Bhubaneswar: Tour operators have blamed early heatwave conditions for lack of business in the state this year.

Major tourist spots such as Puri, Konark and other sites in Bhubaneswar wore a deserted look this season. The inflow to Koraput, Similipal and the Buddhist triangle also witnessed fewer tourists.

"Many rooms remained unoccupied and there were fewer bookings. Last year, we had around 30 packages running at this time that has come down to 10 this season," said Akash Mohapatra, a tour operator here. Sources said the number of tourists, including foreigners, has seen a 30 per cent fall this year.

The state capital recorded 40°C, six degrees higher than normal, during the last week of February. This was the city's highest temperature for this period in the last 30 years, according to the regional Met centre. Angul, Titilagarh and Balangir also sizzled at more than 39°C.

Ruma Bhattacharya travelled to Puri along with her family in the last week of February. But the soaring temperature turned her maiden trip sour.

"The heatwave condition ruined my trip. We stayed cool by doing most of the sightseeing early in the mornings or evenings. We also had to book an AC car," she said.

Tour operators also said the tourism department was unprepared to face the situation. A tourism official said: "We have set up temporary sheds and drinking water facilities at major tourist spots."