The Effect of Seasonality on Tourism in Darjeeling: An Empirical Study

Tourism demand varies seasonally, affecting destination operations, business sustainability, and community livelihoods. In Darjeeling, this study examined stakeholder views on tourism seasonality, its economic and social/infrastructural effects, and preferred strategies to reduce harm while retaining benefits. A mixed-method approach combined primary survey data with secondary sources. Primary data were obtained from a structured three-point questionnaire completed by 76 stakeholders, including business owners/managers, tourism professionals, residents, officials, and community leaders, selected through convenience sampling between June and August 2026. The tool showed satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.77). Data were analyzed using SPSS-26, employing frequencies, percentages, and Pearson correlation tests. All participants recognized the significant seasonality. April, May, October, and November were consistently identified as busy months; March and June were noted, and January and February were not. The main drivers were pleasant weather (100%), holidays (85.5%), festivals (72.4%), and natural disasters that affected travel decisions (52.6%). Seasonality was linked to higher revenue in busy months (59.2% agreement; r = 0.593, p < 0.05), income instability across the year (59.2% agreement), temporary employment (50% agreement; r = 0.388, p < 0.05), higher prices, and living costs (cost of living: r = 0.73, p < 0.05). Overcrowding received the highest level of agreement (78.9%). Respondents preferred moderate visitor regulation, stronger off-season promotion, economic diversification, and community-based homestays, although views on infrastructure expansion and environmental enforcement were divided. Overall, community-focused policies are needed to balance the benefits and challenges year-round, while social and infrastructure pressures remain evident.

Seasonality, Tourism Demand, Darjeeling, Stakeholder Perceptions, Economic Impacts, Community-Based Homestays and Off-Peak Promotion

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