Evaluating the Technical Feasibility of Introducing Thalassotherapy to Promote Tourism in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka

Thalassotherapy, derived from the Greek words "Thalassa" (sea) and "therapeia" (treatment), is the therapeutic use of seawater and marine resources, such as algae, mud, and sand, for health and wellness. This practice has gained significant traction in Europe, particularly in France, where it is integrated into both medical and wellness treatments. Although Sri Lanka is renowned for its rich wellness tourism offerings, including Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation, a pilot survey of 30 Ayurveda practitioners across Sri Lanka revealed a notable absence of thalassotherapy practices using seawater. This indicates a market gap for this wellness service. Therefore, this research adopts a feasibility assessment framework (FAF) based on the Project Domain Framework (PDF) to evaluate the technical feasibility of introducing Thalasso Therapy in southern Sri Lanka, taking into account essential environmental and infrastructural requirements. A systematic approach was employed, incorporating a preliminary investigation, reference standard assessments, Geographic Information System (GIS)-based site selection, and field verification. The findings indicate that the three locations identified (Yala, Dickwella, and Koggala) possess the necessary environmental and seawater conditions to support thalassotherapy, with some modifications required. The Southern Province of Sri Lanka has strong potential for Thalassotherapy-based tourism. Furthermore, Yala is the most suitable location, whereas Dikwella can be improved by implementing pollution-control measures. 
Koggala currently does not meet the required standards, but can be developed in the long term with proper interventions. The findings of this research have implications in introducing Thalasso Therapy to the Sri Lankan bundle of wellness tourism products.