Odisha Eyes Destination Weddings to Expand Tourism Beyond Temples

Looking beyond its well-established temple tourism and Buddhist circuits, the Odisha government is now shifting focus towards promoting the state as a prime destination for weddings and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) tourism.
With its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and a long coastline, Odisha offers a variety of attractions. The state is home to stunning temples, diverse wildlife, serene lakes, waterfalls, and breathtaking ecotourism destinations. While these sites already attract domestic tourists throughout the year, officials believe Odisha has the potential to become a premier hub for grand weddings and corporate events.
“The state has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. Our natural beauty, coupled with historical and architectural marvels, makes Odisha an ideal location for high-profile weddings and business events,” said an official from the state tourism department.
The government aims to position Odisha as a rival to renowned wedding destinations such as Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala. The tourism department is planning to develop necessary infrastructure, improve connectivity, and promote Odisha as an exclusive venue for luxurious and traditional weddings.
Efforts are being made to market Odisha as a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering a distinctive experience for couples looking for exotic wedding locations. Additionally, the government is working on collaborations with event planners, hospitality chains, and airlines to attract high-spending tourists and businesses to the state.
With this new initiative, Odisha hopes to carve a niche in the competitive tourism sector, boosting the state’s economy and generating employment opportunities while showcasing its cultural grandeur on a global platform.