Present research paper is based on medical tourism of hot springs in Khandesh region as a new hope ray of medical tourism in Maharashtra. The term Geopharmacology consist with geography and pharmacology in which geographical components are studied from medicinal and tourism point of views. These points of views are useful for the wellness of human being. In Khandesh region, there are three perennial hot springs namely Ramtalab, Unapdev and Anakdev. The present research has been of geopharmacology work as a multi-disciplinary and multi applicability discipline of geography of health. The research methodology for geopharmacology is comprehensively elucidated encompassing a diverse array of approaches. The hot springs are holding significant cultural and medicinal importance. Traditionally revered for their healing properties, these natural thermal waters have attracted visitors seeking relief from various ailments for centuries. In the research on hot springs in Khandesh, Maharashtra, offers valuable insights into their social, cultural, religious, and economic significance. By comparing this research with studies conducted in other regions, we can identify common themes and variations in the perceptions and attitudes towards hot springs across different cultural contexts. While the research in Khandesh highlights the need for awareness initiatives, preservation of cultural heritage, and inclusive development practices, similar concerns and priorities are evident in studies from other regions as well. Overall, understanding the multifaceted nature of hot springs and their importance to local communities is crucial for promoting sustainable development and preserving cultural and environmental integrity.
In many cultures, hot springs are regarded as sacred places with healing properties for both the body and the mind. Practices such as thermal bathing, spa treatments and wellness retreats centred on hot springs are deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs surrounding health, rejuvenation and holistic well-being. Khandesh region of Maharashtra
Regions rich in thermal waters, such as Japan, Iceland, and Hungary, have long attracted international visitors seeking therapeutic benefits. Medical tourism, particularly around hot springs, is a growing global industry, combining health benefits with travel. Research has shown that hot springs can offer relief from conditions like arthritis, skin diseases, and stress-related disorders (Kumar & Raj, 2021). In Europe, destinations like Hungary’s Hévíz Lake are recognized for their healing properties and attract medical tourists globally (Varga et al., 2019). In Japan, onsen therapy is deeply integrated into health tourism, with over 27,000 hot springs promoting both wellness and cultural experiences (Takahashi, 2020). Additionally, studies have noted that the economic impact of medical tourism is significant, boosting local economies and creating jobs in the healthcare and hospitality sectors (Smith & Chang, 2022). As awareness increases, the market for medical tourism linked to hot springs is expected to expand, driven by both traditional healing and modern wellness trends.
Hot springs in Khandesh region located at Unapdev (A) Hot Spring, Adawad, 21°15'57"N 75°25'52"E, Ramtalav (B) hot spring, Near Vardi Village, Chopda 21°16'58"N 75°24'31"E, Anakdev (C), Dara Shahada, 21°43'47"N 74°26'31"E. All these tree hot springs are situated along the Dolerite dyke faults and fractures with almost parallel to the strike line of southern Satpura mountains foot hill of river Tapi valley.
The concept of geopharmacology, which links the medicinal properties of these springs with their geographical features, is the underlying principle of this study. By elaborating on the cultural, medicinal and economic significance of these hot springs. The research attempts to understand their broader value in the context of medical tourism. The main objective of this paper is to explore the medicinal properties of these hot springs and their relationship with medical tourism.
GPS (Geographical Position System) mapping has been used to study the distribution of hot springs and the accessibility of these sites. This method allowed for detailed spatial analysis to assess the environmental surrounding conditions of the springs and their suitability for tourism development. In the current study, the researchers had to complete sampling from different hot spring locations in the Khandesh region in accordance with the 2011 Census of India. Researchers have selected 300 Male & Female citizens from respective areas of the hot spring region of Khandesh, by using the purposive sampling method for his research study. The data has analyzed to identify the health benefits, cultural significance, and economic impact of the hot springs. So, the present research studies to investigate socio-cultural as well as medical tourism importance through the local citizens in the Khandesh region by using Chi-square techniques.
Across the world, hot springs are significant both medically and culturally. Known for their medicinal qualities, their mineral-rich waters provide relief from stress, skin disorders, and arthritis (Kumar & Raj, 2021). Hot springs are an important aspect of many cultural traditions; in Japan, taking an onsen bath is a health and relaxation ritual (Takahashi, 2020) and in Hungary, thermal baths are a vital component of social life that combines community and wellbeing (Varga et al., 2019). Hot springs are becoming more and more popular in international medical tourism due to its combination of health advantages and cultural value. In Maharashtra (Dnyaneshwar & Kailas 2024)
Hot springs are social hubs that promote leisure and social contact; they are essential to global cultural practices. They play an important role in the ritual and recreational aspects of Iceland's geothermal baths and Japan's onsen culture (Steyn & Pienaar, 2008)
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
174 |
58 |
147.120 |
77.929 |
|
No |
120 |
40 |
||
|
Neutral |
6 |
02 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
Smith, J., & Jones, A. (2021)
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
210 |
70 |
188.72 |
77.929 |
|
No |
64 |
21 |
||
|
Neutral |
26 |
09 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
The results of the chi-square test in
Fioravanti, A., & Cantarini, L. (2022) address the effectiveness and mechanisms of action of balneotherapy, which includes hot springs, in the management and treatment of rheumatic disorders. The therapeutic effects of thermal mineral waters on a variety of skin illnesses are reviewed by Lotti, T., & Ghersetich, I. (2022), Tourists responded as follows regarding medical tourism and natural treatment at hot springs in Khandesh.
