In an attempt to revive its tourism industry that has long been experiencing a standstill due to the pandemic, the Indian state of Odisha has plans for starting river cruises. The Chief Secretary of Odisha, Asit Tripathy proposed the Department of Tourism to begin with this programme during a high-level e-meeting while discussing the possibilities of futuristic tourism activities in the state with stakeholders and experts. This newly proposed initiative will be organized through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with significant support from the state government.
The launch of river cruises in Odisha is expected to bring in a huge influx of adventure enthusiastic travellers, who have long been waiting for their exhilarating post-COVID holidays. This initiative will also prove to be a great move for tour operators, who have been struggling to cope with this tourism standstill for a long time now.
In accordance with the revelations made by Secretary of Tourism, a total of 3 primary river cruise routes can be established in Odisha in Chilika Lake, Mahanadi, and Dangmala Reserve Forest. Bhitarkanika circuit in Dangmala reserve forest will be a 6 days 5 nights cruise, connecting Chandbali - Aradi - Dhamara - Khola, together with a few other spots. Chilika circuit will be a 4 days 3 nights cruise, connecting Kalijai - Nalabana - Honeymoon island - Mangalajodi - Satapada - Rajhans island - Satapada and Puri.