Evolving Pilgrimage Tourism in Bakreswar, West Bengal: A Way to Sustainable Rural Society
Abstract: Development of tourism is one of the solutions to reduce poverty in the rural areas. Pilgrimage tourism has huge potential in West Bengal. The largest number of Shakti Pithas are located in Birbhum; one among them is Bakreswar. This study adopting a descriptive approach highlights the challenges and strategizes measures for tourism development in Bakreswar. Hundred respondents were interviewed randomly based on interview schedules during March-April 2023. The profiles of the respondents were shown by univariate distribution. To find out the association between development of rural economy and standard of living chi-square statistic was conducted. Also, SWOT analysis aided in strategizing the plan for development of tourism in the region. The results show that there is a significant relationship between development of infrastructure and increase in the number of visitors in Bakreswar. Furthermore, the respondents reported a positive impact of tourism on the local economy. Sufficient government planning, policies and regulations, satisfactory understanding, expertise of tour operators, broader issues of eradicating overall apathy are some common ways that can boost the local economy.
Keywords: Birbhum, infrastructure, livelihood, management, Shakti Pithas
How to Cite?: Dr. Monorisha Mukhopadhyay, "Evolving Pilgrimage Tourism in Bakreswar, West Bengal: A Way to Sustainable Rural Society", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 446-451, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26705232213, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26705232213