A GEOGRAPHICAL STUDY OF EVALUATING INFRASTRUCTURAL GAPS AND T POTENTIAL IN KOLHAPUR DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA STATE, INDIA

Tourism is a broad field that encompasses a variety of factors, primarily considering the geographical location of different places, the local environment, cultural factors, and the preferences of tourists. Tourism is one of the rapidly growing sectors contributing to regional development, employment generation. Kolhapur district of Maharashtra possesses a rich combination of natural, religious, cultural, and historical resources, many of tourist places are neglected. This study aims to assess the potential tourist places of Kolhapur district, highlighting their current status, infrastructural facilities, and future prospects. The study is based on primary and secondary data. The study identifies key opportunities and challenges in transforming Kolhapur district into a diversified tourism destination. The findings indicate that while Kolhapur district has a well-developed core tourism circuit, significant potential exists in the district, if adequate infrastructure, promotion, and sustainable management strategies are implemented.