Bhubaneswar, Oct 4: More than 2,000 participants joined the Puri Coastal Marathon Promo Run in Bhubaneswar as the Odisha Tourism Department stepped up preparations and awareness for the upcoming marathon.
The promo run brought together fitness enthusiasts and members of the public to promote health, fitness and running while creating awareness about the Puri Coastal Marathon, scheduled to be held on December 13, 2026.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, actor Siddhant Mahapatra and Tourism Department Secretary Balwant Singh were among those who participated in the event. Outstanding participants were also felicitated on the occasion.
Odisha eyes adventure tourism growth
Speaking to Prameya English, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said Odisha is working to emerge as a hub for adventure tourism.
She said the state is promoting activities such as mountaineering, water sports and hot-air ballooning as part of its efforts to expand the tourism sector.
Also Read: 32 locations, 10,000+ runners: Odisha builds momentum for Puri Coastal Marathon 2026
The Tourism Department has also introduced an Adventure Tourism Policy to promote such activities in the state.
Parida said adventure tourism activities are expected to begin soon at Mahendragiri, which could further boost the region's tourism potential.
The promo run was organised ahead of the December marathon to generate greater public participation and promote Puri as a destination for sports, fitness and tourism.
The upcoming Puri Coastal Marathon is expected to attract participants from different parts of India and abroad, adding a new dimension to Odisha's growing sports tourism landscape.
