In this article
Definition | Role | Schemes | Advantage
Odisha, a land of agrarian abundance is known for its rich agricultural heritage. It sees a significant 76 of its population engaged in agriculture as their primary occupation. As India’s leading rice-producing state, Odisha cultivates a diverse array of crops including rice, jute, oilseeds, pulses, coconut, mesta, sugarcane, tea, rubber, cotton, gram, mustard, maize, sesame, ragi, potato, and soybean. Prominent agricultural hubs like Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Balasore, and Sambalpur play crucial roles in the state’s agricultural landscape, contributing to its vibrant agricultural economy.
Are you considering utilizing your ancestral property for agricultural purposes?
Would you like information on government subsidies available for agro-tourism projects?
Do you have friends and family who might enjoy spending weekends on farmlands?
Are you looking to generate a second source of income from your ancestral property while enjoying organic produce from your land?
What is Agrotourism?
Agrotourism, as the name suggests combines agriculture and tourism, where visitors get a chance to experience the farm life firsthand. From picking fresh produce to learning about sustainable farming practices, agrotourism offers a fresh and necessary insight into the world of agriculture.
Agro-tourism offers a variety of agricultural-based activities that invite visitors to farmland, where they can gain an understanding of how food is produced, processed, and distributed all while nestling in nature’s beautiful sceneries. With a growing curiosity about the origins and purity of food that we consume, people are increasingly drawn to agro-tourism to connect and get to know about the agricultural process.
Odisha, India with its vast diversity in agricultural produce allows one to indulge in agricultural practices thoroughly. Agritourism in Odisha is a perfect destination for both domestic and international tourists looking to get hands-on farming experiences. The state offers a variety of farming tours, including:
Farm-to-Plate Organic Farming: Learn about organic farming practices and enjoy fresh, farm-grown produce.
Agroforestry: Discover the benefits of integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes.
Miyawaki Forests: Explore dense, fast-growing forests created using the Miyawaki method.
Dairy Farming: Get hands-on experience with dairy farming and milk production.
Bee Farming: Understand the importance of bees in agriculture and participate in beekeeping activities.
Mushroom Farming: Learn the techniques of cultivating mushrooms.
Fish Farming: Discover the methods of sustainable aquaculture.
Sustainable Living: Embrace eco-friendly practices and sustainable living methods.
Eco Cottages: Stay in eco-friendly accommodations that offer a peaceful nature retreat.
Agro-tourism in Odisha boasts the sustainable lifestyle of local farmers, their rich culture, and traditional practices. In agrotourism sites in Bhubaneshwar, visitors can engage in a variety of activities, from learning about different cultures and local farm products to directly participating in harvesting. The agricultural scenario in Odisha changes according to the seasons as diverse crops are cultivated in different seasons
During the Kharif season (July to October), they grow:
Cereals and Millets: Paddy, Maize, Ragi, Small Millets
Pulses: Arhar, Lentils, Mung, Cowpea
Oilseeds: Groundnut, Til, Castor
Cash Crops: Mesta, Cotton, Sweet Potato, Turmeric
Vegetables: Brinjal, Tomato, Early Cauliflower
These crops not only support the local economy but also provide visitors with a variety of fresh produce to enjoy during their stay. Agro-tourism in Odisha offers an immersive experience as it connects tourists with the heart of agricultural life. Whether you're interested in the process of farming, sustainable practices, or simply want to enjoy the tranquility of rural life, Odisha's agro-tourism has something for everyone.
Role of Landscape Architect in agro-tourism Design in Odisha
Landscape architects play a crucial role in designing and enhancing agro-tourism projects as they possess the right design ideologies and integrate sustainable agricultural practices with aesthetic and functional landscape elements. Let’s look at some of the prominent roles of landscape architects in agro-tourism design in Odisha.
Understanding the Land and Its Conditions Landscape architects begin by thoroughly analyzing the land's topography, soil quality, and climate to ensure that the agro-tourism project is sustainable and environment-friendly.
Preparing a Masterplan Design for Agro-Tourism They develop a comprehensive masterplan that integrates farming activities, amenities for tourists, and natural landscapes, ensuring a harmonious and functional layout for the agro-tourism site.
Enhancing Agricultural Aesthetic Appeal By incorporating visually appealing elements like orchards, and water features, landscape architects enhance the aesthetic appeal of the agricultural environment, making it more attractive to visitors and tourists.
Promoting Organic Farming with Permaculture Techniques They advocate spaces that utilize permaculture techniques, and design spaces that promote sustainable and organic farming practices. This benefits both the environment and the visitors' educational experience.
Improving Visitor Experience for Tourism Landscape architects design pathways, rest areas, and interactive zones that enhance the overall guest experience, ensuring easy access and a memorable journey through the agro-tourism site.
Preparation of Detailed Architectural Plans They create detailed architectural plans for building structures, such as eco-cottages and educational centers, as well as planting layouts that support the agro-tourism project's goals and aesthetics.
Government schemes for agro-tourism projects in Odisha
Odisha, a culturally vibrant region of India and a renowned tourist destination flourishes in the tourism sector. Agrotourism in Odisha has a valuable opportunity to benefit from multiple schemes by the government of Odisha.
1. The Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) grants different incentives and support mechanisms concerning financial assistance, infrastructure grants, marketing support, training programs for local communities, etc.
2. The 'Mukhyamantri Krishi Udyog Yojana' (Chief Minister's Agriculture Entrepreneur Scheme) provides support for agrotourism ventures in specific factors like financial and technical guidance and market linkages to entrepreneurs in the agriculture and allied sectors.
By taking advantage of these schemes, agrotourism sites in Odisha and all over the country can receive financial support and they can also benefit from capacity-building initiatives and networking opportunities within the mainstream tourism industry.
How does a Landscape Architect Consultant serve as a one-stop solution for agro-tourism projects?
Agro-tourism is a beautiful blend of agriculture and tourism. It offers tourists a rich experience in the realm of farming and sustainable practices. A Landscape Architect Consultant plays a vital role in transforming these projects into thriving, sustainable ventures. A Landscape Architect Consultant serves the agro-tourism industry by integrating their expertise in landscape architecture and design with comprehensive project management skills.
They provide holistic planning that includes site analysis, master planning, and design development catering to enhance the tourist experience and in turn the operational efficiency of agro-tourism sites. The consultant's skills, knowledge, and expertise in the field of landscape architecture guarantee that agricultural elements are harmoniously integrated with recreational features, maximizing their appeal and functionality.
They coordinate with various stakeholders, including farmers, tourism operators, and environmental agencies, to ensure regulatory compliance and community engagement. The Landscape Architect Consultant offers a cohesive approach that transforms agro-tourism concepts into viable, attractive tourist destinations that promote economic and environmental growth.
By bridging the gap between agriculture and tourism, they create enriching experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. At Banbhoomi, our goal is to create innovative, ecologically sound landscapes that foster vibrant communities. We see landscape design as a tool for addressing challenges and imagining a brighter tomorrow.
Agritourism Market in India Size, Share, Growth Rate (19.9%), Analysis, Business Opportunity 2023-2028
Our focus is beyond short-term gains, we aim for long-lasting impact and resilience. Our approach not only benefits the environment but also provides tangible advantages for our clients. As the demand for unique, local, and sustainably enriched travel experiences is growing, with it the integration of landscape architecture in agrotourism will continue to evolve.
Let Banbhoomi transform your landscape today and create a sustainable future for agro-tourism in Odisha!