e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO COOCHBEHAR, WEST , Probir Ch Barman*1 *1B.A Honours in Geography, Department of Geography, Mahavidyalaya, 736159, , India. ABSTRACT Tourism is as an important tool for human development and sustainable livelihoods. It is an important source of income, employment, environmental and biodiversity development. The Dooars are the alluvial floodplains in eastern-northeastern India. It lie north of Brahmaputra river basin and south of outer foothills of the Himalayas. There are three districts of West Bengal situated in dooars region namely Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Coochbehar. For present study I select only Coochbehar district of West Bengal. Once a princely State, Coochbehar is known for its natural beauty fine climate and its culture. The sculptures of the Mughal Periods, and the temples of the medieval and late medieval periods reveal that the ancient kingdom of Kamrup played an important role in the d0evelopment of the present Coochbehar. The major attraction in Coochbehar districts is the Koch king Maharaja Nripendra Narayan’s palace. This magnificent palace was built by the Maharaja in 1887 designed to resemble the classical European style of the Italian Renaissance. Coochbehar is also famous for Rasik Bill, , Siva temple, Sagardighi, Madhupur Dham Temple, Kamteswari Temple and Madan Mohan Bari. It was found from the study that the Coochbehar districts of West Bengal had a potentiality to become an established sustainable tourism spot. Keywords: Sustainable tourism, Coochbehar, Tourism development, Impacts on tourism. I. INTRODUCTION Tourism is travel for pleasure or business so without travel there is no tourism. The concept of sustainable tourism is tightly related to the concept of sustainable mobility. Local communities are benefited from sustainable tourism through job creation, and infrastructure development and economic development. Tourism revenues bring economic growth and attract tourist which raise the living standard in local communities and increase infrastructure in tourist destination. According to west Bengal tourism department the word “Dooars” that means the place where nature has kept its doors open. Coochbehar district located in this region. The forest type is dense natural forests with green tea garden. The major rivers in Coochbehar are Testa, Torsha, Jaldhaka and Kaljani. Rainy season is generally starts from the month of May to month of September. Winters season is average cold. Summer season is slight warm. The native people were generally Schedule caste (Rajbongshi). The existing familiar tourist places of coochbehar are Rasik Bill, Gosanimari Rajpat, Baneswar Siva temple, Sagardighi, Madhupur Dham Temple, Kamteswari Temple and Madan Mohan Bari. However the major impact of Tourism viewable on the local environment, and the economy. The present study gives comprehensive outlook of the local beneficiaries (in both ways) of tourism in the coochbehar district. The development of tourism and various impact it has brought in the district Coochbehar analysed in detail in this paper. Objectives of the study: The paper establishes the relationship between tourism and its various implications on the local people of coochbehar. The purpose of the study is to estimate the socio cultural, environmental and economic effects for develop sustainable tourism in the Dooars region. Putting an emphasis to know the positive and negative impacts of growth with increasing tourist inflow in Coochbehar. This paper will help tourists to gain an insight into positive alternatives for better sustainable touristic approach in Coochbehar. Study area: Coochbehar is a city and districts in the Indian state of West Bengal. It situated in the outer foothills of the Eastern Himalayas at 26°22′N 89°29′E. The elevation of coochbehar district is about 48 meters above mean sea level. The river Torsa flows by the north-western side of coochbehar town. Heavy rains often cause strong www.irjmets.com @International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering, Technology and Science [1727] e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com river flood. The turbulent water carries huge amounts of silt, sand and pebbles, which have an adverse effect on various crop production. Alluvial deposits form the soil acidic. The soil depth varies from 5.9 to 19.7 inches superimposed on a bed of sand. The soil has low levels of nitrogen with medium levels of potassium and phosphorus. Deficiencies of boron, sulphur, magnesium, calcium and zinc are high. Coochbehar is a plane region with a slight south-eastern slope. Most of the highland areas are found in the subdivision, and low-lying lands lie in subdivision of coochbehar districts. Six rivers that cut through the district are the Teesta, Kaljani, Raidak, Jaldhaka, Ghargharia, Gadadhar, and Torsha flows from northwest to southeast. The district coochbehar does not experience very high temperatures at any time of the year. The daily minimum temperature is 9.4 °C (48.9 °F) in January the coldest month, and maximum temperature is 32.2 °C (90.0 °F) in the month of August, the hottest month. The highest temperature recorded in was 41.0 °C, on 11 September 1977 and the lowest temperature 3.3 °C, recorded on 28 January 1982. The atmosphere of the study area is highly humid. The average annual rainfall in the region is 140.2 inch (3,562 mm). Coochbehar is one of the planned city in the Dooars region with remnants of its royal heritage. LOCATION MAP OF COOCHBEHAR IN WEST BENGAL, INDIA

Figure 1: Location map of Coochbehar.

