Explore and experience the real charm of colorful culture and tradition of tribal life tours of Odisha (Orissa). This itinerary has specially designed for special interest guest like photographers, someone who are ready to explore something different. Also we would like to mention here that at some places the accommodation is basic and we will offer the best which is available. In this tour we have included visit to the most colorful tribes such as Kutia Kondha, Kondha, Desia tribe, Dongaria Kondh, Gadabas, Mali, Porajas , Lanjhiya Saroas at their village and market and most colorful Bonda Tribe at their market. Though each and every tribal communities have fixed the days of their weekly market, that’s why we mentioned here the days. Most of the tribes are animist (worship and belief to nature), their life style is simple and pure, to encourage their culture. We will be witnessing Joradaa Mahima Cult at Dhenkanal. Exploring some crafts of Iktat weaving, Dhokra casting and applique work. If possible try to buy their handicraft and product directly to respect their culture and encourage the responsible tour.
Breakfast at the hotel. Meet and transfer to the Airport for flight to Bhubaneshwar. Arrive and proceed for visit to the Chausath Yogini temple.After visits check-in at the hotel.
Bhubaneshwar, which means “The Lord of the Universe”, is the modern capital of the State of Orissa. Once the capital of the Kalinga Empire, there are several sites in the vicinity which testifies the importance of the region far earlier than the 7th century when the Kalinga kings started their rule over this region and beyond.
The 64 Yogini Shrines in Orissa provide a glimpse into the religious sand occult practices from the medieval times that are still alive in Orissa's tribal traditions and folklore. Built during the 9th century to harness the supernatural powers, only four of the architecturally distinct 64 Yogini Shrines survive in India today. Two of the temples are in Orissa - at Hirapur near Bhubaneswar (15 km), and the twin villages of Ranipur and Jharial. The other two 64 Yogini Shrines are present in Khajuraho and Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh.
These 64 deities carved from fine-grained gray chlorite are goddess with voluptuous figures or animal faces and shrunken skulls give the 64 Yogini Shrines its name. These goddesses in turn serve Goddess Kali (Bhairavi). The Yogini cult, an offshoot of tantric practices in India during the 9th -13th century, believed that by worshipping the 64 goddesses and the Goddess Bhairavi, they would be able to channel the destructive energies of these deities to acquire positive supernatural powers for themselves including the ability to shape shift and become invisible.
Overnight stay in Bhubneshwar
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning: Sightseeing of Bhubneshwar. Afternoon: Excursion of Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves.
Strewn with a multitude of temples of various sizes, the earliest temples built in Bhubaneswar are the Brahmeshwar and the Parasurameshwar temples of the 7th century. The latter is famous for its latticed windows. The Mukteswar Temple built in the 10th century has exquisite toranas, the 11th Century temples of Rajarani Temple has fine and detailed carvings while the magnificent Linga Raja temple also of the 11th century (can be seen only from outside by non Hindus) is the finest representation of Kalinga art.
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves One of the earliest groups of Jain rock-cut shelters, the caves of Udayagiri (Hill of Sunrise) and Khandagiri (Broken Hills) command a unique position in the filed of history, rock-cut architecture, art and religion. The two hills rise abruptly from the coastal plain, about six km west of Bhubaneswar, separated by a highway.
Called lena, in the inscriptions, the caves of Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves are essentially dwelling retreats or cells of the Jain ascetics, opening directly into the verandah or the open space in front. Mostly excavated near the top of the ledge or boulder, they simply provided dry shelter for meditation and prayer, with very little amenities even for small comforts. The height being too low, does not allow a man to stand erect.
Each cell was tenanted by several monks. The cells are austerely plain, but their facades are encrusted with sculptures depicting auspicious objects worshiped by Jains, court scenes, royal processions, hunting expeditions and scenes of daily life. The austere later additions, when Jainism no longer enjoyed royal patronage in this part, show 24 Jain tirthankars. At present, all the important caves have been numbered for to avoid confusion in nomenclature.
Overnight stay in Bhubneshwar
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, drive to Dhenkanal (105 kms / approx. 2 hrs). Arrive Dhenkanal and check-in at hotel. After lunch, visit Joranda to see the Mahima cult and witness a religious ceremony at the temple.
Dhenkanal is the religious headquarters of the Mahima Cult - probably the only major religious sect to originate from Orissa.
Joranda Mahima Alekh Ashram
The world famous headquarters of ‘Mahima Dharma’, Joranda is the holiest place for its followers. The Gadi Manidr, Dhuni Mandir, Jyoti Mandir & the Ashrams are within the exquisite temple complex.
