Coming soon, 13 new eco-tourism sites in Odisha

The state of Odisha, in order to promote eco-tourism, has given a nod of approval to 13 new eco-tourism destinations in the state. Out of the 13, ten are earmarked for eco-retreats with overnight stay facilities (lodging), and three are nature camps for day visitors.

Under this new eco-tourism project, we will get to see more involvement of the local communities in the field of hospitality and maintenance of the sites. The idea is to give a chance to the local communities to earn livelihood from this and also to better manage the sites and conserve these locations along with the traditional knowledge of the local communities.


It is no secret that conservation of nature has always brought beneficial results for everyone, especially for the local communities. There are also talks of forming eco-tourism societies where possible.


Under the new project, new eco cottages will be set up in Kotia and Deomali hilltop in Koraput, Jakam in Kalahandi, Nawana in Simlipal, Silviculture garden in Phulbani, Muhana Muhana (Astaranga) in Puri, Khadakhai dam in Rairangpur, Mahendragiri (Ganjam) in Berhampur, and Kanjipani Ghat and Hadagarh dam in Keonjhar forest division.



Very soon, Odisha will have a total of 63 eco-retreats and nature camps, including the latest 13. A lot of thought has been put into developing these eco-tourism sites. The state has also seen the growing popularity of these eco-tourism destinations, and the response is not only from the local tourists, but also tourists from all over the country and the world.


These eco-tourism destinations are constantly seeing a rise in the number of visitors. Last year, 2021-2022, saw the most number of visitors visiting these eco-tourism destinations.

1. When is the best time to visit Odisha?
   October to March is the best time to visit Odisha.
2. Is Deomali a good place to visit?
   Deomali is a beautiful hill destination in the state of Odisha. Deomali is also one of the highest peaks in the Eastern Ghats.
3. Which is the nearest airport to reach Simlipal National Park?
   Jamshedpur Airport is the nearest airport, It is approximately three hours drive. Bhubaneswar Airport is about four hours from Simlipal.