Duration: 14 Nights / 15 Days
Major Attractions: Konark Sun Temple, Tribal Dances, Ancient Monuments, Ethnic Villages, and Traditional Weekly Haats (Markets)
Destinations Covered: Bhubaneswar – Konark – Puri – Gopalpur – Rayagada – Jeypore – Bastar – Kanker
Tour Summary:
Experience the vibrant tribal heartlands of Odisha and Chhattisgarh on this 15-day cultural expedition. Discover the architectural marvels of the Konark Sun Temple and the sacred coastal charms of Puri. Journey through remote tribal regions, witnessing traditional dances, village life, and colorful weekly markets. Explore the lush landscapes, ancient temples, and rich traditions that define Eastern and Central India’s living heritage.
On your arrival at the International Terminal in Delhi, our representative will be there to receive you. After a warm traditional welcome, you will be assisted with a smooth transfer to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Over Night Stay In Hote New Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. Upon arrival, our representative will assist with check-in at your hotel.
Bhubaneswar, often referred to as the “Temple City of India,” is renowned for its magnificent temple architecture and sacred cultural heritage. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Parasurameswara Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures.
Continue to the Mukteshwar Temple, an architectural gem celebrated for its intricate stonework and tranquil ambiance—often regarded as a masterpiece of ancient Odishan art. Next, visit the Rajarani Temple, set amid manicured gardens and built from a unique reddish-golden sandstone called Rajarani. This temple, also known as the Indreshwar Temple, captivates visitors with its graceful design and artistic details.
Later, explore the ancient Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These partially natural and partially man-made caves once served as dwellings for Jaina ascetics during the reign of King Kharavela. Their carvings and inscriptions offer fascinating insights into Odisha’s early religious and cultural history.
Over Night Say In Bhubaneswar.
After breakfast, proceed to visit the magnificent Lingaraja Temple from the outer viewing platform, ideal for photography. Situated in the heart of Bhubaneswar, this ancient 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a splendid example of Kalinga architecture, featuring a gracefully curved tower and intricately carved stonework.
Later, drive towards Puri, one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations. En route, visit the 64 Yogini Temple—a rare tantric shrine dedicated to the worship of the Bhumandala, representing the five elements of life. According to legend, Goddess Durga manifested herself as 64 divine forms to vanquish a demon and later commemorated them in this circular temple structure.
Continue to Dhauli Buddhist Stupa, a serene site marking Emperor Ashoka’s transformation after the Kalinga War, and visit the Raghurajpur Heritage Village, renowned for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and vibrant local crafts. Here, you can interact with artisans and gain insight into Odisha’s living art traditions amid a picturesque rural setting.
Upon arrival in Puri, check in at your hotel and relax. The evening is at leisure.
Over Night Stay In Puri
After breakfast, embark on an excursion to the world-famous Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most magnificent architectural marvels. Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, this temple is dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God). Designed in the form of a colossal chariot drawn by seven horses and adorned with intricately carved stone wheels, pillars, and sculptures, Konark stands as a timeless symbol of Odisha’s artistic excellence and spiritual heritage.
Later, visit nearby fishermen’s villages to experience the simple and vibrant lifestyle of the coastal communities of Odisha. Observe their traditional fishing methods and enjoy the scenic charm of the Bay of Bengal coastline.
After lunch, return to Puri and explore its bustling local markets, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, palm leaf paintings, and other local art forms. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the sacred precincts of the Jagannath Temple (visit permitted for Hindus only) and feel the divine aura surrounding this ancient shrine. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a revered form of Lord Vishnu, the temple is famed for its annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), celebrated with great devotion and grandeur.
Over Night Stay In Puri.
After breakfast, drive towards Gopalpur-on-Sea, a serene coastal retreat on the Bay of Bengal. En route, visit the spectacular Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Enjoy a ferry boat ride on the lake to witness flocks of migratory birds (seasonal) and visit charming fishermen’s villages along the lakeside, offering a glimpse into the tranquil rhythm of local life.
Continue your journey to Gopalpur-on-Sea. Upon arrival, check in at your luxury beach resort and unwind amidst the calm sea breeze and golden sands. Spend the evening relaxing by the shore, watching the vibrant hues of sunset over the Bay of Bengal. The beaches here are also perfect for photography, offering glimpses of local women in traditional attire walking gracefully along the coast — a picture of Odisha’s timeless charm.
