Bhubaneswar: Odisha is gearing up for a major transformation into a global sports tourism destination following a high-level meeting between the Department of Tourism and national sports icons.
Shri Balwant Singh, Secretary of Tourism, hosted a strategy session with celebrated marathoner Milind Soman and other elite athletes to chart a new course for the state’s travel and sports sectors.
The interaction, which included Director Tourism Shri Deepankar Mohapatra and other key officials, focused on leveraging Odisha’s world-class athletic infrastructure to attract international visitors.
By integrating high-profile sporting events with the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage, officials aim to create a unique travel experience that appeals to fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes alike.
A central theme of the discussion was the development of a long-term roadmap to establish Odisha as a premier hub for sports-driven tourism. This initiative is expected to move beyond traditional stadium-based events, focusing instead on destination-based experiences like marathons, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that immerse visitors in the local landscape.
This strategic push comes at a time when Odisha is already gaining international recognition for its hosting of major championships. The involvement of influencers like Milind Soman suggests that the upcoming phase will prioritize community engagement and healthy lifestyles as core components of the tourism brand.
Travelers and sports fans can expect a series of upcoming announcements regarding new event circuits and specialized tour packages designed around major races. With this bold new chapter, Odisha is positioning itself not just as a place to visit, but as a destination to experience through movement and grit.