Dikhyaa Mohanty 
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated Odisha Tourism’s flagship eco-retreat programme at seven locations through virtual mode. The State government has inaugurated the eco-retreat programme at seven locations- Konark, Satakosia, Bhitarakanika, Daringibadi, Hirakud, Pati Sonapur and Koraput.
According to the official reports, unlike other sectors, tourism is also severely affected in Odisha due to the pandemic. Tourism Minister Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi, who was at Konark eco-retreat location, stated that the department has left no stone unturned to give tourists once-in-a-lifetime experience. Once landed, they can’t deny themselves getting fully immersed in the picture postcard scenes of the locations, in the lap of nature. The hospitality and a wide range of mouth-watering cuisines will leave them wanting for more.
The report further added that the last date set for these eco-retreat locations to entertain their guests is February 28. However, the closing date may be changed, and the decision in this regard will be taken after taking the volume of bookings into consideration. Minister Samir Ranjan Das said “Konark has already had its due place in the world tourism map. The eco-retreat here has been attracting tourists from far and near, and even organisers are also showing their interest for this location. It is needless to say that Konark has always been crucial in giving a boost to the tourism sector of the State.”
Additional Secretary to Government, Tourism Department, Abanikanta Patnaik stated that the agencies who are looking after the eco-retreat locations will ensure the tourists at the locations enjoy their stay. “Similarly, we have also discussed with the concerned local administrations. They will provide all necessary facilities and, most importantly, safety to the tourists. When they bid adieu, they will have sweet memories that will be cherished for the years to come.”
The report further added that if a tourist books a room for a night via online, s/he has to pay Rs 10,000, Rs 13,000, Rs 18,000 and Rs 25,000 for a deluxe cottage, premium swiss cottage, royal luxury swiss cottage and presidential suite respectively.
