Potency Of Integrating Wellness Tourism For Sustainable Development -- A Qualitative Analysis Of Stakeholder Perspectives

In recent years, the growing emphasis on health and self-care has fueled the rise of wellness tourism, with practices like yoga, Ayurveda and spa therapies gaining global prominence. This shift reflects changing consumer priorities, as travelers increasingly seek experiences that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being alongside relaxation and rejuvenation. This qualitative study examines the potential of integrating wellness tourism including yoga, meditation, Ayurveda and traditional healing into sustainable tourism and destination development. Using purposive sampling, the research captures the perspectives of key stakeholders, such as local business owners, community members and tourism professionals, through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis of 82 interview transcripts identified five key dimensions linking wellness tourism to sustainability. Findings reveal that wellness tourism not only drives consistent tourist visits, income generation and local business growth but also fosters environmental awareness, cultural pride and community engagement. The study proposes a model positioning wellness tourism as a viable pathway for sustainable development, demonstrating its multifaceted impact on economic, social and environmental sustainability.