Spiritual Tourism, Spiritual Tourists and Religions: The Nexus between Authenticity and Commodification

Lack of mental stimulation and the materialisation of contemporary living has led to a growing demand for spiritual travel. Considering the abiding principle of spiritual tourism as a type of wellness tourism, similarities between spiritual tourism and the Mandala health model can be observed. This study explores spiritual tourism in Sri Lanka, emphasising its potential as a form of health tourism. Qualitative methods, including interviews with spiritual tourists and spiritual tourism service providers, were employed, underpinned by the Mandala health model. It uncovers that religious motives, cultural and environmental factors, and personal beliefs contribute to spiritual tourism and that Sri Lanka, rich in cultural and natural resources, is poised for spiritual tourism growth. The study emphasises understanding tourists' motives, behaviour, and the supply side, using the Mandala health model. It identifies a nexus between existential authenticity and commodification, posing challenges for sustainable spiritual tourism development in Sri Lanka.