Quantifying the Tourism Potential of North-Western Himalayas: A Comparative Analysis of Sonamarg and Doodhpathri, India

Assessing the tourism potential of mountain destinations is crucial for successful and sustainable tourism planning. Tourism potential indicates the development and success of tourism in various regions and destinations. The present study deals with the mathematical model evaluation of the tourism potential of the north-western Himalayas. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the tourism potential of the two Himalayan destinations through a comparative study using a quantitative approach. The model employs the weighted sum method (WSM) to calculate potential tourism values. A simple random sampling technique with a structured questionnaire (N = 440) was used to accomplish the research objective. The results indicate that Sonamarg, with a value of (V = 0.630), has a medium, while Doodhpathri, with a value of (V = 0.398), has a low potential. Overall, the findings determine the significance of enhancing the tourist infrastructure and quality of service, strengthening ties with other tourism sites, and broadening tourism offerings to augment the allure of destinations and pave the way for a more diversified and thriving tourism industry. Unlocking the hidden potential of these destinations requires a holistic approach that considers the destination's unique natural, cultural, and social aspects while promoting sustainable tourism.