• Manish Kumar Gautam
• Suman Chaudhary

Cultural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor's essential motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions or products in a tourism destination. It encompasses arts and architecture, historical and cultural heritage, culinary heritage, literature, music, creative industries and the living cultures with their lifestyles, value systems, beliefs and traditions. In This way, tourism and cultural heritage are interrelated to each other. Kushinagar, nestled in the verdant landscapes of Uttar Pradesh, holds profound significance for history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and travellers alike. This town has been a silent witness to the final days of Lord Buddha. It was here that he delivered his last sermon, attained "Mahaparinirvana" and was cremated at Ramabhar (Kushinagar). The cremation site, known as "Mukut Bandhan," witnessed the construction of a grand stupa by the Mallas, later renovated by Ashoka the Great. Chinese travelers Fa Hien and Hieun Tsang also documented "Kushinara" in their travel memoirs. Beyond its religious and historical importance, Kushinagar offers visitors a chance to experience rural life in Uttar Pradesh. The surrounding villages and farmlands provide glimpses into traditional Indian lifestyle and agriculture. Archeological excavations have yielded a rich collection of antiquities, including artistic artifacts and statues of various gods and goddesses. Additionally, Kushinagar served as a crucial link route for ancient highways, such as Ayodhya–Janakpur, Rajgrih–Vaishali–Shrawasti, and Maharshi Valmiki's Ashram. This research paper explores the cultural and artistic heritage of Kushinagar. It delves into the prospects of cultural heritage tourism in the district, shedding light on its potential for sustainable development and preservation.

Cultural-Heritage, Tourism, Tangible and intangible cultural heritage, Landscapes.

"Cultural-Heritage Tourism in Kushinagar District, Uttar Pradesh: Scenario and Prospects", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 5, page no.d624-d634, May-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2405370.pdf

"Cultural-Heritage Tourism in Kushinagar District, Uttar Pradesh: Scenario and Prospects", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 5, page no. ppd624-d634, May-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2405370.pdf