- January 7, 2026
- Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
- Madu Ganga
- Galle Fort
- Le Grand Hotel Galle
On 7 January 2026, students from the BSc (Hons) International Tourism, Hospitality and Events programme at BMS Campus set out on an educational tour of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Recognizing the region as one of the country’s premier tourism hotspots, the visit was designed to enhance experiential learning by providing students with direct exposure to world-famous cultural and historical sites. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between classroom concepts and the real-world dynamics of the tourism industry.
The journey began with an in-depth exploration of the Madu Ganga estuary, where students participated in a guided 15-island boat tour. This segment of the trip highlighted the delicate balance between ecology, culture, and community. Key stops included the River Temple, where students observed spiritual heritage, and Cinnamon Island, which offered a look into traditional processing practices. Additionally, students visited a natural fish therapy point to see local livelihoods in action and studied unique mangrove formations at the point where the river meets the Indian Ocean, gaining a deeper understanding of biodiversity and responsible tourism operations.
The focus then shifted to conservation and heritage at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and the iconic Galle Fort. At the hatchery, students observed marine life protection and eco-tourism strategies aimed at preserving biodiversity. In contrast, the visit to Galle Fort allowed students to study the complexities of heritage conservation and community-based tourism. By exploring these sites, students were able to witness the practical application of cultural sustainability and its importance in maintaining global tourism standards.
To provide a comprehensive view of the industry, the tour concluded with a professional look at the luxury sector at Le Grand Hotel, Galle. Students were given a guided tour of the property, focusing on high-end hotel management and the operational standards required in the luxury hospitality market. BMS Campus extends its sincere appreciation to module lecturer Mr. Suranga Tennakoon for his guidance, as well as the organizers and faculty members whose efforts made this valuable educational initiative a success.
