Community-Based Eco-Tourism in Mahad Region: Prospects for Sustainable Tourism Development

Abstract Sustainable Tourism is the most viable option for developing and developing the economy through Tourism in India; it is one of the major contributors to economic growth and job creation in the country. At present, significant interest is being shown on the development of Sustainable Tourism in India because of major concerns surrounding the negatives related to, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and the unequal distribution of the benefits of tourism to communities. The model for Community Based Eco-Tourism is an effective model of Sustainable Tourism as it supports the components of Sustainable Tourism that are based on the protection of the environment, involving local communities and increasing the economic standing of local communities by the active participation of local communities in the planning, management and benefits derived from tourism. The model for Community Based Eco-Tourism allows for local communities to actively participate in all aspects of tourism rather than simply being by-standers to tourism activity. The Mahad region of Raigad District in the state of Maharashtra has tremendous potential for Community Based Eco-Tourism due to its unique amalgamation of historical significance, natural attractions, cultural heritage, and biodiversity The Mahad region of Raigad District is home to several key tourist destinations including the Raigad Fort, Gandharpale Caves, Shivthar Ghal, Savitri River, forests and waterfalls and stunning geographical-scapes to support all types of tourism e.g. nature tourism, heritage tourism, adventure tourism and village tourism. The participation of the community in tourism can ultimately create opportunities for the generation of livelihoods, rural development, and the conservation of cultural heritage.