Odisha Sees Dramatic Increase in Foreign Tourist Visits, Up 104.2% in 2023

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s tourism sector witnessed a remarkable resurgence, with a substantial 104.2% increase in foreign tourist visits in 2023 compared to the previous year. According to recent data presented in the Lok Sabha, the number of international visitors to Odisha jumped to 45,173 in 2023 from 22,121 in 2022.

The data reflects a broader national growth rate applied to Odisha’s 2022 figures. The state’s tourism sector was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with foreign arrivals plummeting to just 2,269 in 2021. However, 2022 marked a strong recovery with an 875% increase in foreign visitors and a 110% rise in domestic tourists, totalling 78,67,909 domestic visitors compared to 37,42,221 in 2021.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted Odisha’s appeal in her Budget 2024-2025 presentation, emphasizing the state’s scenic landscapes, historical temples, traditional craftsmanship, and rich wildlife. The government aims to leverage these attributes to further boost tourism in Odisha.