The interconnectivity and exchange between pilgrimage and tourism is anessential part of human travel. Pilgrimage tourism is considered now as a strategy for heritage awakening, deeper experiences and transferring the religiosity into global humanism and spirituality. Travel or pilgrimage for mental peace and to gain knowledge about rich heritage or religious places in the country is an integral part of Indian culture and tradition. This study investigates the issues, challenges, cultural importance and development through pilgrimage tourism. The paper also deals with the features of pilgrimage tourism scenario in Dakshina Kannada, District of Karnataka India. The data for this study were collected from tourists both foreign and local, who engage in pilgrimage tourism activities. Pilgrimage tourists were identified as a key factor in developing pilgrimage tourism. The local tourists are mainly involve in spiritual and religious activities and functions while foreign tourists enjoy recreation and learning about new traditions and customs. Pilgrimage tourism will provide a rational alternative for cultural consciousness and strategy for poverty alleviation.
Culture, India, pilgrimage tourists, tourism, traditions
