Bhubaneswar: As part of the 6th Odisha Travel Bazar, jointly organized by the Tourism Department of the Government of Odisha and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), a familiarization tour has been arranged for participating Foreign Tour Operators (FTOs) from different countries. The tour aims to provide first hand experience of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty, enabling operators to curate customized travel packages for international tourists.
The FTOs visited several key attractions, including Lalitgiri, part of Odisha’s renowned Diamond Triangle, known for its ancient stupas, monasteries, and relics; Bhitarkanika National Park, where they explored mangrove creeks, spotted crocodiles, and visited the Crocodile Breeding Centre; and Pentha Beach, a pristine coastal destination famous for its scenic beauty and red crabs.
The itinerary also included Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, showcasing exquisite Jain sculptures from the 1st century BCE; Kala Bhoomi Craft Museum, which highlights Odisha’s traditional handicrafts and tribal artifacts; and the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its architectural brilliance. The delegates also experienced the Light and Sound Show at Konark.
Additionally, the FTOs explored Raghurajpur, a heritage crafts village known for its Pattachitra paintings and Gotipua dance; Mukteswar and Rajarani Temples, which represent Odisha’s distinctive temple architecture; and the Dhauli Peace Pagoda, a symbol of Buddhism’s influence in the state.
The familiarization tour underscores the state government’s commitment to promoting Odisha as a premier global travel destination, fostering collaborations, and attracting a larger influx of international tourists.
