The Department of Tourism, Odisha seeks to "promote sustainable tourism with a view to create employment opportunities and to bring about socio-economic benefits" to the local communities of Odisha.

The department also strives to "preserve, enrich and promote Odisha's unique cultural heritage, natural resources and environment with a view to achieve sustainable development". To further this endeavour, the department organises cultural festivals such as the Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav, the Konark Dance Festival and International Sand Art Festival. The festivals all aim to showcase classical and folk dance and music from all across the country.