Residents Perceptions of Religious Tourism and its Socio-Economic Impacts on Turbat City

Abstract

This research investigates residents' perceptions of the socio-economic impacts of religious tourism in Turbat City, Balochistan, with a specific emphasis on the Zikri pilgrimage to Koh-e-Murad. A quantitative research method was adopted, data were collected from 342 respondents residing in areas near the pilgrimage site i.e. areas of Koh-e-Murad, Kolwai Bazar, and Molid-e-Rek., using a structured questionnaire and convenience sampling. The findings revealed that religious tourism is perceived to positively contribute to employment, income, infrastructural development, and social cohesion. However, concerns regarding environmental degradation, commercialization of religion, and rising living costs were also noted. The study highlights the need for inclusive and sustainable tourism policies that balance economic benefits with the preservation of local traditions and environmental integrity. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and religious tourism stakeholders seeking to develop equitable tourism strategies in culturally sensitive regions.