The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, marked World Tourism Day 2025 with a series of vibrant events centred on the global theme of “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
From interactive quizzes and heritage walks to cultural performances and cleanliness drives, the celebrations underscored Odisha’s commitment to blending tourism with environmental stewardship and community empowerment.
The day kicked off with district-level activities, including quiz competitions focused on sustainability and cultural themes, drawing enthusiastic participation from students across schools and colleges.
At Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, arriving visitors were greeted with traditional tilak applications, floral tributes, and thematic banners, showcasing the state’s renowned hospitality.
A highlight of the festivities was the heritage trail organised by Odisha Walks in Ekamra Kshetra, around the historic Bindusagar Lake. Despite heavy rains, participants immersed themselves in storytelling sessions that revived the area’s rich history and spiritual significance.
The event emphasised tourism’s role as a catalyst for cultural preservation and sustainable practices, ending on a delightful note with a traditional breakfast and the cutting of a Chhena Poda cake.
Celebrations in Odisha
The celebrations reached their pinnacle with a Cultural Evening at Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar. Attended by prominent figures such as Babu Singh, MLA of Ekamra Bhubaneswar; Prasanna Pradhan, Airport Director of BPIA; Dr. Nanda Kishor, Superintending Archaeologist of ASI (Bhubaneswar Circle); and Prem Singh, Regional Passport Officer, the event featured the ceremonial lamp lighting and the release of *Paribrajaka 2025*, the department’s annual souvenir.
MLA Babu Singh delivered a special address, followed by a captivating performance of the play “ଆଞ୍ଜଳୁଆଏ ଲୁହ” by the Paryatan Bibhaga Sanskrutika Parishad.
In an innovative move, the Tourism Department partnered with young social media influencers and digital creators to amplify Odisha’s cultural narratives and promote sustainable tourism. This collaboration aims to engage global audiences through creative content, highlighting the state’s heritage in a modern, relatable way.
Further aligning with the theme, a special cleanliness drive and awareness campaign were held at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konark Sun Temple. Volunteers, students, and local stakeholders joined forces to emphasise responsible tourism and the preservation of iconic monuments.
Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida shared her vision on X:
On this #WorldTourismDay2025, we celebrate tourism as a force for sustainable transformation. Odisha’s timeless culture, natural wonders & warm hospitality make it a destination where every journey preserves heritage & nurtures the future.
इस #WorldTourismDay2025 पर हम पर्यटन… https://t.co/IHB5vaQRGB
— Pravati Parida (@PravatiPOdisha) September 27, 2025
Odisha Tourism: Vision and Achievements
Odisha’s tourism strategy has garnered significant acclaim over the past year. The state was recognised nationally as Best Spiritual Destination for Puri, Best Tourism Village for Maniabandha, and Best Beach Destination for its Blue Flag Beach in Puri.
Infrastructure enhancements under schemes like SASCI, Swadesh Darshan, and PRASHAD are underway at key sites, including Hirakud, Satkosia, Debrigarh, Deomali, Khiching, Ranipur-Jharial, and Kakatpur.
Private investments are booming, with 69 projects worth ₹4,364 crore approved recently. To prioritise safety and inclusivity, ₹25 crore has been allocated for visitor amenities at 30 destinations, including lifeguards, tourist police, sanitation initiatives, and watchtowers.
Reforms such as the Adventure Tourism Guidelines 2025, revised Homestay Policy, and Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana are fostering quality experiences.
On the global front, Odisha’s participation in events like WTM London and ATM Dubai has boosted its profile as a top tourism and investment hub.
As Odisha continues its sustainable transformation, these initiatives position the state as a model for responsible tourism, where economic growth harmonises with cultural and environmental preservation.
