ASSESSMENT OF TOURISM POTENTIAL IN KAYGAON-TOKA, AHILYANAGAR, MAHARASHTRA

Kaygaon-Toka, located in the Ahilyanagar district of Maharashtra, is a culturally significant and naturally scenic rural region situated at the confluence of the Pravara and Godavari rivers. Known for its Siddheshwar Temple complex and serene agrarian surroundings, Kaygaon-Toka exhibits strong potential for developing religious, eco-tourism, river-based tourism, agro-tourism, and community-led village tourism. Despite these strengths, the region faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited marketing, seasonal river fluctuations, and low institutional support. This research paper examines the location’s existing tourism assets, socio-cultural dynamics, environmental conditions, constraints, and development opportunities. It proposes a sustainable tourism development model based on community participation, soft infrastructure development, heritage conservation, institutional coordination, and long-term ecotourism planning. The study concludes that Kaygaon-Toka can become a model rural-religious tourism destination if supported by integrated planning, government initiatives, and grassroots involvement