7th Eco-Retreat Begins at Konark, Odisha Eyes Top Eco-Cultural Tourism Spot in Asia

Bhubaneswar: With a strong focus on sustainability and experiential tourism, the Tourism Department launched the 7th edition of the Odisha Eco-Retreat near Ramchandi Muhan on the scenic Puri–Konark Marine Drive, an initiative formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the Eco-Retreat as one of the state’s most innovative and impactful tourism initiatives, noting that it has added a new dimension to Odisha’s tourism offerings. He said such eco-friendly destinations have the potential to host high-level engagements, including cabinet and ministerial meetings, at some of Odisha’s most iconic tourist locations.

Majhi said the Eco-Retreat has brought national visibility to Odisha and has set a benchmark for other states in promoting eco-tourism through sustainable practices. He emphasised that tourism is not only a means of attracting visitors but also a powerful engine for employment generation, cultural promotion and local economic development.

Sharing the state’s long-term vision, the Chief Minister said Odisha is working towards positioning itself among Asia’s top five Eco-Cultural Tourism hubs by 2036. He added that by 2047, the state aims to welcome around 50 million domestic tourists and 7 lakh international visitors every year. Achieving these goals, he said, would require robust public-private partnerships to create quality infrastructure and unique tourism experiences.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida highlighted the need to further strengthen and globalise the Eco-Retreat concept, suggesting innovative approaches to attract international tourists. Senior officials and stakeholders also deliberated on strategies to ensure that tourism growth remains sustainable while delivering tangible benefits to local communities.

Stressing the need for preparedness, the Chief Minister said Odisha cannot rely on conventional tourism models in the face of rising tourist inflows. He underscored that timely planning and the adoption of PPP models are crucial to making Odisha a preferred tourism destination while safeguarding its ecological and cultural assets.