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The survey was done during January to February 2021. The discussion part of the study has been prepared by combining the quantitative results along with a comparison of ongoing trends in Tourism in Dooars area of coochbehar districts. What is sustainable tourism? Sustainable tourism is an industry committed to establish a suitable balance between the economic, socio- cultural and environmental aspects of tourism development, plays an important role in conserving biodiversity, generate income, job opportunity, and the conservation of local ecosystems. With sustainable tourism, environmental impacts are neither stable nor irreversible. Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities" (UNWTO) Impact of sustainable tourism: The impact on sustainable Tourism can be broadly categorized as economic, socio- cultural, and environmental. Economic Impact: There are both positive and negative effects found on local communities related to the economic impacts in sustainable tourism. A positive impact can refer to the increasing living standard of life for locals, increase in jobs and an increase in wealth of an area. Tourism also has the advantage of rebuilding and restoring historic, cultural and religious sites. Positive growth started when there is an increase in employment for locals as the tourism industry automatically becomes more developed. A negative impact can refer to the jobs are often seasonal (based on the time of year) and are poorly paid, Most money goes out of the area to big companies, not locals, Damage to the natural environment, e.g. footpath erosion, litter, habitats destroyed to build hotels and restaurants . Socio Cultural Impact: In coochbehar, locals involvement on tourism activities has made them to earn and spend well amount of money which they later on use to provide good education to their children. The development of social standard of living is also visible in terms of communication system, schools, libraries, hospitals, roads, rail, internet cafes water quality and social amenities like clothing, food, etc. Environmental Impact: The common environmental concerns in Dooars region are: ►Ecological damage of natural areas by improper tourism development. ►Waste disposal problems where tourist dump the waste in an around the spot. ►Cutting and logging of trees for constructing roads, accidental forest fire caused by tourists, soil pollution by burying of non-biodegradable glass and plastic bottles, and plastic bags. ►Stress on wild animals, wildlife accidents with tourist vehicles, hunting, feeding of wild animals by tourists etc. This aspect of sustainability discussed through the literature by numerous authors such as Hall, C. M. & Lew A.A. (1998), Weaver (2006), Hall, D. (2000), and many others. Sustainable tourism development strategy: Tourism is a large industry of economic benefits including employment opportunities, small business development, and increased in payments of foreign exchange. A Sustainable Tourism Strategy is based on the information collection. It defines the potential objectives, the priority issues, the stakeholder, local people’s role and a set of methodologies to reach these objects. These can include among others: www.irjmets.com @International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering, Technology and Science [1729] e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com •Conservation of specific region or habitats that make the area more attractive. •Development of economic sector interlinked with the tourism sector (e.g. production of food specialities and handicrafts) •Maximising local revenues by investments. •Development of the connectivity of the region. • Improving the living standard quality of host communities. • Protect the biological diversity, ecological systems, environmental and natural resources for future. • Ensure the cultural and social integrity among communities. • Provide a very high quality experience for visitors. The following are general strategies for the sustainable tourism development.

Figure 2: Conceptual model 1: Conceptual Model 2:

