A case study of heritage tourism stakeholders during the post-pandemic period in Assam, North-East India

Abstract

Given India's historical significance, vibrant culture, diverse ecology, topography, and natural attractions, the northeastern part of the country offers enormous potential for tourism. Tourism is one of the most distressed industries due to COVID-19 outbreak. This paper examines the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on the tourism sector and discusses how the stakeholders engaged in various tourism-related services are preparing for the new normal by strengthening heritage tourism destinations. Also, the support system of the Indian government to ensure the sector's sustainability is analyzed in the study. The study is both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Information was gathered through interviews and published materials about the unique UNESCO-recognized heritage site Kaziranga National Park, which is situated in the state of Assam, North-East India. Transformation is essential when the crisis is seen as a chance to reassess tourism going forward. The study's findings indicated that to create a long-lasting, resilient tourism economy; stakeholders must be more resourceful and creative to tackle the post-pandemic situation.