Bhubaneswar: Odisha Tourism secured two prestigious recognitions at the Great Indian Travel Bazaar, Jaipur. The State was conferred the Travel & Tourism Excellence Award 2026 for “Outstanding Contribution in Tourism Development”, acknowledging its sustained efforts in strengthening tourism infrastructure, policy support, and destination promotion. Odisha Tourism was also awarded the “Best Stall in the Public Sector Category”, recognising the pavilion’s immersive design, innovative presentation, and experiential storytelling. 

Odisha Tourism showcased a strong and strategic presence, reinforcing its positioning as a high-potential global tourism destination. The State’s participation was further strengthened by a delegation of 11 co-exhibitors from Odisha, representing tour operators, hospitality stakeholders, and tourism service providers, collectively presenting a comprehensive and market-ready tourism ecosystem.

The Odisha Pavilion emerged as one of the most engaging and well-received showcases at the event, attracting significant interest from international buyers, Foreign Tour Operators (FTOs), and Destination Management Companies (DMCs). Through more than 120 focused G2B engagements and strategic networking sessions, Odisha Tourism showcased its diverse offerings across heritage, spiritual, coastal, eco, and experiential tourism.

 The State also highlighted its enhanced readiness for global travel and MICE opportunities, supported by the recently amended Odisha Tourism Policy 2026, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, incentivising investments, and positioning Odisha as a competitive and investor-friendly destination. 

In addition, participating stakeholders from Odisha held a series of effective business meetings with international buyers, resulting in meaningful partnerships and future collaboration opportunities.

This outreach is expected to significantly enhance Odisha’s global visibility and strengthen partnerships with international tour operators and stakeholders. It also serves as a strategic precursor to the upcoming 7th  edition of Odisha Travel Bazaar, scheduled from 3rd to 5th October 2026, which aims to bring leading FTOs, DMCs, and buyers to the State, further accelerating inbound tourism and investment opportunities.

These recognitions highlight Odisha’s rising appeal as a distinctive tourism destination on the global stage. Building on this momentum, the Department of Tourism will continue to deepen international partnerships, enhance visitor experiences, and unlock new investment opportunities to further elevate Odisha’s position in the global tourism landscape.