c41.325 42.9102564%2c40.5 C42.9102564%2c39.675 42.2439103%2c39 41.4294872%2c39 L41.4294872%2c39 Z' id='Location-white'%3e%3c/path%3e %3c/g%3e %3c/svg%3e)