Figure 3: Own model. www.irjmets.com @International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering, Technology and Science [1730] e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com Tourism in coochbehar: Coochbehar is one of the major tourist places in West Bengal. The main attraction of coochbehar is the Rajbari (The palace of the Koch Kings) and the royal buildings as well as the endless royal history, facts & stories. The peace loving people of Coochbehar and the beautiful city of Koch Maharajas (The king) attracted the tourists. This beautiful planned city (in the year of 1900) with infrastructure quite similar to any modern planned city. However, the place is so quiet & calm and the climate here like the rest of Dooars is just fine to let you feel the freshness & beauty of nature all around. : The main attraction of Coochbehar is Rajbari (the palace of king) of Maharaja Nripendra Narayan (4 October 1862 – 18 September 1911). It was modelled after the Buckingham Palace in London in 1887, this fantastic palace was built by the Maharaja in 1887 AD. The building contains more than fifty rooms/halls which include bedrooms, billiard room, kitchen, dressing rooms, dancing hall, library, Toshakhana, dining hall, and the ladies gallery. Certain rooms are attract tourists for their beautiful paintings. Madan Mohan Bari (Madan-Mohan Temple): Situated in the heart of the Coochbehar town. This temple was constructed by 21 st Maharaja Nripendra Narayan during 1885 to 1889. Baradebi Bari: Inside this temple the idol of Goddess Durga is installed. During Saradutsav, Durga Puja at Debibari is of major attraction of coochbehar. Baneswar Siva temple: The temple situated in the North of Coochbehar town. There is a 'Shivalinga' 10 feet below the plinth level with a big pond within the temple campus having a large number of tortoise. Madhupur Dham temple: It was built in the 16th century. This place has a special significance for the Acharya Shankaradevas the teachings of the neo-Vaishnava cult. Siddhanath Siva temple: It constructed by Maharaja Harendra Narayan and Maharaja Shibendra Narayan during 1799 to 1843 Situated at a distance of 7 km from Coochbehar. The Temple has 5 dome like, but at present the largest one has been damaged. Siddheswari Kali Bari: Maharaja Harendra Narayan constructed the temple. It situated 11 km far from Coochbehar town. Dangar Ayee Temple: it is situated at Gunjabari in Coochbehar town. This is constructed during 1839 to 1847. The temple is famous for the 'Aunt's House' of Lord Madan Mohan. Kamteswari Temple: The temple is situated at Dinhata. The original kamteswari temple is now destroyed. The present temple was established by Maharaja Pran Narayan in 1665. Gosanimari Rajpat: This place is the pride of Coochbehar. This place has an important archaeological and historical place in the history of Cooch Behar. The Kingdom of Kamata was ruled by the dynasties of Pala and Sena (1100 A.D.), then by the Khen dynasty (1400 A.D to 1498 A.D.) then the King Nilambara was defeated by Sultan Hussein Shah of Gaud and he had ruled the from early on in the 16th Century. Sagardighi: The most spectacular tank in Coochbehar is Sagar Dighi. The beautiful tank attracts migratory birds in winter. Rasik Beel: Rasikbeel one of the largest wetlands of . It has an important significance in the development of tourism in Koch Bihar. Rasikbeel is famous as wetland and eco-tourism spot of Coochbehar district. This is constituted of five 'Beels' or wide elongated water bodies namely Neeldaba, Bochamari, Raichangmari, Shankhadanga and Rasikbeel (Mondal and Das, 2012). It is a very wellknown bird sanctuary and famous for local and migratory birds. Major tourist spots in Coochbehar:

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Figure 4: Famous tourist spot

Figure 5: Sustainable tourism model for Coochbehar.

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Table 2: Classification of the Respondent On The Basis Of Different Independent Variable (Respondent type: Villagers) n=50

Frequency/ SL. NO VARIABLE percentage of the Respondent (n=50)

A. Gender

1. Male 32

2. Female 18 B. Age

1. <16 6

2. 16-25 15 3. 26-35 12

4. 36-45 7 5. 46-55 4

6. >56 6

C. Travel agency

1. Used 37 2. Not used 13

D. Source of information 1. Friend & relatives 23

2. Newspaper & magazine 12 3. Travel guide 4 www.irjmets.com @International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering, Technology and Science [1733] e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com

4. Travel Agency 6 5. Others 5

E. Reason for come 1. Natural beauty 5

2. Historical place 10 3. To visit Rajbari 20

4. Picnic purpose 15 F. INTENTION TO VISIT AGAIN

1. Yes 18 2. No 32

Source: data collected form field survey. Sustainable tourism issues and challenges in coochbehar: The major issues that obstruct the development of sustainable tourism in coochbehar are – Infrastructure: Lack of Inadequate infrastructure (transportation networks, accommodation, water systems, energy sources, etc.) development tourist are faced so many problems that effect on tourist interests to visit that place again. Local’s involvement: When the tourists come the local people gives them negative information about the place due to proper knowledge about the area, this is the main reason of the downfall of the place. Maintains: Some heritage sites are heavily affected due to proper maintained. That effects on tourists interests. On the other hands, by refurbish (repaint, rebuild) for tourism purpose, we lose the original historical site when they get replaced with “new” look. Advertising: Advertising is one of the most important factors that help the tourism industry to develop interest among tourists both local and international marketplace. By promoting the natural resources, culture, heritage etc. the visitor get more familiar with the place. Awareness: Due to lack of awareness and proper knowledge about the place in rural side local does not take care of the place. Lack of investments: Financing and Investment is an essential part of tourism, which did not found in all places. Lack of safety: The safety for tourists is the primary factor for any successful tourism industry. Safety related tourism problem exert a negative reputations of the place. Covid-19: Due to COVID-19, Countries around the world closed their borders and introduced travel restrictions in response to the pandemic. Fear of the virus forced travellers to cancel or delay their trips. However the situation gradually improving in 2021. SUGGESTION: In terms modern needs, every heritage site requires modern infrastructure. Some of these social and infrastructural needs are: Administration: co-operation between the NGO-s, local and regional communities and involving local people in shaping tourism policy and decisions. Maintain and repair local roads, streets, bridges, squares and organise traffic and Protect historical landmarks and monuments. Socio-economical sector: Promoting local food and handicraft and Setting up networks of local producers for better marketing; development of new products to meet the needs of tourists.

