Odisha tourism boost: 55 new hotels approved, Rs 3211 crore investment for hospitality expansion | Bhubaneswar News
Bhubaneswar: In a major boost to the tourism and hospitality infrastructure, state govt has approved 55 new hotel and accommodation projects since July 2024 at a total estimated cost of Rs 3,211.32 crore. The move signals a major expansion in the state’s capacity to host domestic and international travellers.According to information tabled during the last state assembly session, the entire list of approved projects reveals a diverse range of developments, from high-end five-star hotels to eco-resorts. State capital Bhubaneswar continues to remain a hotspot, while hoteliers are also looking at other distant places.Interestingly, the approvals highlight a move towards untapped destinations, especially tribal and remote areas. Koraput, Keonjhar, Kandhamal and Ganjam are witnessing several resort developments, aimed at catering to travellers looking for scenic and ecological experiences.Leading the luxury segment are major global and national brands, including World of Hyatt, ITC Hotels and All Accor in Bhubaneswar, Marriott Bonvoy in Puri, the picturesque Somolo Island in Chilika lake, and Radisson Hotels in Ganjam and Puri.In the city, Ashirbad Engineering and Construction Pvt Ltd will develop a five-star project with World of Hyatt at a cost of Rs 139 crore, while ITC Hotels will also set up a similar property here at Rs 119.14 crore.While Bhubaneswar continues to witness urban growth, there is a clear strategic push towards coastal and nature-based tourism. Puri remains a hotspot, with multiple four-star hotels and luxury resorts approved, including a Rs 212.25 crore project by SNM Hotels and Resorts in a tie-up with Marriott Bonvoy.With the addition of over 3,800 new rooms across the 55 projects, the hospitality sector is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs. From three-star budget-friendly options to high-end resorts like the Rs 110 crore resort in Somolo with an ITC tie-up, the state is positioning itself as a versatile destination for every type of traveller.According to official data, there is a sharp rise in both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals to the state post-pandemic. From just over 10,000 foreign visitors in 2020, the state welcomed more than 53,000 in 2024-25, while domestic tourist arrivals surged past 11 million during the same period.As per govt data, there are over 48,000 hotel rooms in the state on offer to travellers at present. “There is an influx of tourists and the choice nowadays is not limited to Puri, Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. People are also looking to explore the wild and opting to visit many tribal-dominated districts,” Ananta Mohapatra, a city-based travel agent, said.“This surge in approvals reflects state govt’s proactive policy to improve tourism infrastructure and ensure increased footfall. The quality of stay and services will meet international standards. Authorities should now focus on providing due support to the projects,” Akash Patra, an industry analyst, said.
