Spiritual and Tourism Supremacy of Garhwal.

Abstract

Garhwal is located in Uttarakhand state of Central Himalayas. The region of 52 Garhs; i.e. ; 52 Forts is now reluctant about the identification and conservation of these forts. The region however seems to be focused more on Spirituality and Tourism associated with it. The Garhwal has been in constant conflict with Kumaon; other part of Uttarakhand from social as well as political perspectives. The Char Dhams of Garhwal has drawn enormous spiritual and religious tourism. It continues to boost the same with contemporary effective utilisation of Social Media. The popularity of Char Dham is also increasing curiosity regarding lesser known and yet significant Panchakedar and Panchabadari. The academicians and researchers have been constantly engaged with researching and publishing books on folk deities. Government of Uttarakhand has been engaged with boosting tourism through homestays that can introduce tourists with local traditions, culture, cuisine, flora and fauna. Apart from this; Rishikesh is now recognised as the Yoga Capital of World. Haridwar as beginning point of Char Dham Yatra is flourishing with more shrines, ghats and ropeways that entice devotees visiting for spiritual experience. This paper conducts an inquisition on how Spiritual Tourism has been promoted in Garhwal without wholesome consideration to Spirituality and Tourism both. Though the traditions and cultures are being utilised as tool of promoting tourism; the use of regional languages is declining. Though more and more information of Folk deities is getting published; the increasing need of sanskritization and mainstream acceptance of folk deities seems to be experienced with urgency. The broadening of roads, heli tourism and effort to accommodate maximum tourists is hampering flora, fauna and spiritual peace of the region. The lack of discipline as part of promoting hospitality is increasing nuisance, garbage and criminal activities in the region. The paper thus demonstrates the positive as well as negative impacts of Spiritual Tourism on Garhwal as a region and society.