Impact of Spirituality on Tourist Satisfaction: An Empirical Analysis of Religious Tourism

Authors

  • Mohmmad Rafiq Dar Research Scholar at The Business School University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, Nehru Hall Boys Hostel, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir Pin:180006 https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8091-0767
  • Prof. Rajendra Mishra Professor at The Business School University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir Pin: 180006

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53983/ijmds.v13n12.005

Keywords:

Spirituality, Pilgrimage, Pilgrim Satisfaction, Religious Tourism, Human Spirituality

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate structural links between different sources of spirituality and pilgrim satisfaction in the context of religious tourism, with main emphasis on the non-religious sources of spirituality. The analysis of data was carried out with 405 pilgrims visiting the annual Amarnath yatra in Kashmir valley of Jammu and Kashmir. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the model on pilgrim satisfaction. Validity and reliability of the constructs was verified by AVE, CFA and Cronbach Alpha. PLS Predict was used to predict the predictive relevance of pilgrim satisfaction with underlying constructs. The results of this study show that theistic spirituality has significant direct impact on pilgrim satisfaction. Predictive relevance was reported high in this study. Theistic, self and transcendent spirituality were found to be important indicators of satisfaction in religious tourism. Implications and Future Research: This model of study can be researched in future with a mediating effect of place attachment in other destinations. The role of others constructs in the post pandemic scenario can also be investigated. This is the first investigation in religious tourism to test the five dimensions of spirituality. This framework can be useful for academicians and policy makers of tourism departments, especially religious tourism. The investigation provides policymakers with viable solutions for increasing tourist satisfaction.

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Author Biographies

Mohmmad Rafiq Dar, Research Scholar at The Business School University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, Nehru Hall Boys Hostel, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir Pin:180006

Mohmmad Rafiq Dar is a senior research scholar at The Business School, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India where he is pursuing PhD in Management. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration (BBA), a master’s degree in commerce (M.Com), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management. He has also qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) and the State Eligibility Test (SET) in Commerce. Mohmmad’s research interests lie at the intersection of hospitality, tourism, and consumer behavior, with a particular focus on pilgrimage tourism. He has extensive experience in academic research, presenting papers at national and international conferences, and participating in various workshops. His work often explores emerging trends and challenges in tourism, including influencer marketing and its impact on consumer attitudes and purchase.

Prof. Rajendra Mishra, Professor at The Business School University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir Pin: 180006

Prof Rajendra Mishra is currently faculty at The Business School, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India, He holds a master’s degree in commerce (M.Com) and a PhD in Management. With an extensive career spanning over 33 years in teaching and research, he has made significant contributions to the fields of management and commerce education. His research specializations include Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management (HRM), and Tourism and Hospitality. Professor Mishra has a remarkable record of publications in reputed academic journals, reflecting his extensive research expertise. He has also attended numerous workshops and conferences, where he has shared his insights and gained valuable knowledge to further his academic pursuits. His dedication to education and research continues to inspire students and colleagues alike and has established him as a respected figure in the fields of management and commerce.

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Published

31-12-2024

How to Cite

Dar, M. R., and R. Mishra. “Impact of Spirituality on Tourist Satisfaction: An Empirical Analysis of Religious Tourism”. International Journal of Management and Development Studies, vol. 13, no. 12, Dec. 2024, pp. 39-51, doi:10.53983/ijmds.v13n12.005.

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 12 (2024): IJMDS

Section

Articles