INSTITUTE OF HOTEL

MANAGEMENT
CATERING TECHNOLOGY AND
APPLIED NUTRITION
Project Report submitted to IHM Meerut
Topic
Rural tourism- A new phenomenon
Shankho Chakraborty
Roll Number
2041302074
Course
B.Sc HHA

Research Guide

Mr. Abhishek Charles Peter

INSTITUTE OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT CATERING
TECHNOLOGY & APPLIED NUTRITION MEERUT
 Declaration

I declare that the project title ‘Rural Touirsm- A new phenomenon ’ submitted by
me for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Administration
program is the record of work carried out by me under the guidance of
Mr. Abhishek Charles Peter he information provided in this research is not
selfmade and has reference to it.

-Shankho Chakraborty

Date of Examination;……………..

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

(Name, Designation & Address) (Name, Designation & Address)

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

"I have taken efforts in this project. However, it would not have been
possible without the kind support and help of Mr. Abhishek Charles Peter I am highly
indebted for his guidance and constant
supervision as well as for providing necessary information regarding the
project & also for his support in completing the project.

I would like to express my gratitude towards my teachers for their kind

cooperation and encouragement which help me in completion of this
project
I would like to express my special gratitude and thanks to Mr. Sanjay Kashyap
For giving me such attention and time.

( Shankho Chakraborty)
 INDEX

Chapter 1 • Introduction
• Objective

Chapter 2 Review of Literature

• Origin
Chapter 3 Methodology
Chapter 4 Conclusion
Chapter 5 Suggestion
Chapter 6 Bibliography
Chapter 7 Survey Questions
 Introduction

Rural tourism has a high potential to stimulate local economic growth

and social change because of its complementarity with other economic
activities, its contribution to GDP and job creation, and its capacity to
promote the dispersal of demand in time (fight seasonality) and along a
wider territory.

UNWTO understands Rural Tourism as "a type of tourism activity in

which the visitor’s experience is related to a wide range of products
generally linked to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle /
culture, angling and sightseeing.

Rural Tourism activities take place in non-urban (rural) areas with the
following characteristics: i) low population density, ii) landscape and
land-use dominated by agriculture and forestry and iii) traditional social
structure and lifestyle".
The sustainability of tourism in rural areas will only be successful if a
comprehensive, inclusive planning strategy is adopted and
implemented based on a multi-action and multi-stakeholder
participatory approach. The UNWTO Recommendations on Tourism and
Rural Development, approved by the 24th session of the UNWTO
General Assembly (A/RES/732(XXIV), aim to support governments at
various levels, as well as the private sector and the international
community in developing tourism in rural territories in a way that
contributes to inclusive, sustainable and resilient development.
Rural tourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting rural areas,
including villages, small towns, and the countryside, to experience local
cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. It allows visitors to interact with the
local community and learn about their way of life, customs, and history.

Rural tourism is popular among those seeking a break from the hustle
and bustle of city life, as it provides a peaceful and tranquil
environment. It is also an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty
of rural areas, such as mountains, rivers, forests, and wildlife.

There are many types of rural tourism activities that visitors can engage
in, such as hiking, cycling, fishing, camping, horseback riding, and
wildlife watching. Additionally, visitors can participate in cultural
activities such as traditional music and dance performances, local
festivals, and culinary experiences.

Rural tourism has the potential to benefit both visitors and the local
community. It can create job opportunities for locals, promote the
preservation of local traditions and culture, and help to improve the
local economy.

Overall, rural tourism offers a unique and authentic experience for

visitors while providing an opportunity to support and learn from rural
Rural tourism refers to travel and leisure activities that take place in
non-urban areas, typically located outside of major cities or suburban
areas. It involves visiting rural areas for recreational purposes and
experiencing the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and lifestyle of rural
communities.

Rural tourism offers a unique and authentic experience that allows

tourists to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with
nature. It can involve activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing,
camping, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. Rural tourism
can also involve experiencing local traditions, crafts, and culinary
offerings.

Rural tourism is often seen as a way to promote sustainable tourism, as

it can support local economies and preserve the cultural and
environmental heritage of rural areas. It can also help to diversify the
tourism industry and offer alternative sources of income for rural
communities.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in rural tourism,

particularly among urban and suburban residents who are looking for a
break from their busy lives and a chance to experience something new
and different.
 Objectives

Here are five possible short objectives of rural tourism as a new

phenomenon:

To promote economic development in rural areas by creating new

opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs, such as lodging
providers, tour guides, and farmers who can sell their products to
tourists.

