Himachal Pradesh's changing rural tourism industry: Obstacles to local sustainability

Local tourism is crucial to enhancing tourist operations in mountainous (tribal) and rural areas because it incorporates the local population and generates alternate sources of income and jobs. The desire for adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences has led to significant growth in the rural tourism sector in Himachal Pradesh in recent times. However, this development has introduced concerns about the sustainability of local populations and environments. This paper explores the obstacles to local sustainability in Himachal Pradesh's changing rural tourism industry. This study uses empirical interview techniques, document analysis, and stakeholder conversations to examine the situation of rural tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, an assessment of existing problems and trends in the rural tourism sector of Himachal Pradesh was carried out. The study also evaluated the current framework for marketing rural tourist products in Himachal Pradesh.