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
215 |
72 |
213.5. |
77.929 |
|
No |
70 |
23 |
||
|
Neutral |
15 |
05 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
The results of the chi-square test in
Lee, S., & Park, K. (2022)
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
180 |
60 |
98.00 |
77.929 |
|
No |
50 |
17 |
||
|
Neutral |
70 |
23 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
The results of the chi-square test in
A meta-analysis by Garcia, M., & Martinez, E. (2022)
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
193 |
64 |
129.98. |
77.929 |
|
No |
50 |
17 |
||
|
Neutral |
57 |
19 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
The results of the chi-square test in
Wang, L., & Zhang, H. (2021)
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|
|
|
|
|
|
Yes |
209 |
70 |
185.82. |
77.929 |
|
No |
65 |
22 |
||
|
Neutral |
26 |
08 |
||
|
Total |
300 |
100 |
Source: Computed by Researchers, 2023
The results of the chi-square test in
Analysis of the data indicated according to most of local’s its preferred about protection of Hot springs water is needed. The Khandesh region in Maharashtra is renowned for its natural heritage, including the diverse GEO heritage sites Ramtalav, Unpadev, and Anakdev. A
Based on all the above discussion, the Khandesh region has a rich heritage of hot springs, and these hot springs have highly social cultural as well and ritual customs and beliefs. It is valuable insights into their social, cultural, religious, and economic significance. By comparing this research with studies conducted in other regions, we can identify common themes and variations in the perceptions and attitudes towards hot springs across different cultural contexts. While the research in Khandesh highlights the need for awareness initiatives, preservation of cultural heritage, and inclusive development practices, similar concerns and priorities are evident in studies from other regions as well. Overall, understanding the multifaceted nature of hot springs and their importance to local communities is crucial for promoting sustainable development and preserving cultural and environmental integrity (Suryawanshi & Patil 2019)
Dear Respondent, the following questionnaire is primarily based on the "Unpadev Hot Springs" and consists of 15 questions. You are required to select one option from 'Yes', 'No', or 'Uncertain' for each question. There is no right or wrong answer, as the purpose is to gather information/opinions. The information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used solely for research purposes. There are no time constraints, and if you face any difficulties in understanding a question, feel free to ask the researcher.
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1. Are you aware that there are hot springs in the Khandesh region? |
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2. Do you know about the hot spring located here? |
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3. Do you think the hot spring has social and religious significance? |
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4. Do you think the hot spring is culturally significant? |
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5. Do you participate in festivals or rituals held near the hot spring? |
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6. Do you pass on the importance of hot springs to the next generation? |
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7. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh are important from a social and cultural perspective? |
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8. Is the sanctity of the hot springs in Khandesh being maintained? |
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9. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh are a natural heritage that needs to be preserved? |
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10. Can the hot springs in Khandesh play a significant role in the socio-economic development of locals? |
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11. Are you aware that bathing in the hot spring water can cure skin diseases? |
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12. Are you aware that bathing in the hot spring water regularly reduces fatigue and stress? |
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13. Do you know that the hot spring contains minerals and microorganisms beneficial for skin diseases? |
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14. Are you aware that hot springs worldwide are used for Balneotherapy and spa treatments? |
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15. Do you think Unpadev hot spring water should be used to develop modern Balneotherapy and spa centers? |
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16. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh are beneficial for skin disorders and mental health? |
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17. Should the hot springs in Khandesh be developed as health and tourism centers by the government or NGOs? |
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18. Do you think there is a lack of tourism and healthcare facilities near the hot springs in Khandesh? |
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19. Do you think there should be more promotion of the health and tourism aspects of Khandesh's hot springs? |
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20. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh will play an important role in the development of the tribal and hilly areas in the future? |
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21. Do you think the Unpadev hot spring area is suitable for a tourism center? |
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22. Are you aware that hot springs are being developed as medical tourism centers globally? |
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23. Are there medical tourism facilities available in the Unpadev hot spring area? |
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24. Do you regularly use the Unpadev hot spring area for medical tourism purposes? |
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25. Do you think the Unpadev hot spring area should be developed as a medical tourism center? |
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26. Do you think using the hot springs in Khandesh for medical purposes can benefit people's health? |
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27. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh should be developed into medical tourism centers? |
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28. Do you think the government should provide world-class facilities at the hot spring sites in Khandesh? |
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29. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh can boost the tourism industry? |
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30. Do you think the hot springs in Khandesh will play a significant role in the development of social, cultural, and medical tourism in the region? |
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