Role of Host Population in developing Holistic Heritage Tourism � A Case Analysis of the temple city Bhubaneswar

Abstract

This study highlights the role of the host population in terms of Holistic Heritage Tourism. As per the present day needs there has been a focus shift from just preserving and conserving to a more integrated approach. The holistic heritage tourism development helps in benefitting the social well-being, especially in improving the personal identities for which it becomes a requisite for modern day preservation practice. The temple city of Bhubaneswar has a huge potential for holistic heritage tourism and for developing it holistically, the role of the host population is crucial. Exploring the host population perception in terms of the city level development and community level development is important as it affects their attitude towards heritage tourism. In this study, further the questions were based on two broad categories city level that was related to the development of the city and community level that was related to the host population benefits associated with holistic heritage tourism development.  They were further sub-divided into socio-cultural, economic and environmental perceptions to have a deep insight about the host populations keenness regarding holistic heritage tourism. A sample of 200 people were taken through random sampling technique. From the data collected, the interpretation was made through factor analysis. The study reveals that the host population role is a significant one in terms of holistic heritage tourism.