Odisha Plans Cruise Terminal in Puri to Boost Coastal Tourism
Services to connect Puri with Paradip, Digha, Visakhapatnam and Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Bhubaneswar : Cruise tourism in Odisha is set for a major boost as the state government, in collaboration with the Paradip Port Authority (PPA), plans to establish a cruise terminal in Puri. This project aims to connect the holy town with popular coastal destinations such as Paradip, Digha in West Bengal, Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
MoU to Be Signed During India Maritime Week 2025
The state government and the PPA will formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai. PPA Chairman PL Haranadh met Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan and extended an invitation to attend the event.
The project will be implemented in phases. The first phase will focus on developing the cruise terminal in Puri, while the second phase will extend the facility to Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district.
Cruise Terminal to Be Integrated with Proposed International Airport
The cruise terminal is planned near the upcoming international airport in Puri, with an integrated development model envisioned for both transport hubs. The Tourism Department, Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Limited (IPICOL), and the PPA will jointly develop the terminal.
A detailed project report (DPR) is currently being prepared to outline the terminal’s infrastructure and operational blueprint. While the terminal infrastructure will be set up by the government and the PPA, actual cruise services will be operated by private players.
Boost to Tourism and Maritime Connectivity
The new initiative is expected to significantly enhance Odisha’s tourism appeal by offering luxury cruise experiences and improved coastal connectivity. Pilgrims, tourists, and adventure travellers will have the option to travel from Puri to destinations like Paradip, Digha, Visakhapatnam, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by sea.
Officials believe that this project could pave the way for Odisha to become a major cruise tourism hub in eastern India. The terminal will not only offer passenger services but also create opportunities for hospitality, logistics, and local employment.
PPA and State Collaboration Expands
The cruise terminal is part of a broader partnership between the state government and the PPA. The two entities have already signed agreements for key projects, including the proposed Bahuda Port in Ganjam and a shipbuilding centre in Kendrapara district.
India Maritime Week 2025 is expected to be one of the largest maritime events globally, with participation from over 100 maritime nations, around 200 international experts, and more than 500 leading maritime industries. The event will serve as a platform to showcase Odisha’s emerging role in maritime infrastructure and blue economy initiatives.
With the launch of cruise services and development of port infrastructure, Odisha is moving toward becoming a strategic coastal tourism and maritime trade destination, balancing economic development with cultural promotion.
