When you stand before the majestic Sun Temple at Konark or drift along the tranquil waters of Chilika Lake as flocks of flamingos rise into the amber sky, you realise that Odisha is not just a destination, it is a discovery. A discovery of heritage, harmony, and hope. In recent years, Odisha has quietly and confidently redefined its tourism landscape, emerging as one of India’s most forward-looking states in sustainable, inclusive, and investment-driven tourism.
What was once known as India’s Best Kept Secret is now steadily becoming one of India’s most compelling success stories in responsible travel and destination development.
A Vision Beyond Tourism
Odisha’s approach to tourism is not limited to attracting visitors, it is about building an entire ecosystem where tourism becomes a catalyst for livelihood, infrastructure, and identity. Guided by the long-term roadmap under Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047, the State envisions transforming into one of Asia’s leading eco-cultural tourism hubs.
The Government’s vision is clear: to create
15 world-class master destinations by 2047 that celebrate Odisha’s nature, culture, and people. From the temple town of Puri and the marine paradise of Bhitarkanika to the misty hills of Daringbadi and the Buddhist heritage of Ratnagiri-Udayagiri-Lalitgiri, these destinations will serve as vibrant hubs of sustainable development.
This transformation is being driven by strategic planning, smart policy reforms, and an unwavering focus on community participation. Over 4,300 acres have been identified for destination development.
Private Investment:
The New Growth Engine
A defining feature of Odisha’s tourism resurgence is its commitment to public-private partnerships. The State is revising its leasing guidelines to simplify asset utilisation for Panthanivas, Panthashala, and Way Side Amenities, allowing private operators to bring innovation and efficiency into hospitality management.
Odisha’s tourism policy framework is evolving to be more inclusive, dynamic, and investor friendly. The proposed amendments to the Odisha Tourism Policy 2022 mark a bold step toward creating a balanced ecosystem that welcomes both big-ticket investors and grassroots entrepreneurs.
The policy’s scope is being broadened to embrace new-age tourism segments including Odia cuisine, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) facilities, museums, each designed to enrich the visitor experience while promoting innovation and sustainability.
This year alone, approximately 70 tourism and hospitality projects worth ₹4,500 crore have been approved through the single-window clearance system, reflecting the trust of private players in the State’s governance and stability.
Sustainability and Innovation:
Leading by Example
Odisha’s strength lies in its natural diversity, with 574 kilometres of coastline, lush forests, lakes, and hill ranges that offer infinite possibilities for eco and adventure tourism. The Odisha Adventure Tourism Guideline 2025 set a benchmark for safe, regulated, and sustainable adventure experiences ranging from surfing and kayaking along the coast to trekking, camping, and paragliding across the Eastern Ghats.
The soon-to-be-launched Go Adventure Portal will bring together investors, operators, and adventure enthusiasts on a single digital platform, streamlining permits, operations, and promotion.
Odisha’s cultural investments continue to shine. MoUs with NCSM for district museums and with IIT Madras for the conservation of heritage structures reflect a deep respect for preservation alongside progress. The Craft Village initiative in Raghurajpur, Pipili, and Kotpad is ensuring that traditional artisans remain integral to the tourism value chain.
The Road Ahead
By 2036, Odisha aims to expand its hotel inventory to 15,000 star-category rooms, generating lakhs of jobs and empowering youth across districts. By 2047, the goal is to reach 25,000 rooms and welcome over 5 crores domestic and 7 lakh foreign tourists annually.
But beyond these numbers lies a deeper purpose to make every traveller’s journey contribute to the prosperity of the people and the preservation of the land.
Odisha’s redefined tourism landscape is not built merely on infrastructure or incentives, it is built on ideals: sustainability, inclusivity, authenticity, and compassion.
As the waves of Puri meet the dawn over Konark and the forests of Similipal whisper ancient tales, Odisha stands poised to become India’s most welcoming and responsible tourism destination.
Because here, every journey tells a story, and every story begins with Odisha.
