Published on
January 16, 2026
Odisha is making a bold push to elevate its tourism sector with the launch of the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy 2026. Designed to attract new investment, create employment, and strengthen the state’s tourism infrastructure, the policy emphasizes sustainability, regional inclusiveness, and high-quality visitor experiences. By combining economic incentives with environmentally responsible practices, Odisha aims to position itself as a top-tier travel destination in India and beyond.
One of the central reforms in the updated policy is the simplification of hotel investment and expansion rules. Minimum room requirements for three-star and higher hotels have been reduced, and expansion norms for existing properties have been made more flexible. These adjustments are expected to make it easier for investors to enter the market while enabling current operators to upgrade and expand their offerings. The focus on easing regulatory hurdles is set to encourage the development of modern accommodations, particularly in emerging tourism hubs across the state.
The policy also strengthens the framework for special tourism zones, providing targeted incentives for projects that prioritize sustainability and experiential tourism. Key areas of focus include heritage properties, museums, eco-friendly mobility solutions, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) tourism. By linking investment to environmentally conscious and culturally enriching projects, the state is promoting tourism growth that not only attracts visitors but also benefits local communities and preserves Odisha’s unique cultural and natural assets.
A new State Tourism Advisory Council is being established to enhance coordination between the government and industry stakeholders. This advisory body will facilitate policy implementation, monitor outcomes, and provide a platform for continuous engagement with the private sector. Experts predict that these measures could support the creation of more than 15,000 hotel rooms by 2036, alongside significant job generation across the hospitality and allied sectors.
Odisha’s tourism potential is already well-recognized, thanks to its cultural richness, scenic landscapes, and diverse destinations ranging from tranquil beaches and lush forests to historic monuments and tribal heritage sites. The amended policy is expected to amplify these strengths by providing incentives for innovative tourism experiences, infrastructure development, and community-oriented projects. Investors are likely to benefit from a more streamlined regulatory environment, clearer investment pathways, and opportunities to participate in sustainable tourism initiatives that align with global best practices.
The policy encourages innovation across the sector, promoting eco-tourism, heritage-focused stays, and immersive cultural programs. Hospitality operators are incentivized to adopt sustainable infrastructure solutions, such as renewable energy systems, waste reduction measures, and green mobility options. Simultaneously, experiences that allow travelers to engage meaningfully with local culture, traditions, and communities are being actively promoted, reflecting changing global traveler preferences for authentic and environmentally responsible experiences.
Regional inclusiveness is a key priority of the policy. By supporting tourism projects in smaller towns and rural areas, the state seeks to distribute economic benefits more evenly, create local employment opportunities, and promote small and medium-sized enterprises. Heritage and eco-tourism initiatives in these regions are expected to generate new revenue streams while protecting the environment and preserving local traditions, ensuring that growth is both sustainable and equitable.
The Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy 2026 sets a strong precedent for tourism development in India. By blending investment-friendly reforms with sustainability, community engagement, and innovative experiences, the state is creating a long-term growth model that benefits businesses, travelers, and local communities alike. The policy is poised to enhance Odisha’s visibility as a world-class destination, capable of offering authentic, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible tourism experiences.
In summary, the 2026 policy offers a strategic framework to build a robust, inclusive, and sustainable tourism ecosystem in Odisha. Through simplified investment procedures, expanded tourism zones, and an emphasis on innovation and sustainability, the state is set to attract significant private investment, create thousands of jobs, and provide high-quality experiences for travelers. By promoting responsible growth and community participation, Odisha is charting a new path for tourism that balances economic, social, and environmental benefits, firmly establishing itself as a leading destination in India’s tourism map.
