Odisha is often touted as India’s best-kept secret. Known for its ancient temples, pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich tribal culture, the state is all set to have 13 new eco-tourism spots. Scroll for details. By Karan Kaushik
10 eco-retreats and 3 nature camps to be set up in Odisha
With an aim to preserve nature and support the livelihoods of the local communities, the Odisha government is developing 13 new eco-tourism destinations in the state. These include 10 eco-retreats and three nature camps. While the eco-retreats will offer overnight lodging facilities for visitors, nature camps are being developed for day visitors.
The destinations where these eco-retreats are being set up include Koraput’s Deomali hilltop and Kotia, Kalahandi’s Jakam, Similipal’s Nawana, Phulbani’s Silviculture, Puri’s Astaranga, Rairangpur’s Khadakhai dam, Behrampur’s Mahendragiri, and Keonjhar’s Kanjipani Ghat and Hadagarh dam.
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As far as the three nature camps are concerned, these are being set up in Koraput’s Rani Duduma, Cuttack’s Dhaltangarh, and Nayagarh’s Bhandarpahar. Odisha is already one of the most sought-after eco-tourism destinations in India. These new eco-tourism sites will take the total count of eco-retreats and nature camps in the state to 63.
Travellers will be able to book these new eco-retreats online. According to a report published in Hindustan Times, the state government has invested INR 95 Cr in developing these eco-destinations.
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The eco-tourism project aims to help the local communities, who can share their traditional knowledge with guests and provide them with an enriching experience. The government will also train the locals in hospitality and how to maintain their eco-retreats.
The destinations that have been chosen for these eco-retreats and nature camps have garnered popularity among conscious travellers over the past few years. In 2021-2022, these destinations were visited by an impressive number of eco-tourists from all over India and even abroad. According to the state government, there has been a 142 percent increase in tourist footfall at these destinations in the last five years.
Feature and hero image courtesy: Shutterstock
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