Over Night Stay In Gopalpur-On-Sea.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Rayagada, a region known for its vibrant tribal heritage and picturesque landscapes. En route, visit the Taptapani Hot Sulphur Spring, a natural thermal spring believed to possess medicinal and healing properties. The tranquil surroundings and soothing warmth of the spring make it a refreshing stop on your journey.
Continue the drive through the tribal heartland of southern Odisha, stopping at villages of the Desia Kondh Tribe, recognizable by their traditional tattooed faces and colorful jewelry. The Kondh people speak Dravidian dialects and maintain fascinating customs that reflect their deep connection with nature.
Further along, visit a Saora tribal village, where you can observe their unique art forms, daily lifestyle, and traditional housing patterns that beautifully blend with the surrounding hills and forests. These visits offer rare insights into the ancient cultures that continue to thrive in this part of India.
Upon arrival in Rayagada, check in at your hotel and relax.
Over Night Stay In Rayagada.
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Kotagarh, home to the fascinating Kutia Kondh Tribe. En route, visit the vibrant Tuesday weekly tribal market, where local communities gather to trade produce, handcrafted items, and daily essentials. The market provides an authentic glimpse into the colorful social life and traditional economy of Odisha’s tribal heartland.
Later, take a guided walk through Kutia Kondh villages to observe their distinct lifestyle and customs. The Kutia Kondhs, a Dravidian-speaking tribe, traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers and remain deeply connected to nature. The women are known for their traditional facial tattoos, ornate jewelry, and brightly colored attire, reflecting their unique identity and aesthetic expression.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene rural surroundings before returning to Rayagada by evening.
Dinner and Over Night Stay In Rayagada.
After breakfast at your hotel in Rayagada, proceed to visit the weekly market at Chatikona, held every Wednesday, where the Dongria Kondh Tribe—one of Odisha’s most distinctive and ancient tribal communities—gathers. The Dongria Kondhs inhabit the lush Niyamgiri Hills and lead a simple, nature-bound lifestyle. On market day, they descend from the hills carrying forest produce, agricultural goods, and dairy items to trade for essential household supplies.
The Dongria women, known for their traditional jewelry and distinctive attire, are often shy and reserved, yet their presence lends a vibrant charm to the bustling market scene. Visiting Chatikona offers a rare opportunity to witness the harmony between tradition, livelihood, and nature in this remote tribal region.
After lunch, continue your drive to Jeypore, a scenic town surrounded by forests and tribal settlements. En route, stop to explore Mali and Muniaka Kondh villages, where you can observe their traditional homes, farming practices, and local craftsmanship that reflect the rich cultural fabric of southern Odisha. Upon arrival in Jeypore,
Check in at your hotel for dinner and Over Night Stay In Jeypore
After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day excursion to Onukudelli, renowned for its Thursday weekly tribal market. This vibrant market is a fascinating gathering place for some of Odisha’s most distinctive tribal communities, including the Bonda and Gadaba tribes.
The Bonda Tribe, among the most ancient in India, inhabits the remote hills of the region. The Bonda women are easily recognizable by their unique traditional attire — layers of colorful bead necklaces, silver ornaments, and large earrings, with a blue cloth wrapped around the waist. Their striking adornments and confident bearing reflect a deep cultural identity preserved over centuries.
Later, pause to admire the breathtaking Duduma Waterfalls, cascading dramatically through the lush valley — a perfect spot to enjoy nature’s tranquility and capture scenic photographs.
Continue to visit villages of the Ollar Gadaba Tribe, known for their warm hospitality and distinct traditional jewelry. The older Gadaba women often wear heavy metal necklaces and vibrant saris, reflecting their rich artistic and cultural heritage. Return to Jeypore by evening.
Dinner and Over Night Stay In Jeypore.
Day 10: Jeypore – Koraput – Jagdalpur (Approx. 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Koraput, a scenic town surrounded by hills and forests. Visit the beautiful Jagannath Temple, a unique shrine reflecting the inclusive spirit of the region’s tribal culture. Unlike the traditional Jagannath Temple in Puri, this temple welcomes devotees of all castes, religions, and communities, symbolizing harmony and unity in diversity.
