Community Based Tourism-with special focus on Homestays

Community based tourism (CBT) can be one way of creating a more sustainable tourism industry. CBT development is characterized as a form of locally situated development that uses tourism to generate economic, social, and cultural benefits within a community. This process occurs through increased community participation in decision making and the sustainable development of both natural and cultural resources. Homestays are one such means through which CBT is being encouraged. This paper focuses on the various dimensions of CBT with special reference to Homestays. Homestay tourism is a rapidly growing niche market, utilized by an increasing number of domestic and international tourists. The paper explores the importance of homestays in Tourism with special reference to the homestays at Orchha (M.P.)