A Study of Pilgrimage Tourism in Halesi, Khotang, Nepal

Halesi is one of the most important pilgrimage tourism destinations eastern Nepal. The purpose this study to highlight culture, religion, belief, ritual, pilgrims’ behavior, ‘metempsychosis’ (story, legend and myth) heritage Hindu, Tibetan Buddhist Kirati (Rai) communities through traditions (great little tradition or textual, oral transcendental cultural tradition) that play an role for shaping universe power, place people. Apart from these aspects culture in Halesi, research investigates how site has been commoditized into destination which what talks about. This a preliminary Khotang, Nepal provides room further exploration. uses qualitative grounded theory analyse polyethnic three diverse groups with respective religious beliefs executing holy rituals accordance their own customs. In order carry out research, fieldwork was done 38 days Halesi. Data were gathered different respondents including key informants, locals, hoteliers, priests, lamas, pilgrims, visitors. major data sources open-ended inquiries informal conversations. found gradually transforming on several infrastructural development both religion becoming pilgrims as well non-pilgrims (secular tourists). As result, attracted more numbers thereby improving economic situation local who involved industry began attract attention stakeholders when they able know significance destination. It noteworthy quote “a tourist half pilgrim, if pilgrim tourist”.