Sambalpur/Bhubaneswar: Debrigarh Ecotourism posted a record performance in 2025–26, earning Rs 6.02 crore and drawing nearly 1.4 lakh visitors. The surge marks a sharp rise from the previous fiscal year’s 5.01 crore revenue and 85,000 tourists, reflecting its growing popularity among nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
The steady rise underscores Debrigarh’s emergence as one of India’s fastest-growing wildlife tourism hubs. About 50 per cent of visitors were from Odisha, with the rest coming from across India and countries including Italy, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Finland, Ireland, Spain and Brazil.
This year also witnessed the introduction of Odisha’s first Nature Homestay at Dhodrokusum Green Village and a unique 2-km Birding Trail, adding new dimensions to the destination’s eco-tourism experience.
These additions complemented earlier attractions such as stargazing rooms with glass roofing, an island café, a wildlife library, and guided stargazing activities introduced last year. Debrigarh has steadily evolved into a popular wildlife destination, offering near-guaranteed sightings of species such as Indian bison (gaur), leopard, wild dog, sambar, chital, sloth bear, wild pig, peacock, and a wide variety of birds.
Visitors can explore jungle safaris with eco-guides, Hirakud reservoir cruises, island visits, hiking and trekking trails, kayaking, cycling, wildlife photography tours, and guided stargazing. Currently, the destination offers 25 night-stay units, including stargazing rooms and forest homestays managed by local communities.
Looking ahead, Debrigarh Ecotourism is set for further expansion in 2026–27, with plans to open 32 new night-stay cottages, including 10 additional homestays at Dhodrokusum, along with a canopy walk and upgraded safari and cruise facilities.
Emphasising the importance of community-led conservation, DFO Hirakud Wildlife Division Anshu Pragyan Das said, “Debrigarh Ecotourism is a model where conservation and livelihoods go hand in hand. The growth in visitor numbers and revenue reflects the success of community-driven initiatives like Dhodrokusum Homestays and the Birding Trail.”
“Our focus remains on sustainable tourism, regulated visitor management, and empowering local communities, especially women and youth, while ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife,” he added. Around 120 local families are now directly engaged in ecotourism activities as guides, safari drivers, boat operators, and homestay hosts.
Nearly 40 per cent of participants are women, including female safari drivers and eco-guides, while tribal women manage the homestays. With regulated safari limits, strict monitoring, and eco-friendly practices, Debrigarh is steadily reinforcing its status as a model destination that balances tourism growth with wildlife conservation and community empowerment.
