The untapped potential of peripheral regions: A comprehensive analysis of the status, challenges, and prospects of the tourism and hospitality industry in Pabna

This study aims to evaluate the current status, key challenges, and potential prospects of the tourism and hospitality industry (THI) in Pabna, Bangladesh. It seeks to provide actionable insights that can support regional tourism development. A mixed-method approach was used, incorporating both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through surveys using stratified sampling and interview with conveniently selected respondents, while secondary sources included books, articles, blogs, and official records. Tourist destinations in Pabna were categorized into four types: Archaeological Sites, Cultural Heritage Sites, Man-Made Theme Parks, and Nature and Water-Based Destinations. Tourist numbers rose from 145,756 in 2018 to 348,751 in 2023, indicating growth rates of 22% to 139%, excluding a 62% decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key challenges identified include a shortage of skilled workforce, political instability, inadequate infrastructure, low employee wages, high tourist costs, poor transportation, and weak conservation efforts. Despite these obstacles, the ongoing expansion of parks and resorts, along with opportunities for infrastructure upgrades and promotional efforts, signals strong growth potential. Enhancing infrastructure, improving service quality, preserving heritage sites, and promoting cultural and religious tourism can boost local employment and economic development in the region. The findings are based on data from 150 respondents selected through stratified random sampling and 10 interviewees selected through non-random sampling, which may introduce potential bias. Broader and longitudinal studies are recommended for more robust insights. This study contributes to the understanding of regional tourism in Bangladesh, highlighting the roles of infrastructure, service quality, and policy in promoting sustainable tourism growth.