Assessment of Pilgrims Tourism Potential in Karjat Tahsil, District Ahilyanagar: A Geographical Analysis

Abstract Pilgrimage tourism, also known as religious tourism, is one of the most significant forms of tourism globally, especially in India, where spirituality and culture are deeply intertwined. The purpose of this paper is to assess the potential of pilgrimage tourism in Karjat Tahsil, District Ahilyanagar. Maharashtra. This region, rich in cultural and religious heritage, is home to numerous temples and sacred sites. However, the potential for tourism in this area has not been thoroughly studied or developed to its full extent. This study aims to explore the current state of pilgrimage tourism in Karjat Tahsil, identify the key factors affecting its growth, and propose strategies for developing it further. There are two places in Karjat taluka which are declared as tourism spots out of which one is Vandev and second is Tukai dongar. These two places are environmentally located in such places where there is green forest and wonderful scenario place. More over there is origin of river Khanola near Rehkuri which can also be a potential place for tourism. In Karjat taluka there are many religious places which can a tourist places in future. The taluka is rich in pilgrim and environment heritage. The research methodology includes qualitative and quantitative methods such as surveys, interviews with local stakeholders, and field visits to significant pilgrimage sites.