Pilgrimage and Environment

The present work justifies that, pilgrimage tourism fulfills the essential characteristics of tourism geography which is part of Human Geography. The functional characteristics of the pilgrims reveal the view of the pilgrims and their behavioural attitude regarding the pilgrimage of Alandi. Important fairs are held annually at Alandi and are attended by more than 20 lakh pilgrims particularly during Kartiki fair more than 8 lakh devotees and for Ashadhi Ekadashi more than 5 lakh devotees. All these activities reveal the significance of Alandi as pilgrimage tourism. The outstanding feature of Palkhi procession is that, people from different religions come together, live together and exchange their view which helps to strengthen national and regional integration. The scope of this study is wide, because it covers the entire 'Varkari Sampradaya' as it cannot be confined to a mere academic pursuit. Because of constant rush of pilgrims, residents of the town are facing many problems. It has created physical, economic, environmental & socio cultural impact on destination. Some of these cannot be avoided completely and it is important that planners should keep these realities in mind.