Dark tourism as a revival strategy for tsunami-affected sites in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Author Identifier (ORCID)

Madura Thivanka Pathirana: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8784-3833

Upuli Sachithra Warnakula: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3856-0976

Abstract

Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant coastal allure, has emerged as a significant dark tourism destination in the after-math of the devastating 2004 tsunami. This chapter explores the potential of dark tourism as a socioeconomic revival strategy for tsunami-affected areas, with a focus on Hikkaduwa’s community-led remembrance centers and memorial sites. Employing qualitative research, insights from 48 participants—including community members, Destination Management Company (DMC) managers, and government officials—highlight the motivations, challenges, and opportunities associated with leveraging dark tourism. The findings reveal that dark tourism not only preserves the memory of the tsunami but also provides sustainable economic opportunities for local communities, fostering resilience and cultural preservation. Key themes include the importance of community involvement, eco-friendly infrastructure, and innovative approaches such as interactive digital exhibits and storytelling tours. However, challenges such as funding constraints, marketing barriers, and policy implementation issues necessitate strategic interventions and collaboration among stakeholders. This chapter advocates for a holistic approach to dark tourism, integrating ethical considerations and sustainable practices to balance remembrance with economic development. By positioning Hikkaduwa within Sri Lanka’s broader tourism strategy, this chapter presents a replicable model for utilizing dark tourism to revitalize disaster-affected regions globally. This interdisciplinary study contributes to the evolving discourse on ethical tourism, demonstrating how dark tourism can transform sites of tragedy into platforms for reflection, education, and community empowerment while maintaining the dignity and authenticity of the affected areas.

Document Type

Book Chapter

Date of Publication

1-1-2025

Publication Title

Emerald Handbook of International Dark Tourism

Publisher

Emerald

School

School of Business and Law

Comments

Pathirana, M. T., Warnakula, U. S., & Kelaniyage, T. V. (2025). Dark tourism as a revival strategy for tsunami-affected sites in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka. In Emerald handbook of international dark tourism (pp. 315–329). Emerald. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80592-501-920251018

Copyright

subscription content

First Page

315

Last Page

329

Link to Full Text

Share

 
COinS
 

Link to publisher version (DOI)

10.1108/978-1-80592-501-920251018