Tea Tourism: Navigating the Future of Assam's Agritourism
Bidisha Hazarika *
Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, India.
Pompi Dutta
Department of Agricultural Economics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, India.
Manuranjan Gogoi
Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, India.
Aditi Smith Gogoi
Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, India.
Diganta Kr. Bora
Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Assam, a state brimming with diverse tourism opportunities, boasts rich wildlife, cultural heritage, monuments, and abundant natural flora and fauna. Despite its vast potential, Assam has yet to secure a prominent position on the global tourism map. While recent government initiatives aim to rejuvenate the state's tourism, one overlooked sector is Agritourism, a facet of Community-based Tourism that allows visitors to engage directly with the host community. This study specifically delves into the agricultural realm, focusing on Assam's tea sector, a pivotal contributor to the state's economy and employment with over 800 major tea estates. Positioned as a prime candidate for Tea tourism, these estates offer a wealth of attractions, including century-old bungalows, lush green lawns, and expansive tea plantations. The study aims to explore the untapped potential of tea tourism, proposing approaches for development while addressing current challenges and presenting viable solutions. With its roots in community-based tourism and agritourism, tea tourism not only has the capacity to elevate the state's tourism industry but also positively impact the host communities involved.
Keywords: Tourists, tourism sector, tea tourism, agritourism