Riverston, Matale – In a landmark step towards advancing sustainable and adventure-based tourism in Sri Lanka, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe, paid a field visit to the Riverston tourism zone, following an invitation extended by the Knuckles Tourism Circle (KTC), a Destination Management Company (DMC) operating within the Knuckles Mountain Range.
The Knuckles Conservation Range, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its ecological diversity and unspoiled landscapes. Strategically located just one hour from Sigiriya and two hours from Kandy, Riverston lies between two of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourism corridors – Kandy-Dambulla and Ella-Dambulla – offering remarkable potential for positioning as a key tourism hub.
KTC, a public-private initiative comprising hoteliers, tourism service providers, and local entrepreneurs, works in close partnership with government bodies including the Matale District Secretariat, Laggala and Rattota Divisional Secretariats, the Forest Department, the Police Department, and the Urban Development Authority (UDA). Their joint efforts aim to transform Riverston into a model destination for eco and adventure tourism, anchored in community empowerment and environmental stewardship.
Milanka Induruwage, President of the Knuckles Tourism Circle, expressed his appreciation for the Ministry of Tourism’s proactive engagement:
“We are deeply grateful to the Deputy Minister and the Ministry for taking the time to visit Riverston, to witness our efforts on the ground and to provide valuable guidance. This visit reaffirms the Government’s commitment to sustainable tourism development – a vision that is crucial if Sri Lanka is to position itself as an upmarket destination known for authentic, nature-based, and responsible travel experiences.”
Mr. Induruwage also highlighted the importance of striking a careful balance between development and conservation, given Riverston’s unique ecosystem and many endemic species. “We must protect this heritage while enhancing tourism experiences that increase visitor nights and broaden the country’s overall tourism offering,” he emphasized.
Under KTC’s leadership, several conservation-focused initiatives have been launched – including the declaration of plastic-free hiking trails at Riverston Tower and Pitawala Pathana, and regulatory work in collaboration with the Forest Department, Matale District Secretariat, and local divisional authorities to improve visitor management along key trails such as Manigala, Walpolamulla, and Duwili Ella.
KTC has also submitted guidelines to the UDA aimed at controlling unregulated construction, ensuring new developments respect the natural aesthetics of the area. Ministerial support is being sought to enforce these guidelines and preserve the region’s visual and ecological integrity.
Mr. Edirisinghe, Conservation General of the Forest Department, underscored the Department’s role in advancing sustainable tourism, revealing detailed plans for a comprehensive visitor management system that is ready to launch pending funding. He also announced that the department is assessing the Knuckles Region’s eligibility for ‘Forest Bathing’ – a globally recognized wellness tourism product that could elevate Riverston’s international appeal.
“Forest Bathing is gaining traction as a premium experience in global tourism markets. Riverston’s rich biodiversity and serene forests make it a strong candidate. This could become a significant newoffering within Sri Lanka’s eco-tourism portfolio,” Mr. Edirisinghe added.
The visit brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including Ms Deepthi Wasalage, NPP MP of the Rattota seat, Nishantha Edirisinghe, Conservator General of Forests, senior Forest Department officials, UDA, Matale District Secretariat, Laggala and Rattota DS offices; the Police Department; and tourism operators from across the region.
Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe commended the efforts of the Knuckles Tourism Circle.and all partnering agencies, and highlighted the strong commitment of the Government to supporting sustainable tourism development across the country. He emphasized that initiatives like those in Riverston are vital to uplifting Sri Lanka’s tourism offering, increasing visitor nights, and positioning the country as a premier upmarket destination.
