Affiliation:
1. National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM), India
Abstract
Terrorist incidents at tourist destinations create several negative impacts. Many studies have focused on the intent of the tourists to visit a place affected by terrorism. However, there are no studies gauging the perceptions of travel agencies and tour operators. In this regard, this particular study intends to understand the detrimental effects of terrorism on various travel agencies and tour operators operating in Kashmir in India, which also form a part of MSMEs. Case study and semi-structured interviews have been used. The findings clearly illustrate that terrorism does have detrimental effects on a tourist destination and, in turn, deleterious effects on the travel agencies and tour operators operating in the region. It is also evident that there are political instabilities and lack of promotion and marketing of the destination. It is hoped that the political stability and proper promotion will lead to positive destination image and better management of the destination.