THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
FEBRUARY 4, 2026
“These caravans will enable tourists
to experience Odisha’s serene natural landscapes at their own pace, supported
by well-designed amenities that combine convenience with sustainability,” said
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida while flagging off three Tourism
Caravans at Dhauli on Wednesday, marking a significant step toward promoting
experiential and nature-based tourism in the state.
The initiative introduces caravan
tourism as a unique and immersive travel option that offers visitors enhanced
flexibility, privacy and freedom of movement.
Highlighting the global popularity of
such tourism models, Parida noted that caravan tourism is well-established
across several European countries. Odisha’s foray into this segment is aimed at
attracting young travellers, adventure enthusiasts and offbeat explorers who
seek authentic travel experiences beyond conventional destinations.
Addressing the gathering,
Bhubaneswar-Ekamra MLA Babu Singh welcomed the initiative, stating that it will
help tourists discover new destinations with greater comfort and safety. He
appreciated the government’s proactive efforts to diversify tourism offerings
and enhance visitor experiences across the state.
Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries, Tourism
Department Director Deepankar Mohapatra
said caravan tourism will play a key role in promoting balanced regional
development by facilitating tourist dispersal beyond traditional tourism
hotspots. He added that the initiative would not only ease pressure on popular
destinations but also create new opportunities for lesser-explored regions with
immense tourism potential.
The project has been launched by the
Department of Tourism under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model and will be
operated and managed by Sand and Pebble Tours. Several scenic and culturally
rich destinations such as Hirakud, Similipal, Daringbadi, Deomali, Talsari,
Pentha, Mangalajodi and Jiranga have been identified for caravan-based tourism
experiences, offering travellers access to Odisha’s pristine landscapes and
heritage sites.
The inaugural journey of the tourism
caravan commenced with its first trip to Talsari in Balasore district. Annada
Prasad Padhy and Archana Padhy became the first customers to receive tickets
for the journey, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter in Odisha’s tourism
landscape.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by
Bhubaneswar Block Chairperson Nirupama Sahoo, Dhauli Sarpanch Chandan Mallick
and other dignitaries, while Additional Secretary Rudra Narayan Dash proposed
the vote of thanks.