Later, explore the colorful local market, where the Paraja and Mali tribes gather to trade their handmade goods, forest produce, and daily essentials. The Paraja and Mali communities live in close connection with nature, and their art, attire, and lifestyle beautifully reflect their deep-rooted traditions.
In the afternoon, continue your drive to Jagdalpur, located in the heart of the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. En route, visit Kotpad, a charming village renowned for its vegetable-dyed handloom fabrics. Crafted by local tribal weavers, these textiles feature intricate motifs and patterns, naturally dyed using organic colors — a beautiful example of Odisha’s sustainable craft heritage.
If time permits, stop at a Dhurwa tribal market, where villagers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade items, offering yet another glimpse into the vibrant local life of the region.
Arrive in Jagdalpur, check in at your hotel, and relax.
Over Night Stay In Jagdalpur.
After breakfast, drive to the nearby villages of the Bison-Horn Maria Tribe, one of the most renowned and culturally vibrant communities of the Bastar region. The Maria tribes are known for their warm hospitality, colorful attire, and dynamic Bison-Horn Maria dance, a traditional performance accompanied by rhythmic drumming and joyful songs. Enjoy this lively cultural experience amid the natural beauty of their village surroundings.
Later, proceed to visit the spectacular Chitrakote Waterfalls, located on the Indravati River. Often referred to as the “Niagara of India,” this majestic waterfall cascades dramatically over a wide horseshoe-shaped gorge, offering breathtaking views. Spend time admiring the scenic landscape and, if time permits, enjoy the mesmerizing sunset as the golden light reflects off the misty waters — a truly unforgettable sight.
Return to your resort in Jagdalpur by evening.
Dinner and Over Night Stay In Jagdalpur.
Day 12: Jagdalpur – Kanker (Approx. 4 hrs)
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to nearby villages inhabited by the Bhatra Tribe, known for their vibrant traditions and friendly demeanor. Stroll through the villages to observe their daily life, simple homes, and deep connection with nature.
Later, drive towards Kanker, stopping en route at Kondagaon, a hub of traditional Dhokra (bell metal) art. Visit the home of a local Dhokra artist to witness the intricate process of crafting beautiful figurines and decorative pieces using the ancient lost-wax casting technique. These artisans also excel in terracotta and wrought iron crafts, showcasing the artistic spirit of the Bastar region.
Continue your journey, visiting the Halba and Bhatra tribal markets, where locally crafted artifacts, tools, and ornaments are displayed with great pride. These lively markets offer a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship that define this region’s cultural identity.
By evening, arrive at the elegant Kanker Palace, your heritage stay for the night. Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the royal family, who will share stories of the region’s history and traditions, making your stay both comfortable and memorable.
Dinner and Over Night Stay In Kanker Palace.
After breakfast, set out on an excursion to the nearby Muria tribal villages, known for their warm hospitality, artistic traditions, and vibrant community life. The Muria people are celebrated for their distinctive handicrafts and deep-rooted cultural values that continue to thrive amid the lush landscapes of Bastar.
Continue exploring nearby Gond and Muria villages around Kanker, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into their lifestyle, art, and traditional beliefs. During your visit, you will also learn about the unique Ghotul institution—a traditional community center that once served as a social and cultural learning space for the youth. The Ghotul played an important role in preserving tribal customs, oral traditions, music, and dance.
Enjoy witnessing the lively Ghotul dance performances, featuring rhythmic movements and folk music forms such as Mandri, Gedi, and Hulki dances—each reflecting the tribe’s joyful connection with nature and community.
Savor a picnic lunch under the shade of a village tree, surrounded by the tranquil rural ambiance. Later, return to Kanker Palace to relax and enjoy the royal hospitality.
Dinner and Over Night Stay In Kanker Palace.
After breakfast, bid farewell to the royal hosts at Kanker Palace and drive to Raipur Airport (approx. 3 hrs). Upon arrival, board your flight to Delhi and later connect with your international flight for your journey home.
Your memorable journey through the tribal heartlands of Odisha and Chhattisgarh concludes today — enriched with unforgettable experiences of vibrant cultures, ancient traditions, and natural wonders.
Tour Ends with the Warm Wishes of Royal Wheels India.
