Odisha Welcomes More than One Lakh Foreign Tourists in Five Years, Driving their Economic Growth and Regional Development with the Post-Pandemic Tourism Rise

Published on December 7, 2025

Odisha has seen a remarkable rise in the number of foreign tourist arrivals, with 1,33,161 international visitors arriving in the state over the last five years, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who is also in charge of the Tourism Department, today said. The fact that foreign tourism in the state is growing steadily, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects the success of the state’s efforts in promotion of Odisha as a travel destination.

Parida presented these figures in a reply to a written question by BJP MLA Tankadhar Tripathy. While the pandemic had resulted in a decrease in tourist numbers at 2,269 foreign visitors in 2021, tourism had picked up much steam with a surge of foreign tourists from 10,206 visitors in 2020 to 22,171 in 2022, 45,173 in 2023, and 53,392 in 2024. This shows a post-pandemic improvement in Odisha’s diverse attractions, from its heritage sites to its natural landscapes.

Expanding Economic Benefits and Employment Opportunities

The increase in foreign tourists is having a direct economic impact on local businesses and the tourism sector. In 2025, hotel occupancy rates surged, local restaurants saw increased demand, and tourism-related services such as transportation and guided tours experienced higher bookings. This economic boost extends beyond just the tourism industry, benefiting sectors such as local crafts, retail, and agriculture, which serve both tourists and local communities.

Looking to the future, the rise in foreign tourism will continue to stimulate employment in the state, particularly in hospitality, tourism management, and eco-tourism. By enhancing tourism infrastructure and improving service standards, Odisha is preparing to meet the future demand of eco-conscious travelers and those seeking cultural immersion experiences. The long-term economic impact of these investments will be felt across the state, contributing to job creation, community development, and the sustainable growth of tourism in rural areas as well.

Sustainable Tourism for Long-Term Impact

The Sustainable Tourism Development Plan, aligned with India’s tourism goals, positions Odisha to be a leader in eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices. As part of the state’s strategy to preserve its natural landscapes and cultural heritage, initiatives such as the development of eco-retreats at scenic spots like Bhitarkanika, Daringibadi, and Sonapur will help position Odisha as a top destination for responsible travelers.

The rise in eco-tourism will lead to increased demand for sustainable accommodation and activities that minimize environmental impact. This, in turn, will boost local tourism initiatives while ensuring that natural resources are protected for future generations. As global travelers become more aware of sustainability issues, Odisha’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism will strengthen its reputation as a leading sustainable destination.

Infrastructure Investment for Future Growth

One of the key elements of Odisha’s tourism growth strategy is significant investment in infrastructure. The state is upgrading transportation facilities, enhancing airport capacities, and improving road networks to cater to the increasing number of international visitors. These investments will not only improve access to popular tourist sites but also enable the development of new tourism routes and experiences that appeal to a broader range of travelers.

In the future, these infrastructure upgrades will facilitate regional connectivity, creating easier access to both urban and rural destinations in the state. This will make it more convenient for tourists to explore Odisha’s diverse offerings, from beach resorts and historical sites to eco-tourism destinations. With the continued growth of tourism infrastructure, Odisha will position itself as a prime travel destination for both domestic and international markets.

Expanding Global Tourism Partnerships and Market Reach

The increase in foreign tourist arrivals is also a reflection of Odisha’s successful global outreach efforts. The state is participating in key international travel fairs and building strategic partnerships with tourism operators in China, Europe, and other major markets. These partnerships will help Odisha maintain its visibility in the competitive global tourism market, driving continued growth in tourist arrivals from countries like Russia, Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

In the future, these international collaborations will help Odisha’s tourism sector continue to grow, attracting a diverse range of visitors from emerging tourism markets such as the Nordic countries, Poland, and Austria. By tapping into new markets and expanding its tourism offerings, Odisha will secure its place as a global tourism leader, creating new opportunities for cross-border tourism and cultural exchanges.

A Bright Future for Odisha’s Tourism Sector

The increase in foreign tourist arrival to Odisha, witnessed over the last few years, corroborates the success of the tourism strategy of the State, thus building a ground for further momentum in the future. Odisha seeks to position itself as a leading destination for eco-conscious and authentic experience travelers by focusing on sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and infrastructure development.

With further investments in tourism infrastructure, community involvement, and international promotions, Odisha is bound for long-term success in the tourism sector, benefiting both the local economy and the world tourism industry as a whole. The future of Odisha tourism, therefore, is bright as the state strives to develop its tourist products and receive visitors from every corner of the globe, thus retaining the status of one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia.