Odisha Govt Plans to Hold Eco Retreat at Five Locations to Boost Tourism

Bhubaneswar: After the overwhelming response to the first-ever Eco Retreat Festival held last year at Konark, the Odisha Government is now planning to hold such festivals at five other locations this year to boost the tourism.

The State Tourism Department has decided to organize the Eco Retreat Festival at exotic locations like Konark, Satkosia, Bhitarkanika, Daringbadi and Hirakud.

“As the Eco Retreat at Konark last year was a hit, we have planned to organise such event at five locations this year so that we can attract more number of tourists and make Odisha a brand in tourism sector, not only within the country, but also abroad,” stated Tourism Director Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav.

The department has invited bidders for development and promotion of eco retreat project sites.

“A tender has been invited to develop, finance, operate, promote and market the project. The government will provide only basic amenities at the sites. As the COVID-19 situation still continues, the tourists will have to follow the COVID-19 guidelines during their stay at the sites,” the Department said.

To promote the event, the State Government has also decided to provide Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to the preferred bidders.

The private operator will setup and manage temporary structures (tented cottages, restaurants, conference halls, reception area, etc.) in compliance with minimum development obligation. The services provided at the Eco Retreat will be at par with any 3-star category hotels, the Department said.

The Eco Retreat at Konark would have 50 luxurious tents while other destinations will have 20 to 25 units, it added.

The Marine Drive-Eco Retreat was organised in December last year to showcase the best of Odisha’s food and culture for high-end tourists. The festival was organized for 49 days. This time, events would be organized for a period of three months starting from December this year.

The festival features luxury cottages, delectable cuisine, beach spa, adventure and water sports activities, nature trails and wholesome day itineraries, cultural evenings etc.