Integrated Heritage Tourism and Regional Development: A Case of Lothal and Surrounding Villages

Kuldeep J. Patel

Abstract: Lothal, a prominent site of the Indus Valley Civilization, holds significant archaeological and cultural value yet remains underutilized as a heritage tourism destination. This paper explores the role of integrated heritage tourism in fostering regional development, using Lothal and its surrounding villages in Gujarat as a case study. A mixed - methods approach involving spatial analysis, field surveys, stakeholder interviews, and policy review was adopted. The findings highlight infrastructural deficiencies, limited community involvement, and weak tourism marketing as key challenges. The study proposes strategic interventions, including capacity building, improved connectivity, community - based tourism models, and alignment with national heritage policies such as HRIDAY and ASI guidelines. The recommendations aim to transform Lothal into a heritage - led development model that balances conservation with socio - economic growth.

Keywords: Heritage Tourism, Regional Development, Lothal, Sustainable Planning, Community Participation, Indus Valley Civilization, Cultural Preservation