To preserve and showcase rural heritage and traditions, such as local

crafts, cuisine, and cultural practices, which may be at risk of
disappearing in a rapidly changing world.

To provide educational and recreational opportunities for visitors to

learn about and engage with nature and the environment, including
activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and ecotourism.

To foster social and cultural exchange between urban and rural

communities, creating opportunities for dialogue and understanding
between different ways of life and perspectives.
To contribute to sustainable development by promoting responsible
and environmentally conscious tourism practices that minimize
negative impacts on the natural and cultural resources of rural areas.

Review From Literature

Rural tourism has gained increasing attention in recent years as a new

phenomenon in the tourism industry. The concept of rural tourism
refers to tourism activities that take place in non-urban areas, including
activities such as agricultural, nature-based tourism, and cultural
tourism. In this literature review, we will examine the recent research
on rural tourism, including its definition, impacts, and challenges.

Definition of Rural Tourism:

Rural tourism is a type of tourism that takes place in non-urban areas,
and it has been defined in different ways by scholars. According to Getz
and Page (2016), rural tourism refers to "tourism activities that take
place in rural areas, including farm-based tourism, nature-based
tourism, and cultural tourism." Meanwhile, Sharpley and Telfer (2014)
defined rural tourism as "tourism in rural areas, which can include
activities such as visiting heritage sites, participating in outdoor
activities, and experiencing local culture."

Impacts of Rural Tourism:

Rural tourism has both positive and negative impacts on the local
communities and environments. On the positive side, rural tourism can
provide economic benefits to rural communities by creating jobs,
generating income, and increasing local spending. Rural tourism can
also help preserve cultural heritage and promote local products, which
can help promote sustainable development. On the negative side, rural
tourism can cause environmental degradation if not managed properly,
as well as socio-cultural impacts such as overcrowding, increased crime
rates, and changes to local customs and traditions.

Challenges of Rural Tourism:

Rural tourism faces various challenges that affect its sustainability and
success. These challenges include inadequate infrastructure, lack of
funding, limited marketing and promotion, poor regulation and
governance, and competition from other destinations. In addition, the
COVID-19 pandemic has further impacted rural tourism, with many
rural areas suffering from reduced demand and income due to travel
restrictions and social distancing measures.

Rural tourism is a type of tourism that takes place in rural areas, usually
in the countryside or in small towns. It is becoming increasingly popular
as people seek to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and
enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience.
1. A literature review of rural tourism reveals that the concept of rural
tourism is not new and has been studied extensively over the past few
decades. The following are some of the key findings from the literature:

2. Rural tourism can have positive economic impacts on rural areas,

including job creation, income generation, and increased local
spending. However, it can also have negative impacts such as over-
tourism, loss of cultural identity, and environmental degradation.

3. Community involvement is essential for the success of rural tourism.

Engaging local communities in the planning and development of
tourism activities can help to ensure that tourism benefits are shared
more equitably and that negative impacts are minimized.

4. Rural tourism is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Different types of

rural tourism can be developed, including agri-tourism, nature-based
tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism, among others. The
type of tourism that is most appropriate for a particular area depends
on a range of factors, including the natural and cultural resources
available, local infrastructure, and community preferences.

5. Rural tourism can also have important social impacts. It can help to
promote intercultural understanding and tolerance, provide
opportunities for cultural exchange, and support the preservation of
traditional ways of life.
6. Marketing and promotion are important for the success of rural
tourism. Effective marketing can help to attract visitors to rural areas
and showcase the unique and authentic experiences that are available.

Overall, the literature suggests that rural tourism can be a valuable tool
for economic development and cultural preservation in rural areas.
However, careful planning and management are essential to ensure
that tourism benefits are maximized and negative impacts are
minimized.

