Potential of Rural Tourism in India-A Synoptic View

India is a multi-destination country with a variety of tourist attractions and facilities. Traditionally known largely for its historical and cultural dimensions, tourism today is highlighted for its immense business opportunities. The recognition of rural tourism as an alternative to mainstream is a recent concept. The basic concept of rural tourism was envisaged with benefit accruing to local community through entrepreneurial opportunities, income generation, employment opportunities, investment for infrastructure development and preservation of the environment and heritage. In India, rural tourism in its true form is relatively new. The potential for rural tourism to be a major force in rural economic development is yet to be realized to the fullest extent. Therefore, with a view to underscore a clear potential of rural tourism in India, the present study has made an attempt to highlight the industrial potential for rural tourism and articulates a spectrum for conceptualizing rural tourism in India. The study mainly focuses on challenges and opportunities to rural tourism in India and future prospects for its sustainable development.