Abstract

Although research on heritage sites has become a major theme of study, unique attractions in sensitive destinations such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India (ANI) still remain a challenge for international researchers especially concerning access to get to, and tough permit related formalities. Nevertheless, the ANI have been globally recognized as a location containing potential sites for World Heritage Listing in the recent past by local and international authorities (e.g. IUCN), and as a suitable platform to conduct research on visitor management, initiate community participation and identify sustainable development and tourism planning approaches in sensitive areas. Whether these benefits can be realized in such an environment needs to be subject to critical scrutiny, however, and it was the purpose of the UNESCO commissioned research conducted in one of the remotest and most sensitive destinations in the world. The proposed conference paper aims to examine the issues associated with the selection and recommendation of World Heritage Sites in the ANI. It would explore the benefits of sustainable tourism development and conservation measures that the designation could bring to the ANI, in the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami. The appropriate research methods adopted to consult a wide range of stakeholders will be discussed whilst addressing the key findings, challenges facing the potential properties and recommendations for in-depth research comparing heritage sites, elsewhere. The paper will be particularly useful for researchers working in themes such as natural heritage, World Heritage Sites and sustainable tourism and small Islands.