In summary, the literature on rural tourism suggests that it can play an

important role in promoting sustainable rural development, creating
employment opportunities, preserving local culture and traditions, and
enhancing environmental conservation efforts. However, careful
management is required to ensure that rural tourism creates positive
rather than negative impacts on rural communities and their habitat
Rural tourism has gained significant attention over the past few
decades, as a means of promoting economic development, preserving
cultural heritage, and conserving natural resources in rural areas. A
literature review of rural tourism reveals the following:

Conceptualization of rural tourism: Rural tourism is defined as the

activity of visitors, either domestic or international, who stay in rural
areas, enjoy the natural and cultural attractions, and participate in
activities related to agriculture, nature, and culture.
Economic impact of rural tourism: Rural tourism has been shown to
have a positive impact on the local economy by creating employment
opportunities, generating income, and stimulating entrepreneurship. It
also helps to diversify the rural economy, reduce rural-urban migration,
and increase rural population retention.

Environmental impact of rural tourism: Rural tourism can have both

positive and negative environmental impacts. Positive impacts include
conservation and preservation of natural resources, while negative
impacts can include degradation of natural habitats, pollution, and
overuse of resources.

Social impact of rural tourism: Rural tourism can have positive social
impacts, such as increased social interaction, cultural exchange, and
preservation of traditional lifestyles and customs. However, it can also
lead to social conflicts, cultural erosion, and the commodification of
local culture.

Factors influencing rural tourism development: Several factors have

been identified as critical to the development of rural tourism, including
government policies, infrastructure development, marketing and
promotion, community involvement and participation, and the
availability of resources.

Challenges facing rural tourism development: Some of the challenges

facing rural tourism development include limited access to capital and
financing, lack of skilled labor, inadequate infrastructure, and
competition from other destinations.

Overall, the literature suggests that rural tourism has great potential as
a tool for sustainable rural development, but careful planning and
management are necessary to minimize negative impacts and maximize
positive ones.
The history of rural tourism can be traced back to the early 20th
century, when the concept of "agritourism" emerged in the United
States. At this time, farmers began to offer visitors the opportunity to
experience farm life and participate in farm activities.

In Europe, the roots of rural tourism can be traced back to the 19th
century, when the upper classes began to seek out rural areas for
recreational purposes. This trend continued into the 20th century, with
the development of "holiday camps" and the expansion of the tourism
industry.

The modern concept of rural tourism, which emphasizes sustainable

development and cultural preservation, emerged in the 1970s and
1980s. This was driven in part by a growing interest in ecotourism and
the desire to support rural communities.

In the 1990s, rural tourism became an important economic driver in

many countries, particularly in Europe. Governments began to promote
rural tourism as a way to support local communities and preserve
traditional ways of life.
Today, rural tourism continues to grow in popularity, with travelers
seeking authentic cultural experiences and a deeper connection to the
natural environment. Many rural communities have embraced tourism
as a way to diversify their economies and preserve their unique cultural
heritage.

Rural tourism, also known as agritourism, is a form of tourism that

involves visitors traveling to rural areas to experience the local culture,
traditions, and way of life. The history of rural tourism can be traced
back to the early 20th century, when people started to travel to the
countryside to escape the urban environment and enjoy the fresh air
and peaceful surroundings.

In the 1930s, the concept of rural tourism gained popularity in Europe,

particularly in countries like , Italy, and Switzerland. These countries
were experiencing an economic depression, and rural tourism provided
an opportunity for farmers to supplement their income by offering
accommodations and experiences to visitors.

In the 1950s and 1960s, rural tourism continued to grow in popularity,

and many countries started to develop policies and programs to
promote it. For example, in the United States, the government
established the Rural Development Act in 1961, which provided funding
and support for rural tourism initiatives.
In the 1970s and 1980s, rural tourism became more diverse and
specialized. Visitors began to seek out unique experiences, such as farm
stays, wine tours, and eco-tourism. Many farmers and rural
communities embraced this trend and started to offer a range of
activities and accommodations to cater to different interests and
budgets.

In the 1990s and 2000s, rural tourism continued to evolve, with a

greater emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
Many rural communities started to recognize the importance of
preserving their natural and cultural heritage and began to offer
educational and conservation-focused experiences to visitors.

Today, rural tourism is a global phenomenon, with visitors traveling to

rural areas all over the world to experience local culture, cuisine, and
traditions. It continues to be an important source of income and
employment for rural communities, and a popular form of tourism for
visitors who seek authentic and unique experiences.

Rural tourism is a type of tourism that involves visiting and experiencing

rural areas, typically those outside of urban areas. This type of tourism
has gained popularity in recent years, as more people seek out unique
and authentic travel experiences that allow them to connect with
nature and local cultures.

