In a significant push to elevate Odisha’s tourism sector, the state government has initiated comprehensive development plans for two iconic destinations — Deomali, the state’s highest peak, and the historic Jain twin hills of Khandagiri-Udayagiri — under the Centre’s flagship Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme.
Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both sites will soon be submitted to the Union Ministry of Tourism, paving the way for large-scale infrastructure upgrades, better connectivity, and enhanced visitor experiences.
Additional Secretary of the Tourism Department, Rudra Narayan Das, has directed the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) to prepare the DPRs and furnish all necessary documents, including geographical profiles, connectivity details, tourist footfall projections, employment generation estimates, land details, and high-quality photographs and maps. The proposals will be uploaded online through the PMAIS portal.
Why These Two Sites Matter
- Deomali, located in Koraput district, stands as Odisha’s tallest mountain and offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it a prime destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts.
- Khandagiri-Udayagiri, on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, is a treasure trove of ancient Jain rock-cut caves dating back over 2,000 years, boasting exquisite carvings and immense historical significance.
Officials believe that the holistic development of these sites will not only attract more domestic and international tourists but also create substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities for local communities during both construction and operational phases.
The move aligns with the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 vision of transforming key tourism circuits across India into world-class destinations while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.
