Odisha Travel Firms Suspend Turkey Tours Citing National Interest

Travel agencies across Odisha have suspended all tourist bookings to Turkey following the West Asian nation's vocal support for Pakistan, aligning with broader national sentiments calling for a tourism and trade boycott.

In the past few days, local tour operators have reported a noticeable increase in cancellations of planned trips to Turkey, particularly from travelers in Bhubaneswar. While Turkey has not traditionally been among the top destinations for Odia tourists compared to countries like Thailand, it has seen a steady stream of interest, especially because of its affordability and appeal as a gateway to Azerbaijan.

Travel agencies said the move to stop promoting Turkey-bound packages was unanimous. The Indian Association of Travel Operators (IATO), eastern region, confirmed that none of its affiliated members would entertain queries related to travel to Turkey or assist incoming Turkish tourists to Odisha.

“In view of recent developments, we have decided to halt all Turkey-related tour services,” said J.K. Mohanty, chairman of IATO’s eastern chapter. “Recent enquiries for Turkey from Bhubaneswar travelers — about six or seven in number — have all been withdrawn.”

Tourism officials estimate that roughly 200 tourists from Turkey visit Odisha annually, a number that has risen since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this influx is now expected to slow significantly due to the travel industry’s voluntary embargo.

Raman Choudhury, director of Bhubaneswar-based Sky King Holidays, noted that the region had recently seen a spike in interest toward Turkey and neighboring Azerbaijan due to cost-effective packages. But the geopolitical scenario has quickly shifted priorities. “People may think twice now before booking Turkey, regardless of how attractive the destination might be,” he added.

Despite the growing travel boycott, trade activity involving Turkish imports remains largely unaffected. Odisha continues to source a modest quantity of apples from Turkey, but local wholesalers indicated the volume is too low to affect market dynamics.

“There’s no significant impact on fruit supply chains in Odisha at this point,” said Sudhakar Panda, general secretary of the Odisha Byabasayi Mahasangha. “Apple imports from Turkey continue, but the quantity is minimal.”

Industry insiders say the situation is being closely monitored, and further decisions will depend on diplomatic developments in the coming weeks.