TOURISM ENHANCEMENT THROUGH HOMESTAY SCHEMES: A CASE STUDY OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

This study investigates the impacts of homestay tourism on local economic development, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism practices in Himachal Pradesh, India. Employing a quantitative methodology, data were collected from 600 respondents, including homestay owners, local vendors, tourists, and community members across various districts known for homestay tourism, such as Tirthan Valley, Kullu, Manali, and Dharamshala. The study found that homestay tourism significantly boosts local economies by increasing household incomes and creating employment opportunities. Specifically, the average income increase for local residents was 25%, and the employment rate due to homestay tourism was 83%. The study revealed that homestay tourism plays a crucial role in cultural preservation by facilitating high participation levels (80%) in cultural activities such as local festivals and traditional dances. The homestays promote sustainable tourism practices, with high implementation rates of eco-friendly measures, including waste management (70%), renewable energy use (60%), and water conservation (80%). However, the study also identified several challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of training, and marketing difficulties homestay operators face. These challenges must be addressed through improved policy support, infrastructure development, and comprehensive training programs. Despite these limitations, the findings underscore the multifaceted benefits of homestay tourism, making it a valuable model for sustainable community development. The study recommends expanding the geographical scope of future research, incorporating mixed methods to capture nuanced experiences, focusing on long-term impacts, leveraging technology, and exploring social implications to provide a more comprehensive understanding of homestay tourism.