Bhubaneswar: In a major step towards preserving Odisha's rich architectural and cultural legacy while unlocking its tourism potential, the state government has rolled out the Heritage Property Promotion Guidelines, 2026 under the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy, 2026.

The new guidelines aim to encourage the conservation and adaptive reuse of historic structures such as palaces, forts, mansions and other culturally significant buildings by linking them with tourism-driven economic activities. The initiative is expected to provide a fresh impetus to heritage conservation while creating new avenues for rural and cultural tourism.

According to the policy, buildings constructed before 1950 and possessing architectural, historical or cultural significance will be eligible to be recognised as "heritage properties". The guidelines cover a range of heritage-based tourism projects, including heritage hotels, heritage museums, heritage restaurants or cafeterias, and heritage banquet facilities.

To qualify as a heritage hotel, a property must have at least five guest rooms, while a heritage restaurant should be capable of accommodating a minimum of 30 guests at a time. Heritage banquet venues must have a seating capacity of at least 20 guests and a built-up area of 500 square feet or more.

The government has also laid down a detailed eligibility framework for projects seeking financial incentives. Property owners will be required to establish clear ownership or hold a valid lease of at least 10 years. They must also provide documentary evidence proving that the structure was built before 1950, supported by revenue records, historical documents, district administration reports, certificates from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) or reports from conservation experts authorised by the Department of Tourism.

In addition, eligible properties must comply with building and fire safety regulations, heritage conservation norms, and ensure the availability of basic infrastructure such as electricity, water supply and sanitation facilities.

A key feature of the guidelines is the provision of Capital Investment Subsidy (CIS) for the repair, restoration, renovation and improvement of heritage properties. Before any work begins, project proponents seeking incentives must obtain approval under the prescribed mechanism and undergo a pre-work assessment conducted by a government-approved conservation expert.

The assessment will include comprehensive documentation such as geo-tagged photographs, videography, measured drawings and condition assessment reports. These records will form the basis for evaluating the eligible capital investment for subsidy purposes.

The policy also places a strong emphasis on maintaining the original character of heritage structures. Any renovation, extension or modification must adhere to traditional architectural styles and construction techniques, ensuring that new additions blend harmoniously with the existing structure. The newly added built-up area cannot exceed 50 per cent of the total built-up area of the property.

The guidelines further clarify that any repair or renovation undertaken before obtaining the required approvals will not qualify for incentives, although certain new constructions may be considered on a case-by-case basis under the policy provisions.

Tourism experts believe the initiative will not only help protect Odisha's invaluable heritage assets but also transform many historic properties into vibrant tourism destinations, generating employment and economic opportunities while showcasing the state's cultural wealth to a wider audience.