Bhubaneswar, 6 December (H.S.): Odisha has experienced a remarkable surge in foreign tourist arrivals over the last five years, signalling growing global interest in the state’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical attractions. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida presented the data in the State Assembly on Saturday, noting a steady increase in international visitors since 2020.

According to the written reply, a total of 1,33,161 foreign tourists visited Odisha between the 2020 and 2024 financial years. The trend shows a strong rebound in the post-pandemic period, with arrivals rising from 10,206 in 2020 to 53,392 in 2024. Visitor numbers dipped to 2,269 in 2021 due to global travel restrictions but sharply increased to 22,172 in 2022 and further to 45,173 in 2023, before crossing the 53,000 mark in 2024. Overall, foreign tourist arrivals more than doubled between 2022 and 2024, reflecting a renewed international interest in Odisha.

Japan emerged as the single largest contributor of foreign tourists over the five-year period, sending 4,423 travellers to the state. Italy (3,830), Germany (3,722), the United Kingdom (3,715) and France (3,008) were among the other major source countries. The government said these numbers highlight Odisha’s increasing appeal among travellers from Europe and East Asia, strengthening its position as an emerging global tourism destination.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda