Exploring the interplay of tourism impacts, quality of life, and community engagement in developing sustainable nature-based tourism in Pakistan

Abstract

Nature-based tourism is experiencing significant growth in Pakistan, holding substantial potential to enhance the well-being of mountain communities that have limited livelihood options. This study delves into the perceptions of local mountain communities regarding the economic, social, and environmental facets of tourism development and how these perceptions influence both their material and non-material aspects of life, ultimately shaping their support for sustainable tourism in the area. Focusing on the unique context of Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, the study encompasses 528 mountain residents. The study finds a positive correlation between residents' perception of the economic benefits of tourism and their overall quality of life, underscoring the critical role of economic advantages in elevating well-being. It also unveils that the perceived sociocultural impact of tourism has a favorable influence on the quality of life, encompassing both tangible and intangible dimensions, emphasizing the significance of cultural interactions and recreational opportunities in enhancing the overall well-being of residents. Intriguingly, the research reveals a link between the perceived environmental impacts and non-material aspects of life, indicating a close relationship between environmental sustainability, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life. This study underscores the positive association between a higher quality of life and residents' support for sustainable tourism development, indicating that contented residents are more inclined to endorse initiatives that promote economic, social, and environmental sustainability in tourism development.