One of the main attractions of rural tourism is the opportunity to

escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a slower pace of
living. Rural areas often offer peaceful landscapes, fresh air, and a
chance to explore and appreciate the natural environment. Visitors can
also immerse themselves in local traditions, such as agriculture and
handicrafts, and learn about the customs and lifestyles of the people
who live there.

The rise of rural tourism has also had a positive impact on local
economies. By attracting visitors, rural areas can generate income and
create jobs for the local community. This can help to support small
businesses and revitalize rural economies that have been struggling in
recent years.

However, rural tourism also poses some challenges. For example,

increased tourism can put pressure on local resources and
infrastructure, and visitors may not always respect the natural
environment or local cultures. It is important for rural communities to
carefully manage and plan for tourism to ensure that it is sustainable
and benefits everyone involved.

This publication released on the occasion of the International Year for

Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017, focuses on community
empowerment and poverty alleviation through rural tourism
development. The report shines a light on rural tourism development in
the Asia Pacific region with fourteen specific case studies that show
how communities have adapted a sustainable approach to rural
tourism that stimulates economic growth, creates employment and
improves the livelihood of communities.
To leverage India's rural heritage in creating a vibrant and responsible
tourism segment by creating engaging rural experiences thereby
promoting indigenous jobs, and preserving local culture and heritage.
To facilitate an enabling environment comprising of Government,
Industry, NGO, Community for development and promotion of rural
tourism in the Country.
Key Strategic Pillars
Model policies and best practices for tural tourism.
Digital technologies and platforms for rural tourism
Developing clusters for rural tourism
Marketing support for nural tourism
Capacity building of stakehotders
Governance and institutional Framework
Community Ecotourism
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines ecotourism as
“responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment
and improves the well-being of local people.” TIES is an example of a
nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting companies in developing
ecotourism practices and promoting sustainable community
development. Ecotourism provides an alternative form of travel to
mass tourism. Mass tourism is the idea of visiting a place with minimal
responsibility to the local community and environment. Tourism, the
world’s largest industry of more than 10% of total employment and
11% of global GDP, is also a quickly growing industry as “total tourist
trips are predicted to increase to 1.6 billion by 2020”.[7] In order to
accommodate these rising needs in the tourism industry, there must be
a shift within this industry. One in particular is the need to protect the
environment and respect the local culture.

According to the World Tourism Organization, ecotourism is growing

three times faster than the tourism industry.[8] This implies the already
changing phenomenon occurring in traveling. Similarly, the World
Conservation Union goes one step further in defining ecotourism to
include enjoying and appreciating nature, have low negative visitor
impact, and providing socio-economic involvement to the local
populations.[9] As ecotourism is growing, it is also focusing on
especially vulnerable locations to climate change. In a neoliberalism
theory, ecotourism is a win-win for both the host and tourist. This is
because there is an effort for conservation when jobs are available
outside of activities such as logging that harm the environment and the
intrinsic value of the environment is taken into consideration.
Additionally, ecotourism enhances social capital for both the host and
tourist when engaging in social interaction and learning about other
cultures.

However, because ecotourism is most popular in vulnerable

environments, it may unintentionally exploit the community causing a
serious social justice issue. The idea of community ecotourism is placing
the tourism activities in the hands of the local community. It addresses
the needs of the tourism businesses to minimize negative impacts and
maximize positive impacts in all three parts of the community – social,
economic, and environmental.[10] Community ecotourism resolves one
issue with ecotourism in particular, the input of the community hosting
the tourism. Governments and outside agencies have pushed
communities into hosting tourists which can sometimes cause more
harm if the community is not prepared without relevant knowledge,
leadership, or capacity. An example of such occurrence is in Montego
Bay in which international organizations brought tourists to already
westernized sites, which harmed this degraded environment.[12]
Another example is the case of Papua New Guinea’s Crater Mountain.
Setting aside their ethnic tension, the clans planned a tourist lodge for
two years that the government denied in five minutes. The lack of
collusion among the local clans and the government created tension
and failure for all parties. With community ecotourism, the community
itself primarily sees the venture to success and receives the economic
benefit, rather than government or third party organizations.

