SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF TOURIST IN LOHAGAD HISTORICAL PLACE IN MAVAL TAHSIL, DISTRICT PUNE (MAHARASHTRA)

Maval Tahsil, located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, is a region rich in historical and cultural heritage, with numerous forts such as Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona, and Tung that stand as symbols of the Maratha era. The growing interest in historical tourism has significantly influenced the socio-economic landscape of rural areas within Maval. This study examines how heritage-based tourism contributes to rural development through employment generation, infrastructure improvement, and the promotion of local arts and culture. It also explores challenges such as environmental degradation, commercialization, and inadequate tourism management. The findings highlight that sustainable historical tourism can serve as a powerful tool for inclusive rural growth if supported by proper planning, community participation, and government initiatives. Thus, preserving historical sites while enhancing tourism infrastructure can ensure balanced development and long-term benefits for the rural population of Maval Tahsil.