Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries likely to have ‘homestay’ options in the near future

The Odisha Government is planning to implement a policy regarding home stay for places near wildlife sanctuaries and eco-tourism spots, such as Chilika, Similipal, Daringbadi, Bhitarkanika, Satkosia, and similar other places. In the meeting of the Eco-Tourism Board held recently, Chief Secretary AK Tripathy said that eco-tourism would be developed along professional lines, i.e., via the creation of private sector linkages and market demand.
The Chief Secretary directed the Tourism, and Forest and Environment Departments to popularise ‘Odhisa destinations’ among the different tour and travel operators in the world market. Development Commissioner S C Mohapatra suggested that at least 10 tourist spots to be developed up to the next level of eco-tourism. Latest reports suggest that these sites will be enhanced with facilities, such as trekking, sports, boating, wildlife watching, jungle safari, canopy walk, photography, cycling, and other activities related to farm visits.

Mohapatra further added that these facilities would be created along with the collaboration of private and government players. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Hari Sankar Upadhaya stated that as of now, around 40 eco-tourist spots had been developed and are open for visitors.
The Chief Conservator further informed that at present, there are around 298 tents and rooms, which can accommodate around 800 people per day in the eco-sites across the state. These projects are currently providing employment to around 1000 people from local communities, with activities like home keeping, hospitality, and other activities in these spots.