Overnight stay in Dhenkanal
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, leave for Bhubaneshwar (175 kms). Enroute see Ikat weaving at Nuapatna. This gloriously woven, blurry edged, gem-colored design, in gorgeous yarn of silk and cotton has become synonymous with Orissa. Also see Dhokra casting at Sadeibarini. Afternoon leave for Puri, en-route visiting Dhauli & Pipli. Arrive in Puri and check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Speaking eloquently of its old maritime linkages with Bali, the Ikat tradition of Orissa is the intricate process of tie and dye i.e. knotting selections of yarn before dipping them in separate colours one at a time and finally weaving them to produce one of the most delightful designs in multi-hued tones, in motifs drawn from the richness of nature. Dhokra casting, a variety of metal casting is essentially a folk craft and is limited to a few pockets of Orissa. In Sadeiberni, in Dhenkanal district, it is being practiced by an aboriginal caste called sithulias. While the lost wax process is followed, the raw materials used are not pure brass but contain miscellaneous scraps of other metals which give it an antique look. Its motifs are mostly drawn from folk culture.
Dhokra casting, a variety of metal casting is essentially a folk craft and is limited to a few pockets of Orissa. In Sadeibarni, in Dhenkanal district, it is being practiced by an aboriginal caste called sithulias. While the lost wax process is followed, the raw materials used are not pure brass but contain miscellaneous scraps of other metals which give it an antique look. Its motifs are mostly drawn from folk culture.
The village of Pipliis famous for its appliqué work.
Dhauligiri, a hillside with another name as Dhauli located on the River Daya banks, is 8 km far from the south of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa. You can find splendid Edicts of Ashoka embossed on a mass of rock in Dhauli, beside the way to the hill summit. It is believed that Dhauli hill was the battlefield of the Kalinga War. The marvelous Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda is also located here.In the result of the bloodbath taken place in the Kalinga War, the water of the River Daya got red, making Ashoka understand the gloomiest side of a battle, turning him into the propagator of peace. Later, with his help, Dhauli became a major Buddhist centre, when he built several chaityas, stupas and pillars here.
Puri (62 kms from Bhubaneswar) is one of the four Dhams of India, the abode of Lord Jagannath. Situated right on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, Puri has been a centre of pilgrimage since the days history could reckon. It is famous for the massive chariot-cars used in the annual Rath Yatra Procession.
Overnight stay in Puri
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning : Excursion to Konarak. On return visit Chaitana village (stone carver's village).Visit the Jagannath temple from the library opposite to it. You can walk in the bazaar around the temple.
One of the most stunning symbols of architecture, the Sun Temple at Konark also known as the Black Pagoda is the crowning glory of Orissan temple art. Built in the 13th century, the entire temple was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot, carrying the Sun god, Surya, pulled by seven horses. The 24 giant wheels of the chariot symbolize the division of time. The temple is a brilliant chronicle in stone, with thousands of images including deities, heavenly damsels, and human musicians, lovers, dancers, birds, animals and a plethora of intricate geometrical decorative designs.
Overnight stay in Puri
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning visit Raghurajpur. Later leave for Chilika lake, located at a distance of 50 kms (approx 1 hr). Visit a Fisherman's village near Chilika. After visit leave for Gopalpur (approx 2 hrs). Arrive in Gopalpur, check – in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Raghurajpur is famous for its Pattachitra paintings, Masks, Palm leaf etchings and the making of Ganjifa cards. This is a fascinating village, populated only by Crafts people.
Spread over 1,100 sq. km. Chilika is the country’s largest inland lake. Dotted with islands, it has the richest variety of aquatic fauna and is a bird watcher’s paradise when migratory birds arrive in winter. Sunset and Sunrise are memorable experiences here. The lake is rich in fish. One can also view the dolphins at Chilika mouth near Satpara.
Overnight stay in Chilika
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave of Rayagada visiting ancient shiva temple & hot water spring at Taptapani en-route. Visit a village of Saora Tribe en-route. Arrive in Rayagada, check – in at the hotel.
The Saorasconstitute a major tribe of Orissa having a population of over 3.30 lacs. As one of the primitive tribes profusely finds mention in the epigraphic records and ancient literature of India.Saoras are widely distributed in Ganjam and Bolangir Districts. The Saoras in general speak Austro Asiatic language of the Munda family. The Saoras have a stratified society with Gamang as the social and political head of the village assisted by Dal Behera and Mondal Buyya, the religious head, performs all religious functions according to the traditions.Saora marriage is not an elaborate affair.The common form of marriage is arranged by the parents and relatives. Marriage by capture and service is not rare. Polygamy is very widely prevalent among them. The Saora pantheon consists of innumerable malevolent and benevolent deities and the deified ancestors who are constantly watchful of the doings of the living generations. The Saoras observe a number of ceremonies at different stanges of cultivation and other economic pursuits. The Saoras dance occasionally during their ceremonies and marriages.
