Odisha’s Bold Tourism Vision: Adventure, Heritage, and World-Class Facilities

Bhubaneswar: In a dynamic push to position Odisha as one of India’s top tourism hubs, Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida has outlined an expansive strategy to develop the state’s tourism sector. With plans that span eco-tourism, heritage corridors, adventure experiences, and even a new international airport in Puri, Parida envisions a bright future for Odisha’s tourism industry. She unveiled these plans at the FinancialExpress.com Adventure Tourism Meet (ATM) held in Shillong on October 4, where she served as the Chief Guest. 

New Developments and Thematic Circuits 

Odisha has embarked on a mission to enhance its tourist appeal by creating specialized tourism circuits that will showcase the state’s rich cultural and natural assets. These circuits include: 

• Buddhist Circuit: A route designed for those interested in Odisha's ancient Buddhist heritage. 
• Ekamra Corridor: A spiritual corridor in Bhubaneswar that celebrates the city’s heritage. 
• Puri-Konark Heritage Corridor: An upcoming destination that seeks to deepen the historical and cultural experience for visitors to Odisha’s most iconic sites. 

Adventure and nature tourism are also high on the agenda, with areas like Deomali—Odisha’s highest mountain range—slated for adventure sports development. Simlipal’s wildlife sanctuary, Hirakud’s riverfront, and the Bhitarkanika wetlands will soon be enhanced for eco-tourism, offering unique outdoor experiences for nature enthusiasts. 

Developing a Global Tourist Destination: Big Hotel Projects and a New Airport 

To support the growing influx of tourists, the state government has proposed an international airport in Puri, which will make Odisha more accessible to global visitors. Parida stated that this move, alongside invitations to major hotel chains, would attract investment and elevate Puri and Konark’s status as world-class tourist hubs. 

“With an airport in Puri and the development of luxury hotels, we want to ensure that our visitors have a memorable and convenient experience. This will not only boost our local economy but also create significant employment opportunities,” Parida said. 

Adventure Tourism: Odisha’s Untapped Potential 

The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s immense potential for adventure tourism, with diverse offerings such as trekking, scuba diving, and water sports at sites like the Silver City Boat Club in Cuttack. While Odisha has an adventure tourism policy in place since 2022, Parida hopes to put it into action soon, enhancing the state’s ability to cater to younger, adventure-seeking travelers. 

Reflecting on her visit to the Adventure Tourism Meet, Parida shared that she gained valuable insights from other states and industry experts. 

“The exchange of ideas was highly beneficial. We are excited to apply these learnings in Odisha, and we invite all the experts to come and experience Odisha’s unique charm firsthand,” she stated. 

Inspiration from Meghalaya’s Cherrapunji Caves 

During her visit to Meghalaya, Parida explored the caves of Cherrapunji, an experience that she described as mesmerizing. She also visited homestays in the area, learning from local operators how they engage with tourists. Inspired by their efforts, she expressed a desire to develop homestays in Odisha, providing authentic local experiences for visitors while empowering local communities. 

Odisha’s Award-Winning Tourism Village: Maniabandha 

Odisha recently earned national recognition with the village of Maniabandha receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ award from the Government of India. This village is renowned for its vibrant textile tradition, where each home serves as a small-scale cottage industry. Parida praised Maniabandha’s achievement, noting that it reflects Odisha’s unique cultural richness and commitment to preserving heritage. 

Making Odisha’s Eco Retreats Accessible 

To increase accessibility, the Odisha government has announced plans to make its popular Eco Retreats more affordable. These retreats, known for offering luxurious nature-based stays, are now being made more budget-friendly, allowing a broader spectrum of visitors to experience Odisha’s scenic beauty and serene landscapes. 

Offbeat Destinations to Attract New Visitors 

Odisha is also looking beyond its established tourist sites to develop offbeat destinations that can offer new experiences to visitors. This will include remote and lesser-known locations that promise unique adventures and peaceful escapes from crowded tourist spots. 
With these visionary initiatives, Parida believes that Odisha will witness a surge in tourism, which will significantly contribute to the state’s economy. 

“Tourism can be a game-changer for Odisha, and we are committed to nurturing this sector to create jobs and drive economic growth in each tourist destination across the state,” she emphasized. 

Odisha’s Tourism Roadmap: A Transformative Future 

The roadmap laid out by Parida is ambitious and comprehensive, spanning infrastructural developments, cultural preservation, eco-friendly initiatives, and adventure activities. Odisha, with its stunning coastlines, diverse landscapes, and heritage sites, is poised to offer a holistic travel experience that appeals to both domestic and international travelers. 
As Odisha continues to expand its tourism offerings, the state is set to become a prime destination for tourists seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Parida’s vision reflects a deep commitment to sustainable tourism that will empower local communities, boost the state’s economy, and shine a spotlight on the limitless potential of Odisha’s rich tourism landscape.