Shanmugarajah, . R2021-11-022021-11-022015UWU/HTE/15/0051http://www.erepo.lib.uwu.ac.lk/bitstream/handle/123456789/7521/HTE%2015%20051-07042021144311.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=yTourism industry plays a prominent role in the economic development of many developing countries. Sri Lanka is a booming tourist destination with unique attributes, Year by year tourism is growing continuously, all authorities given top priority for sustainable tourism activities. Sustainable tourism is a way to minimize the negative tourism impacts and access the resources in an effective manner. This study aims to assess the support of local residents for sustainable tourism development in Trincomalee region. Main focus of this research is to identify existing resident support, how tourism impacts influence the support behavior and establishing the ways to accelerate sustainable tourism. A sample of 20 local residents was drawn using convenience sampling. Primary data were collected by using structured interview. Based on the information given, the researcher has developed the research. The researcher has used thematic analysis method to analyze the data using, Microsoft Excel 2010 software. The fmdings reveals that more favorable perceptions of the economic, socio-cultural and environmental impacts lead to greater support. Knowledge about tourism, resident-visitor interaction and residents place image influence the existing resident support then social, economic and environmental impacts influence resident support behavior finally adequate government and stakeholder participation helps to accelerate Trincomalee as a sustainable tourist destination. It is a clear statement that the role of the residence is necessary to support tourism development and maintain its robust growth. Residents are willing to support tourist development, necessary authorities should take proper actions for further development. Key words: Sustainability, Tourism, Resident support, Tourism development, Tourism impactsenHospitality, Tourism and Events Management degree programme (HTE)Thesis