Globally, the tourism sector is now recognised as one of the major engines of industrialization and growth, accounting for 14% of world GDP and being one of the largest international sectors with the largest share of foreign exchange earnings. According to the World Tourism Organisation, by 2030, the world will have 1.9 billion tourists, or 23% of the world’s population. The World Tourism Organisation also predicts that the next five to 10 years will see a dramatic increase in the variety available to travellers seeking an authentic rural experience. In most rural areas of India, rural tourism is seen as an emerging strategy for preserving cultural heritage and achieving sustainable development. The Indian rural tourism industry aims to preserve the culture of rural India, create jobs, address issues of poverty, and help local communities live sustainably by enhancing growing local economies through tradition and the revival of arts and crafts. This article aims to highlight the potential of rural tourism in India. Measures such as improved awareness, business partnerships, historical and cultural education, and increased accessibility can be used to realise the potential of rural tourism, which in turn can provide local communities with an improved