Day 1-2: Bhubaneswar – The Temple City

Welcome to Bhubaneswar, where centuries of history and spirituality unfold in stunning architectural marvels. After a warm welcome at the airport and a seamless check-in at your luxury hotel, take the night to rest, before you begin your journey through Odisha’s cultural heartland.

Next morning you will be joined by our local guide for a city tour. Start with the grand Lingaraj Temple, the intricately carved Mukteshwar and Rajarani Temples, and the ancient rock-cut wonders of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, echoing stories of Jain ascetics, monks and scholars.

Visit Odisha’s rich tribal heritage at the state museum and witness the rare white tigers at Nandankanan Zoo. Between explorations, indulge in authentic Odia cuisine, savouring blends of mild spices, mustard seeds, and coconut with an emphasis on simplicity and purity, that have been perfected over generations. Here, amidst the fusion of the ancient and the contemporary, your journey into India’s untouched story truly begins.

Day 3: Puri – Land of the Lord Jagannath

Journey onward to Puri, the spiritual heart of Odisha, where the revered Jagannath Temple stands as a symbol of devotion and grandeur. En route, stop at Dhauli, the ancient peace pagoda, Pipli, known for its vibrant appliqué art, where intricate fabric canopies, wall hangings, and lampshades are handcrafted by skilled artisans and Raghurajpur, a heritage crafts village where intricate Pattachitra paintings come to life.

Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before unwinding on Puri’s golden beach, where the rhythmic waves of the Bay of Bengal create a tranquil escape. Stay overnight in Puri.

Day 4-5: Gopalpur – A Tranquil Coastal Escape

After breakfast, witness the divine aura of the Jagannath Temple before heading to the UNESCO-listed Sun Temple in Konark, an architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God.

Along the way, visit the Ramchandi Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach, and a traditional fishing village, offering a glimpse into the coastal life of Odisha. As the day winds down, explore Puri’s lively beach market before retreating to your stay, soaking in the town’s spiritual and coastal charm.

Post lunch, drive to Gopalpur-on-Sea, a serene beach town where golden sands meet the rhythmic waves of the Bay of Bengal. Stop at Chilika Lake, India’s largest brackish water lagoon, and embark on a boat cruise to Birds Island and Nalabana Island, home to vibrant migratory birds and playful Irrawaddy dolphins.

Upon arrival in Gopalpur, settle into your seaside retreat, stroll along its quiet shores, and visit the old Gopalpur Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.

Day 6-7: Rayagada – Gateway to Odisha’s Tribal Heartland

Spend two days in Rayagada, a cultural crossroads where Odisha’s indigenous traditions come alive. En route, stop at Taptapani, a natural hot sulfur spring, and visit the Saura tribal villages, known for their vibrant wall murals. Experience the bustling Desia Kondh weekly market in Dukum (held on Tuesdays), where tribal communities gather to trade and celebrate their heritage. Later, explore the Dhokra crafts village of Jhigidi, where artisans create exquisite metalwork using ancient techniques, before returning to Rayagada for the night.

Day 8: Jeypore – Tribal Markets & Waterfalls

A short drive from Rayagada takes you to Jeypore, a gateway to Odisha’s most fascinating tribal cultures. Begin with a visit to Chatikona’s vibrant weekly market, where the Dongria Kondh, one of the most ancient and reclusive tribes, descend from the Niyamgiri Hills to trade forest produce. Continue to Minapai, a village renowned for its intricate bamboo crafts. Add a visit to Ankadelli’s Bonda market, where the striking Bonda women, adorned in layers of beads and silver jewelry, trade forest produce and handcrafted goods. Later, marvel at the breathtaking Duduma Waterfalls, a spectacular cascade set amidst lush greenery.

Day 9-10: Jagdalpur:

Cross into Chhattisgarh and arrive in Jagdalpur, the cultural heart of the Bastar region, where tribal traditions and breathtaking landscapes merge. En route, visit Kunduli’s bustling Paraja tribal market, the largest in the area, where you can witness vibrant exchanges of local crafts and fresh produce. Stop by the Jagannath Temple and Tribal Museum in Koraput before continuing to Kotpad, a weaving village renowned for its natural-dyed textiles. Arrive in Jagdalpur for an overnight luxurious stay.

The next day, venture into Kanger Valley National Park, a biodiverse haven of dense forests, caves, and waterfalls. Experience the Maria & Muria tribal market in Mardoom, where indigenous communities gather in colorful traditional attire. Later, visit the awe-inspiring Chitrakote Falls, India’s widest waterfall, often called the ‘Niagara of India’, where the Indravati River plunges in a dramatic cascade.

Day 11-12: Kanker – A Royal Retreat

Leaving Jagdalpur behind, journey to Kanker, a town steeped in history and tribal heritage. Stay at the elegant Kanker Palace, where colonial charm meets modern comfort, offering a regal retreat amidst lush green surroundings. Engage with the local tribal communities, witnessing their traditional dance performances and rich cultural expressions.

Explore the dense forests of Keshkal Ghat, a biodiverse haven offering glimpses of rare birds, wild elephants, and other native species in breathtaking landscapes. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Maria and Muria tribes, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Their traditions, art, and folklore add an intriguing cultural depth to the journey. Nearby villages showcase the distinctive Ghotul system, a unique tribal institution of learning and social bonding.

Day 13-14: Grand Finale at Bhoramdeo – The Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh

Conclude your journey in Bhoramdeo, a hidden gem nestled in the Maikal Hills. Known as the "Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh," this thousand-year-old temple complex is a masterpiece of intricate carvings and spiritual grandeur. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Bhoramdeo’s sculpted walls depict deities, mythological tales, and scenes of daily life, showcasing the artistic brilliance of a bygone era.

Surrounded by dense forests and a serene lake, the temple exudes a mystical charm, making it a perfect place to reflect on your journey. Take a final stroll through the tribal villages, engage with indigenous communities, or simply soak in the tranquillity of nature before bidding farewell.