ABSTRACT

                        Studies that examined the correlation between religion tourism and economic development of Bundelkhand region in India had not been reported. This is despite the massive influx of foreign religion tourists to India in particular to seek faith adventures and solution for spiritual challenges. The article determines the perception of Indians, with emphasis on inhabitant of Bundelkhand  about the concept of religion tourism and the extent it economically impacted their regions and people of community. It also examines the relationship between religion tourism and dimensions of economic development in Bunelkhand region of India. As far as tourism particularly religious tourism of Bundelkhand region is concerned, the places like Khajuraho, Orchha, Chitrakoot, Jhansi, Gwalior, are the main tourist attractions of the region where foreign tourists as well as indigenous tourists regularly visit for religious and non-religious reasons. Besides these places, there are many sites throughout this region which have remained unexplored. Baruasagar, Shivpuri, Datia, Sonagir, Devgarh, Mahoba, Kalinjar, Panna, Samthar, Morena, Jabalpur, Sagar & Chanderi are such unexplored places which will be become treasure provided they are accorded more coverage. Their share in local economy will increase as a result of tourism marketing and packages. The region is very rustic and rudimentary and this can also be made as an attraction for the foreign tourists who wish to explore the original unpolluted areas of India. The contribution of these destinations in local tourism economy and domestic tourist arrivals is important. Bundelkhand region has lot of cultural and natural tourism resources. However, we fail to get optimum output due to lake of proper advertising management and marketing. The study reveals that the study area of Bundelkhand possesses excellent potential for tourism, most of which even today is virgin and unexplored. The major attractions being in terms of pleasure tourism & religious tourism. The area is filled with historical heritage and attracts tourists who are interested in history, monuments and nature.

Keywords: Religious Tourism, Economic Dimensions, Faith- based Destination, and Bundelkhand Residents.