Bhubaneswar, Oct 28 (UNI) Odisha has identified 17 priority destinations encompassing beaches, biodiversity zones, heritage monuments and areas of religious and cultural importance for integrated master-planning-based development, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said.

Welcoming the stakeholders of the travel and tourism industry to the 4th edition of Odisha Travel
Bazaar, a flagship event of Odisha Tourism here on Friday, Patnaik said the state will showcase India’s best-kept secrets.

Odisha, he said, has been taking focused strides to develop and introduce several niche tourism experiences.

The state, Patnaik said will be able to attract not just the finest brands in the business of travel and hospitality but also tourists looking for experiences that are bespoke with a fresh perspective.

Bhubaneswar today has evolved into the Sports Capital of India, and has been hosting international marquee events for the past few years, he added.

After successfully hosting the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, Odisha now has the rare opportunity of hosting FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup for the consecutive second time.

To make this sporting event truly world-class, India’s biggest Hockey Stadium is coming up in Rourkela, which, along with Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar will be hosting the matches in January 2023, Patnaik said.

CM further said “We are also tirelessly working towards enriching our tourism experiences by encouraging investments and enterprises in niche segments such as houseboat tourism, glamping, water-based adventure, camping and caravan tourism, heritage palace home stays and many more.

With so much to welcome the world, Odisha is ready to be one of the most happening places in India, Patnaik said and sought active contribution to market the beautiful state.

He welcomed the delegates to explore Odisha and become “our partners”.
UNI DP KK ARN