Summary:
- Odisha approved 55 hotel and accommodation projects since July 2024.
- The approvals target untapped destinations, especially tribal and remote areas.
- The projects will add more than 3,800 rooms and generate thousands of hospitality jobs.
INDIA’S ODISHA STATE government approved 55 hotel and accommodation projects since July 2024, with a total estimated cost of $390 million. These projects will add more than 3,800 rooms and generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the hospitality sector.
The move expands the state’s capacity to host domestic and international travelers, according to The Economic Times. The properties will be in untapped destinations, particularly tribal and remote areas. Koraput, Keonjhar, Kandhamal and Ganjam are seeing resort developments to serve travelers seeking natural and ecological experiences. While Bhubaneswar grows, there is a strategic push toward coastal and nature-based tourism.
The luxury segment includes World of Hyatt, ITC Hotels, and Accor in Bhubaneswar; Marriott Bonvoy in Puri; and Radisson Hotels in Ganjam and Puri, the Times reported. In Bhubaneswar, Ashirbad Engineering and Construction Pvt. Ltd. will develop a World of Hyatt project for $16.75 million, while ITC Hotels will set up a similar property for $14.35 million.
Official data show a rise in domestic and foreign tourist arrivals. Foreign visitors increased from just over 10,000 in 2020 to more than 53,000 in 2024–25, while domestic arrivals surpassed 11 million in the same period.
“Tourist choice is no longer limited to Puri, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar,” said Ananta Mohapatra, a city-based travel agent, according to ET. “People are also exploring tribal districts.”
Akash Patra, an industry analyst, said the quality of stay and services will meet international standards, and authorities should focus on supporting the projects.
ITC recently launched its “Epiq Collection” under its asset-right strategy, with one of the first hotels in Puri, Odisha.
