Socio-demographic analysis of destination selection factors for Himalayan Hill destinations

Abstract

Background The towering peaks of the Himalayas lie in troves of captivating hill destinations, especially in India. Each destination aims to provide tourists with unique experiences and breath-taking landscapes. Understanding the tapestry of factors that weave the allure of these destinations and draw visitors from diverse backgrounds remains intriguing. Method This study delves into the socio-demographic tapestry of Himalayan hill destination selection, unraveling the complex interplay of demographic characteristics, social influences, and individual motivations that shape tourists’ choices. Results This study aims to answer why different tourists have different travel choices and what factors are the drivers behind such choices. The results show that destination selection factors are similar irrespective of respondents’ socio-demographic variabilities; however, for a few factors, the results are reversed. Conclusion The study has implications for policymakers and the limitations of the research discussed at the end.