Tourism treasures and economic tides: A regional study of Dindigul district

This study explores the regional economic and employment impacts of tourism in Kodaikanal and Palani, Tamil Nadu, focusing on local business growth, employment generation, and the role of vendors in the tourism economy. The objectives include assessing the economic contributions of tourism and examining vendor income patterns. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and secondary data from government reports and economic surveys. Data were analyzed using Chi-Square tests and thematic analysis. The results show a significant relationship between tourism and increased sales revenue for vendors, especially in Kodaikanal. Employment opportunities were found to be higher during peak and mid-seasons, though seasonal fluctuations did not show a statistically significant impact on employment. A comparison between Kodaikanal and Palani reveals differences in tourist spending behavior and vendor challenges, with Palani vendors experiencing greater instability in spending patterns. The study supports the hypothesis that tourism positively impacts local sales and employment but suggests a need for further research into the factors influencing vendor challenges and regional economic disparities. The findings have implications for policy development aimed at improving the sustainability of tourism's economic impact in these regions.