Modeling sightseer attraction via culinary preferences: A data-driven study of kangra’s gastronomic landscape

This study investigated the role of destination food in tourism attraction, focusing on Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Using a quantitative approach with 410 tourist responses, it examined factors influencing tourists’ engagement with destination food. Results showed novelty, cultural exploration, sensory experiences, authenticity, and diversity significantly affected tourists’ decisions, while factors like food history knowledge and ingredient combinations had non-significant impacts. A strong positive correlation existed between overall food experience and perception of destination food as a tourist attraction. The study emphasized the importance of unique and authentic culinary offerings to enhance destination appeal. It suggested strategies including cultural promotion, culinary diversity, infrastructure investment, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration to maximize destination food’s potential for tourism. These efforts not only attract tourists but also foster economic growth and cultural heritage preservation.