Rejuvenating Keezhputhupet and Thennambakkam Sacred Grove as Special Interest Tourism Sites

Abstract

The sacred groves of Keezhputhupet and Thennambakkam are pockets of tropical dry evergreen forest (TDEF) located in the districts of Villupuram and Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu, India. These groves are bounded by spiritual, socio-cultural, biological, ecological, medicinal, economical, and historical values. The main motives of this research are to determine the significance of revitalising the sacred groves and to explore ways to promote Keezhputhupet and Thennambakkam sacred groves as a special interest tourism site. This study adopts qualitative research approaches using semi-structured interview and observations. Myths, taboos, superstitious beliefs, religious practises, mythological stories, transformation of the grove to temple complex, the installation of Vedic god, the role of stakeholders in safeguarding and promoting the grove as tourism product were discussed. According to the study, tourism and active stakeholder participation can revitalise the destination image of the grove, promote spatial recovery, and transform the grove into a biodiversity heritage hotspot.