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Strength (S) Weakness (W)

S1. Many historical places (Rajbari, Gosanimari W1. Inadequate infrastructure (Transportation, Rajpat,) Water system, energy, investment,) S2. Large Wetlands (Rashikbill, Sagardighi, W2. Lack of promotional activities about the Rajamata dighi.) area. S3. Organisation of festivals (Durga puja, Chatt W3. Alack of traffic direction signs puja, Rash mela, Dol purnima) W4. Lack of awareness. S4. Religious Sites (Madan Mohan temple, Baradebi Bari, madhupur dham Temple, Kamteswari Temple and siddhanath siva temple.) Opportunities (O) Threats (T)

O1. New coochbehar railway station, coochbehar T1. Environmental pollution. Airport. T2. Unplanned urbanization. O2. Increasing demand for local handicraft T3. A lack of qualified staff. and products. O3. West largest water bodies.

Limitations of the Study: The present paper suffers from certain limitations: ►It has not been possible to obtain complete information about the area from the officials in view of secrecy. ►The study mostly based on secondary data and there is no plenty measure to judge their authenticity. ►Then is no proper record available on the earnings, tourists, in coochbehar from the tourism. www.irjmets.com @International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering, Technology and Science [1735] e-ISSN: 2582-5208 International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:03/March-2021 Impact Factor- 5.354 www.irjmets.com IV. CONCLUSION The word sustainable tourism means economically, culturally development and conservation of the tourism place. The Dooars area district of Coochbehar has the potential to be a sustainable tourism place in the map of West Bengal. Beside this it also have many weakness and environmental threats that found in respondents voice. To overcome this weakness and threats some sustainable tourism development strategy and conceptual model has been included in this paper. It can be concluded from the above study that there educational and income level is very low. If a proper policy may be taken that will boost tourism sector, education, investor and health facility then the sustainable tourism will gradually increase. V. REFERENCE [1] Kisi, N. (2019). A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Tourism Development Using the A’WOT Hybrid Method: A Case Study of Zonguldak, Turkey. Sustainability, 9–10. [2] Anszperger, A. (2017). The Role of Public Administration in Tourism Development in the Case of the Torun County. Public Policy and Administration, 560–561. [3] Pan, S.-Y., Gao, M., Kim, H., Shah, K. J., Pei, S.-L., & Chiang, P.-C. (2018). Advances and challenges in sustainable tourism toward a green economy. Science of The Total Environment, 635, 452–469. [4] Towards investment and financing for sustainable tourism. (2018). OECD Tourism Trends and Policies, 94–95. [5] Beg, D. F. B., Rehman, D. S.-, & Shafi, D. S. I. (2018). Sustainable Tourism Development in India with Special Reference to Nainital-Uttarakhand. IJAIR, 34–41. [6] Korez-Vide, R. (2015). ENFORCING SUSTAINABILITY PRINCIPLES IN TOURISM VIA CREATIVE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT. Innovative Issues and Approaches in Social Sciences, 6–9. [7] Das, G., saha, A., Basynathe, V. K., Sultana, S., Seth, P., Singh, N., Roy, A., Singh, N. K., Borah, S., & Kalita, H. C. (2016). DOOARS INDIA: A POTENTIAL PLACE OF FARM OR RURAL TOURISM: A REVIEW. International Journal of Agriculture Sciences, 2715–2716. [8] Biswas, S., & Bhattacharya, S. K. (2017). URBANIZATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: AN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY IN COOCH BEHAR TOWN, WEST BENGAL, INDIA. ILEE, 116–118. [9] Mamhoori, A., & Nasim, S. (2015). Sustainable Tourism Development in India: Analyzing the Role of Stakeholders. SSRN Electronic Journal, 1079–1084. [10] Sustainable Tourism - Practice - Sustainable Tourism Strategy, Available at: https://www.biodiversity.ru/coastlearn/tourism-eng/index.html (Accessed: 26 march 2021). [11] Tourist places of Cooch Behar, Available at: http://coochbehar.nic.in/htmfiles/tour_all.html (Accessed: 26 march 2021). [12] http://sdt.unwto.org/

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