Odisha Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Focus on Sustainable Transformation

Bhubaneswar, Sept 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” showcasing the State’s commitment to heritage preservation, community empowerment, and sustainability.

Across Odisha, the day was marked by vibrant activities. District-level events featured quizzes on culture and sustainability, engaging schools and colleges. At Biju Patnaik International Airport, visitors were welcomed with traditional tilak, floral tributes, and cultural displays reflecting Odisha’s renowned hospitality.

Odisha Walks organised a heritage trail around Bindusagar Lake in Ekamra Kshetra, Bhubaneswar. Despite heavy rains, participants took part in storytelling sessions that highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the area, emphasizing the role of tourism in bridging culture, community, and sustainability. The walk concluded with a traditional breakfast and the ceremonial cutting of a Chennapodha cake.

The celebrations culminated with a Cultural Evening at Rabindra Mandap, attended by dignitaries including Shri Babu Singh, MLA, Ekamra Bhubaneswar; Shri Prasanna Pradhan, Airport Director, BPIA; Dr. Nanda Kishor, Superintending Archaeologist, ASI; and senior Tourism Department officials. The evening featured the release of Paribrajaka 2025, the Department’s annual souvenir, and a cultural performance by the Paryatan Bibhaga Sanskrutika Parishad, presenting the play “ଆଞ୍ଜଳୁ ଆଏ ଲୁହ.”

A key initiative involved collaboration with young social media influencers to amplify Odisha’s heritage, culture, and sustainable tourism messages globally. The Department also conducted a cleanliness drive at the UNESCO World Heritage Konark Sun Temple, reinforcing responsible tourism practices through active participation from students, volunteers, and local communities.

Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida highlighted the significance of tourism as a driver for sustainable transformation, noting Odisha’s timeless culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Odisha’s tourism achievements include recognition as the Best Spiritual Destination (Puri), Best Tourism Village (Maniabandha), and Best Beach Destination (Blue Flag Beach, Puri). Strategic projects under SASCI, Swadesh Darshan, and PRASHAD are improving infrastructure at destinations like Hirakud, Satkosia, Debrigarh, Deomali, Khiching, Ranipur-Jharial, and Kakatpur. Over the past year, 69 private projects worth ₹4,364 crore were approved, while ₹25 crore has been allocated to enhance visitor amenities across 30 destinations.

Reforms such as the Adventure Tourism Guidelines 2025, the revised Homestay Policy, and the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana aim to ensure safety, quality, and inclusive tourism experiences. Odisha continues to strengthen its global presence through participation in international forums including WTM London and ATM Dubai.

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