Conceptualising Sacred Grove Tourism for Future Research Models - a Research Note

Authors

Debasish Batabyal, Amity Institute of Travel and Tourism, Amity University Kolkata, IndiaFollow
Rupa Sinha Dr., Doctoral Research Fellow, Golden Gate University, San Francisco, USAFollow
Kareem M. Selem Dr., Hotel Management Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, EgyptFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0191-9804

Abstract

Sacred groves or woodlands are known in tourism settings, they require a long historical process, and their classification as a unique tourism element is expanded in academic literature. To explore the characteristic features of sacred grove tourism, this research note reviews existing studies of tourism. Moreover, this research note seeks to uncover interesting socio-religious, cultural, and conservation dimensions that could guide policy-making in nature-based tourism. A comprehensive review of the tourism literature was conducted to determine whether sacred groves were included as a tourism feature. This research analysed previous studies on nature-based, religious, and cultural heritage tourism to formulate a thematic synthesis of this varied literature and to identify some significant gaps. Findings suggest that sacred groves are referred to in the cultural and conservation discourse but do not have a defined purpose in structured tourism. This work lays the groundwork for subsequent research and policy interventions while further diversifying sustainable tourism concepts.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Batabyal, Debasish; Sinha, Rupa Dr.; and Selem, Kareem M. Dr. (2026) "Conceptualising Sacred Grove Tourism for Future Research Models - a Research Note," International Journal of Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage: Vol. 13: Iss. 4, Article 13.
Available at: https://arrow.tudublin.ie/ijrtp/vol13/iss4/13