As a whole, the rise in demand of tourism to exotic places as they

become more accessible provides an opportunity for vulnerable and
economically impoverished communities. In traditional tourism, these
communities are often exploited and their resources depleted. It also
includes the social inequities when considering the power in the host–
guest relationship. Community ecotourism empowers the relationship
of the host and guest so that both can learn from a different culture
and how to maneuver such differences. When addressed properly,
equitable relationships blossom in the national and global sphere.
Unlike traditional tourism, this alternative tourism experience enables
people to engage positively in the community’s way of life and learn
how they interact with the environment. Community ecotourism can
act as a solution to social justice issues that arise with the tourism
industry in respect to the economy, environment, and culture.
 Methodology

CONCLUSION
Rural tourism refers to travel and tourism activities that take place in
rural areas, where the natural and cultural resources of the countryside
are the main attractions. Rural tourism offers visitors a chance to
experience a slower pace of life, to connect with nature and to learn
about local traditions and customs.

The benefits of rural tourism are numerous. It can provide economic

benefits to local communities by creating jobs, generating income, and
supporting small businesses. It can also help to preserve and protect
the natural and cultural heritage of rural areas, as visitors become more
aware of the importance of these resources and the need to conserve
them.

However, rural tourism also has its challenges. For example, it can put
pressure on fragile ecosystems, leading to environmental degradation if
not properly managed. It can also lead to the loss of traditional ways of
life and cultural practices, as communities adapt to meet the demands
of tourism.
In conclusion, rural tourism has the potential to provide significant
benefits to both visitors and local communities, but it must be managed
carefully to ensure that it is sustainable and does not have negative
impacts on the environment or local cultures. Effective planning,
regulation and monitoring are essential to ensure that rural tourism
develops in a way that is beneficial for all stakeholders.

SUGGESTION
Rural tourism refers to tourism activities that take place in rural areas,
often in close proximity to natural and cultural resources. Here are
some suggestions on how to develop rural tourism:

Identify unique features: Identify the unique features of your rural area
that could attract tourists, such as natural beauty, cultural heritage,
outdoor activities, or local cuisine.

Develop infrastructure: Develop the necessary infrastructure for rural

tourism, such as lodging facilities, transportation networks, and
recreational facilities.

Encourage community involvement: Involve the local community in

rural tourism development by promoting the benefits of tourism and
providing opportunities for local businesses to participate.
Promote sustainability: Promote sustainable tourism practices that
minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and the
local community.

Offer authentic experiences: Offer authentic experiences that allow

tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions, such
as festivals, fairs, and other cultural events.

Provide educational opportunities: Provide educational opportunities

for tourists to learn about the local history, culture, and environment.

Market effectively: Market rural tourism effectively by developing a

strong online presence, partnering with travel agencies, and leveraging
social media platforms.

Monitor and evaluate: Monitor and evaluate the impacts of rural

tourism on the environment, the local community, and the economy,
and make adjustments as necessary.

By following these suggestions, you can help to develop a thriving rural

tourism industry that benefits both tourists and the local community
 BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Hall, C. M., & Mitchell, R. (Eds.). (2002). Rural tourism and
sustainable rural development. Channel View Publications.

2. Sharpley, R., & Telfer, D. J. (Eds.). (2002). Tourism and

development in rural areas. Channel View Publications.

3. Wight, P. (Ed.). (2016). Tourism and regional development: New

pathways. Routledge.

4. Butler, R. W., & Hall, C. M. (1998). Rural tourism and recreation:

Principles to practice. CABI Publishing.

5. Getz, D. (2008). Event tourism: Definition, evolution, and

research. Routledge.

6. Pratt, S., & Urry, J. (Eds.). (1995). Tourism, ethnicity, and the state
in Asian and Pacific societies. University of Hawaii Press.

7. Sigala, M. (Ed.). (2016). Tourism and hospitality management.

Routledge.
8. Mowforth, M., & Munt, I. (2015). Tourism and sustainability:
Development, globalisation and new tourism in the Third World.
Routledge.

9. Gössling, S., Scott, D., & Hall, C. M. (Eds.). (2013). Tourism and
water: Interactions, impacts and challenges. Channel View
Publications.

10. Dwyer, L., Forsyth, P., & Spurr, R. (2004). Evaluating

tourism's economic effects: New and old approaches. Tourism
Management, 25(3), 307-317.