Bhubaneswar, May 30: Odisha’s tourism sector is witnessing an unprecedented surge, with more than 56 lakh tourists visiting the state in the first five months of 2026, signaling a strong revival and growing global interest in the state’s diverse tourism offerings. Despite geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges across several parts of the world, Odisha has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, powered by a unique blend of spirituality, heritage, eco-tourism and adventure experiences.
Tourism department data indicate that the state’s flagship destination, Puri, has recorded a 22 per cent rise in tourist arrivals compared to the corresponding period last year. The momentum follows a remarkable 2025, when Puri alone attracted nearly 2.43 crore visitors. Across Odisha, more than 1.13 crore domestic tourists and over 87,000 foreign visitors explored various destinations last year.
