Gloomy Gangotri Glaciers: Delving the Dynamics of Doomsday Tourism

This study investigates the factors influencing the desire to visit the Gangotri Glacier, a major source of the Ganges River in the Indian Himalayas. The glacier has become a popular destination for "Doomsday Tourism" due to its rapid retreat, which is linked to climate change. The research objectives were to examine the impact of the glacier's environmental status, cultural and religious significance, information availability, and environmental concerns on people's intention to visit. The study employed a quantitative research approach using a survey-based design. Data was collected from participants through a survey instrument that included questions related to various factors influencing the desire to visit the Gangotri Glacier. Linear regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.  The Key Findings of the Study Are:  The cultural and religious significance of the Gangotri Glacier is the strongest predictor of the desire to visit, followed by the availability of reliable information and environmental concerns.  Awareness of the glacier's shrinkage due to climate change has a marginally significant positive effect on the desire to visit.  The difference in the impact of cultural/religious significance and environmental concerns on the desire to visit is not statistically significant. The results suggest that preserving the cultural heritage, promoting effective communication and outreach, and addressing environmental concerns are crucial in maintaining visitor interest in the Gangotri Glacier. The study also highlights the potential for "last- chance tourism" as people seek to experience the glacier before it undergoes further dramatic changes due to climate change.