The Role of Homestays in Enhancing Religious Tourism - A Case Study on Guwahati's Cultural and Religious Sites

This research explores the role of homestays in enhancing religious tourism in Guwahati, focusing on key cultural and religious sites. The study examines how homestays enhance the overall experience of religious tourists by offering deeper cultural immersion and engagement with local customs. Using a mix of secondary data, questionnaires with guests and hosts, telephonic interviews, government reports, and academic sources, the research highlights the economic benefits of homestays for local communities while identifying challenges like inadequate infrastructure and limited marketing. The findings suggest that with policy support and improved infrastructure, homestays could play a pivotal role in boosting religious tourism and fostering sustainable tourism development in Guwahati.