Overnight stay in Rayagada
Breakfast at the hotel. Full day excursion to visit village of Kondh tribe and other nearby villages for tribal crafts, metal work, terracotta and wood carving.
The Kondhsare one of the well-known tribes of Orissa who were known for their Meriah-Human Sacrifice. Kondhs life is full of festivities. The important festivals are at the time of sowing and harvesting. The Kondhs belong to the Dravidian group and speak Kui language. Their weapon is bow and arrow by which they defend themselves from wild animals.
Overnight stay in Rayagada
Breakfast at the hotel. Full day excursion to visit Putasingh tribal market in the morning. Later visit a village of the Lanjhiya Saora tribe. Overnight at the hotel.
The Saoras constitute a major tribe of Orissa having a population of over 3.30 lacs. As one of the primitive tribes profusely finds mention in the epigraphic records and ancient literature of India. Saoras are widely distributed in Ganjam and Bolangir Districts. The Saoras in general speak Austro Asiatic language of the Munda family. The Saoras have a stratified society with Gamang as the social and political head of the village assisted by Dal Behera and Mondal. Buyya, the religious head, performs all religious functions according to the traditions. Saora marriage is not an elaborate affair. The common form of marriage is arranged by the parents and relatives. Marriage by capture and service is not rare. Polygamy is very widely prevalent among them. The Saora pantheon consists of innumerable malevolent and benevolent deities and the deified ancestors who are constantly watchful of the doings of the living generations. The Saoras observe a number of ceremonies at different stages of cultivation and other economic pursuits. The Saoras dance occasionally during their ceremonies and marriages.
Overnight stay in Rayagada
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave for Majhiguda market – a less known market where you can see the Dongria Kondh tribe. You can also visit a Dongria Kondh village in the area.
This Haat is attended by the famed Dongria Kondhs. The Dhonghria Kondh belongs to the Kondh group. This will be a unique opportunity to see such colorful concentration of typical tribes at one place.
Overnight stay in Rayagada
After breakfast, leave for Semiliguda. Enroute visit the market at Nandpur where you will find the Poroja tribe. Time permitting you can stop at a tribal village. Arrive Semiliguda and check-in at hotel.
The Porajas or Parajas are the hill cultivators found in the district of Ganjam and undivided Koraput. There are seven classes of these Parajas, which differ from each other in points of language, customs and traditions. The Parajas seem to have been inhabiting this country from about the second century of the Christian era.
Overnight stay in Semiliguda
Early breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, leave for Onkadelli (85 kms / 2 hrs) to see the weekly market of the Bonda tribe, who come here to by provisions and sell forest produce. Later visit to a Gadaba village. Also see their tribal dance. Return to Semiliguda at your hotel.
In this district of Koraput - on the northwest of river Machkund, live the wildest, rudest and possibly the most interesting tribe known as Bonda Tribe. The scanty dress of the Bonda women and homicidal tendency of Bonda males make them most fascinating people. Thus they stand in sharp contrast from the neighboring castes and tribes of Orissa. The Bonda call themselves Remo and speak a very difficult Austo-Asiatic language.They are generally agriculturist and expert cultivators. The irrigated and terraced paddy fields on high hills prove their skill in rice cultivation. In spite of their primitiveness & so-called poverty, the Bondas enjoy a high degree of economic sufficiency.
The Gadabas are one of the most colourful and most primitive tribe of Orissa. They are one of the earliest settlers of the country and trace their origin to the time of Ramayana. They are generally seen in the adjoining mountain tracts of Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Their main concentration is in the district of Koraput and their maximum population is in Lamptaput area. They have their own language Gutab and are not a migratory folk. They live permanently in large villages. Their famous dance is Demsa.
Overnight stay in Semliguda
Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the weekly market of Kunduli of the Paraja and Mali tribes. You may also find few Desia Kondhs. Leave for Vishakhapatnam (221 kms / approx. 5 hrs, including stops). Arrive Vishakhapatnam and check-in at hotel. Afternoon proceed for visit the Simhachalam Temple.
The Parajas are found mostly in Koraput district. Their language is Parji. The Parajas have a number of totemistic septs like Bagh-Tiger, Bokda-Gou (goat), Netan-Dog, Pankdki-dove and the like, and harming or eating the totem animal is strictly forbidden, and instead they should be respected. They worship various Gods and Goddesses residing in hills or forests. During wedding the Parjas resort to dance and music.
Visakhapatnam is a coastal, port city, often called "The Jewel of the East Coast", situated in the of Andhra Pradesh, located on the eastern shore of India, nestled among the hills of the Eastern Ghats and facing the Bay of Bengal to the east.
Overnight stay in Vishakhapatnam
Breakfast and depart for the airport for flight back home.
13 Nights & 14 Days
Bhubneshwar – Dhenkanal – Puri – Chilika – Raygada – Semliguda – Vizag - Delhi