Socio-Economic Impact of Spiritual and Religious Tourism in India

Abstract

This paper analyse the Spirituality and Religious practice and its relation with tourism in the Indian society. Spiritual and religious tourism is not a new concept it has been existed in society since dawn of civilization. It is one of the earliest forms of common tourism. People had travelled for religious practice and different kind of other religious motivations. There are many examples in history that shows Saints (Sadhus) and sometimes kings also move from place to place in the search of spirituality. Since ancient times India has been the center for religious, cultural and spiritual activities because it has several beliefs, strong foundation of ancient culture, various religion and their own religious practice and spiritual beliefs. In Hindu religion there is over Three million Gods, Goddess and many religious places where every Hindu wants to visit once in their life. Religion is not only about religious beliefs but it also focused on rituals, ceremonies, philosophies, manner, ethics etc. It teaches every Indian the way of life. There is a famous concept of “Tirth Yatra” for Hindus and “Haj Yatra” for Muslims which motivates Indians for religious and spiritual tourism more. So, there are many concepts in Indian society which directly connected to religious tourism. According to Tourism Industry in India, 60% of travel packages were made for religious purpose. This data shows the importance of religious tourism in Indian economy. That is why this paper is an attempt to know the socio-economic impact of spiritual and religious tourism in Indian society.

Keywords: Religion, Rituals, Spirituality, Tourism, Motivation

View PDF