Determinants of Tourist Satisfaction: The Mediating Role of Perceived Value Using Structural Equation Modeling

Tourism plays a pivotal role in regional development by fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and employment opportunities. This study investigates the determinants of tourist satisfaction in West Bengal, India, with a particular focus on the mediating role of perceived value. Drawing upon established constructs—Destination Attractiveness, Infrastructure, Cultural Heritage, Safety, and Service Quality—the research applies Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyse survey data collected from 450 tourists in Darjeeling. Results reveal that all five destination attributes significantly influence perceived value, which in turn mediates their effects on tourist satisfaction. Destination Attractiveness and Service Quality emerged as the strongest predictors, while Safety and Infrastructure also contributed directly to satisfaction outcomes. The model explains 65.3% of the variance in tourist satisfaction, underscoring its robustness and practical relevance. Findings highlight the need for strategic investment in infrastructure, safety measures, and cultural programming to enhance perceived value and foster repeat visitation. This research contributes to tourism management literature by providing empirical evidence from an emerging destination context and offering actionable insights for policymakers and destination managers.