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Odisha Launches Caravan Tourism to Boost Travel and Explore Hidden Gems

Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister has launched a caravan tourism initiative, flagging off three vehicles from Dhauli near Bhubaneswar. The custom-built caravans provide sleeping areas and amenities, allowing flexible exploration of the state's natural landscapes. The project aims to attract young travelers and reduce pressure on conventional tourist hubs by promoting destinations like Hirakud and Similipal. The initiative is operated under a Viability Gap Funding model and is managed by a private tour operator.

Key Points: Odisha Launches Caravan Tourism for Flexible Travel

  • Offers transport & accommodation in one
  • Aims for tourist dispersal & regional balance
  • Targets young & adventure travelers
  • Operated under Viability Gap Funding
2 min read

Odisha Deputy CM launches 'Caravan Tourism'

Odisha Deputy CM flags off tourism caravans to offer immersive travel experiences, promoting regional development and sustainable tourism.

"These caravans will enable tourists to experience Odisha's serene natural landscapes at their own pace - Deputy CM Pravati Parida"

Bhubaneswar, Feb 4

Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Wednesday flagged off three Tourism Caravans at Dhauli near Bhubaneswar, aiming to boost the tourism sector in the state.

According to an official statement, the Caravan tourism, offering both transport and accommodation, offers visitors an exclusive and immersive way to explore destinations, providing greater flexibility, privacy, and freedom of movement. Caravan Tourism involves travelling in a custom-built vehicle equipped with sleeping areas, kitchenettes, washrooms, and air conditioning, etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Dy CM Parida said that 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.

She also added that Caravan tourism is well-established in several European countries, and Odisha's venture into this segment aims to attract young travellers, adventure seekers, and offbeat explorers who seek experiential and nature-based travel.

Addressing the gathering, Bhubaneswar-Ekamra MLA Babu Singh said that this will help the tourists to explore the new destinations with more comfort and safety. He lauded such initiatives of the state government.

Delivering his welcome address, Director of Tourism Department Deepankar Mohapatra said that caravan tourism will also facilitate tourist dispersal beyond conventional destinations, supporting balanced regional development and reducing pressure on traditional tourism hubs.

Launched by the Odisha Department of Tourism under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mode, operated & managed by Sand and Pebble Tours. The department has identified destinations with significant tourism potential such as Hirakud, Similipal, Daringbadi, Deomali, Talsari, Pentha, Mangalajodi, Jiranga and other pristine locations across the State for caravan-based tourism experiences.

The first trip was moved to Talsari in Balasore, is one of the most tranquil and unspoiled beaches of Odisha. A couple, Annada Prasad Padhy and Archana Padhy, as customers received their first tickets for the journey.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great move by the Odisha government. Promoting tourism in lesser-known areas will create jobs for local communities. Hope they ensure the caravans are eco-friendly and don't harm the pristine locations they are trying to showcase. Sustainability is key.
A
Aman W
As a travel enthusiast, I love this concept. It's perfect for the post-pandemic world where people want privacy and flexibility. Similipal and Hirakud from a caravan? Sign me up! Hope the pricing is reasonable for young professionals.
S
Sarah B
While the idea is innovative, I hope the infrastructure keeps pace. Are there enough designated spots with waste disposal and water facilities for these caravans? The last thing we want is beautiful beaches like Talsari getting littered.
V
Vikram M
Finally! Odisha is stepping up its tourism game. This will be a big draw for adventure seekers. Mangalajodi for bird watching from a caravan sounds incredible. Hope they promote it well on social media to attract the youth.
K
Kavitha C
Good initiative, but the government must ensure safety, especially for women travellers and families. Proper security at halting points and reliable vehicle maintenance are non-negotiable. If managed well, this can be a game-changer for Odisha's economy.

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