Beyond Caves, Rock Shelters and Rock Art: Leveraging Informatics for Open-Air Prehistoric Landscapes as Sustainable Tourism Destinations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65408/cird345973Keywords:
Culture, heritage, Informatics, Archeology, MonumentsAbstract
This paper explores the potential of India’s underrepresented open-air Lower Palaeolithic sites— such as Attirampakkam, Hunsgi-Baichbal, Didwana, Tikoda, and Paisra—as sustainable heritage tourism destinations. Unlike monumental or rock-art sites, these fragile landscapes feature subtle lithic scatters preserving vital evidence of early human behavior and environmental adaptation. Drawing comparisons with international models like Atapuerca, Olduvai Gorge, and Sangiran, the study highlights the importance of institutional management, controlled access, and community engagement. Furthermore, it emphasizes the integration of heritage informatics - including 3D photogrammetry, GIS mapping, digital archives, and AR/VR applications—to advance non-invasive documentation, protective conservation, and immersive public interpretation. Ultimately, the paper argues that combining traditional stewardship with digital informatics bridges the gap between scientific research and public awareness, strengthening India’s cultural tourism while safeguarding its deep prehistoric past.
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