Abstract
The chapter delves into a relatively newer segment in tourism arena: dark tourism. Dark tourism is a phenomenon that embodies the dramatic side of society including some horrific experiences. It is a complex fusion of history and heritage, tourism, and catastrophes. It has a tonne of promises and could definitely improve the economic progress of any country. It has the most vibrant youthful tourists. Due to its own attitudes and views, the Indian subcontinent lags in recognising this gold mine and promoting it, though it has always been observed as a spiritual hub and capital of occultism, hovering around the esoteric, supernatural beliefs and practices. If the Indian subcontinent adopts the global perspective on dark tourism and develops the necessary rules, infrastructure, and defences to deal with controversies and political concerns, it will see a significant increase in its domestic and international tourism-related earnings through exploration of this vast domain of possibilities.
TopLiterature Review On The Dark Tourism
Dark Tourism, also known as Thanatourism or Grief Tourism, is the act of visiting places associated with death, tragedy, or suffering. In a recent review of dark tourism research, Stone and Sharpley (2021) found that scholars have examined various aspects of dark tourism, including its motivations, impacts, and management. One area of focus in dark tourism research is the motivations behind tourists' desire to visit sites associated with death and tragedy. Stone and Sharpley (2021) noted that scholars have identified a range of motivations, including a desire for education and learning, a search for authenticity, and a fascination with death and the macabre. Additionally, researchers have found that visitors often seek to pay their respects to victims or to commemorate historical events.
Another area of focus in the literature is the impact of dark tourism on visitors and local communities. Stone and Sharpley (2021) noted while some scholars have argued that dark tourism can have positive effects, like promoting historical understanding and empathy, while others have raised concerns about potential negative impacts, like the commodification of tragedy or the exploitation of local communities.
Finally, researchers have also examined the management of dark tourism sites. Stone and Sharpley (2021) noted that effective management is critical to balancing the needs of visitors and local communities, and that strategies such as interpretation, education, and community involvement can be effective in promoting responsible tourism practices.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Tourism: Tourism refers to the activity of people traveling to and staying in places outside of their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes. This can include activities such as visiting attractions, exploring new cultures, enjoying recreational activities, attending events or conferences, or simply relaxing and escaping from everyday life. Tourism can take place within one’s own country or internationally, and it can involve a wide range of travel options, from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations and experiences. Overall, tourism is an important industry that contributes to economic growth and cultural exchange between different regions and countries.
Niche Tourism: Niche Tourism refers to a specialized or unique form of tourism that caters to the interests and preferences of a particular group of travellers. This type of tourism often focuses on a specific activity, theme, or experience, and may appeal to a smaller, more specialized market than mainstream tourism. Niche tourism can take many forms, such as Adventure Tourism, Cultural Tourism, Eco-Tourism, Culinary Tourism, Medical Tourism, Sports Tourism, Dark Tourism among many others. It often involves engaging in activities or experiences that are not typically associated with traditional mass tourism, and may require specialized knowledge, skills, or equipment. Examples of niche tourism could include wildlife safaris, trekking in remote areas, visiting historical or cultural sites, attending specialized events or festivals, or participating in extreme sports. Niche tourism can also involve specific types of accommodation, such as eco-lodges or luxury resorts, that cater to the needs and preferences of a particular group of travellers.
Dark Tourism: Dark Tourism, also known as Grief Tourism or Thanatourism, refers to the act of travelling to places associated with death, tragedy, or suffering. This could include visiting historical sites related to mass genocide or tragedy, such as the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, or more recent events, such as the 9/11 Memorial in New York City. The term “dark” does not necessarily refer to a moral judgment, but rather the morbid or macabre nature of the subject matter. Dark tourism is a growing industry, with many people seeking out experiences that offer a glimpse into the darker side of human history and tragedy.
Occultism: Occultism refers to a broad set of beliefs and practices that deal with the mystical, supernatural, and paranormal phenomena beyond the realm of conventional understanding. It involves the study of hidden knowledge or secrets, often relating to the supernatural or mystical aspects of the universe. The term “occult” derives from the Latin word “occultus,” meaning hidden or secret. Occultism encompasses a wide range of practices, including divination, ritual magic, alchemy, astrology, numerology, and various forms of spiritualism. Followers of occultism often believe in the existence of spiritual entities, such as angels, demons, and other supernatural beings, and in the power of ritualistic practices to affect the physical world. Some people practice occultism for spiritual or religious reasons, while others are drawn to it out of curiosity or a desire to explore hidden knowledge. The study and practice of occultism have a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece, and continue to be a subject of interest and debate in modern times.