ANALYSIS OF TOURIST INFLOW AND TOURISM GROWTH IN MUNGER DISTRICT, BIHAR, INDIA

The present study examines the pattern of tourist inflow and tourism growth in Munger District of Bihar over the period 2015–2024. Based on secondary data collected from official sources, the study analyses year-wise domestic and foreign tourist arrivals and corresponding growth rates using descriptive and trend-based techniques. The results reveal that tourism in Munger district experienced a phase of moderate and stable growth during 2015–2018, followed by a sharp increase in 2019, indicating growing recognition of the district as a religious and cultural destination. The tourism sector suffered a severe setback during 2020–2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in unprecedented negative growth. However, the post-pandemic period witnessed a strong recovery, with a remarkable surge in tourist inflow and high growth rates during 2022–2024. The analysis clearly establishes a direct and positive relationship between tourist inflow and tourism growth. The study highlights the emerging tourism potential of Munger district and emphasises the need for planned and sustainable tourism development. Keywords: Tourist Inflow, Tourism Growth Rate, COVID- 19 Pandemic, Tourism Potential, Sustainable Development.