East India & Orissa
This fascinating journey explores a little-known and largely unexplored corner of India, taking you deep into the tribal heartland of Odisha in eastern India. Begin in the atmospheric colonial city of Kolkata before travelling into remote tribal villages, where ancient traditions and ways of life have endured for generations. Along the way, discover the legacy of the British Raj, visit remarkable temples and monasteries, meet diverse tribal communities, and gain an insight into their fascinating cultures, customs and daily lives. The itinerary will be carefully timed to coincide with weekly tribal markets, offering a unique opportunity to witness these vibrant gatherings and authentic traditions.
Journey Highlights
Experience early morning rush at Flower Market of Kolkata
Explore Bhubaneswar, home to ancient temples, sacred heritage and Odisha’s fascinating tribal culture
Discover Konark, home to the magnificent Sun Temple, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Journey through Rayagada, the gateway to Odisha’s tribal heartland and its timeless traditions
Get to know Hyderabad, where majestic forts, grand palaces, vibrant bazaars and a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions come together
Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive Kolkata
On arrival in Kolkata, you’ll be met by your Indus Bound Representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Spend the remainder of the day recovering from your journey, and perhaps a stroll around the local neighborhood later.
DAY 02
In Kolkata
Spend a full day exploring Kolkata, beginning with an early morning visit to the vibrant flower market, followed by a relaxing boat ride along the Hooghly River. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the fascinating Indian Museum.
DAY 03
Fly to Bhubaneshwar
Fly to Bhubaneswar this morning and check in at your hotel. Later, explore the historic temple city on a guided walking tour, discovering its remarkable collection of ancient temples, including the magnificent Lingaraja and rare Brahma Temple, beautifully situated beside the sacred Bindusagar Lake.
DAY 04
In Bhubaneshwar
Spend the morning exploring the twin hills of Khandagiri and Udayagiri, home to remarkable rock-cut caves built for Jain monks between the 1st and 2nd centuries BC. Return to Bhubaneswar to visit the Tribal Art Museum, offering fascinating insights into the cultures and traditions of Odisha’s 62 tribal communities.
DAY 05
Drive to Puri
Begin with a short (1–2 hours) drive to Puri this morning. En route, visit Dhauli, where Emperor Ashoka is believed to have embraced Buddhism, followed by Pipli village, renowned for its colourful appliqué handicrafts. After time to relax at your hotel, visit the impressive Jagannath Temple, viewing it from the outside only.
DAY 06
In Puri
Visit the magnificent 13th-century Konark Sun Temple, then meet a fishing community at Chandrabhaga Beach. Later, explore Raghurajpur artisan village, renowned for its traditional Pattachitra paintings, passed down through generations of skilled Chitrakar artists.
DAY 07
Drive to Gopalpur
This morning, drive to Chilika Lake, the world’s largest coastal lagoon, and enjoy a boat ride to spot Irrawaddy dolphins and abundant birdlife. After lunch on an island, continue to Gopalpur (3–4 hours)
DAY 08
Drive to Rayagada
After breakfast, drive to Rayagada (5–6 hours), travelling through scenic countryside, teak plantations and forests before entering the tribal heartland of Odisha. En route, visit the silk-weaving village of Berhampur and the sulphur-rich hot springs of Taptapani. As you approach Rayagada, encounter your first Saura tribal village.
DAY 09
Drive to Goudaguda
After breakfast, visit the Dongria Kondh market at Chhatikona, meeting the community and witnessing their vibrant local trade. Enjoy a picnic lunch before visiting a Mali tribal community and learning about their traditional way of life. Continue to rural Goudaguda (02–03 hours) for a two-night stay.
DAY 10
In Goudaguda
Start early this morning for Onkudelli, home to the fascinating weekly market of the Bonda tribe, one of India’s oldest indigenous communities. Witness their distinctive traditional dress and jewellery, before experiencing a vibrant Demsa tribal dance performance in Kangarpada village.
DAY 11
Drive to Visakhapatnam
After breakfast, drive to Visakhapatnam, stopping en route at Kunduli to visit the fascinating weekly market where the Paraja tribe gathers every Friday. Continue to Visakhapatnam for an overnight stay, with the remainder of the day at leisure to relax and unwind.
DAY 12
Fly to Hyderabad
This morning, visit the remarkable living Simhachalam Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha and Varaha avatars and dating back to the 11th century. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Hyderabad. The remainder of the day is free to relax.
DAY 13
In Hyderabad
Visit magnificent Golconda Fort and the Qutb Shahi Tombs, admiring their blend of Hindu, Pathan, Deccan and Persian influences. Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at Simply South, followed by a village visit to discover Hyderabad’s finest traditional weaving skills.
DAY 14
In Hyderabad
Explore Hyderabad’s Old City on an immersive walking tour around the iconic Charminar, discovering its vibrant stories, aromas and flavours. Continue to the magnificent Chowmahalla Palace, admiring its architectural splendour and rich heritage, before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure.
DAY 15
Departure
At the appropriate time, transfer to Hyderabad International Airport for your flight back home, or continue your onward journey with us.
Enquiry
Starting from USD 1930 Per Person*
* lean season and based on comfortable hotels
Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to change depending on the hotels selected and travel dates.
Your tour includes daily breakfast, all monument entrance fees, expert local guides, domestic flights, airport transfers, a private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned SUV, and all applicable taxes.
“Beyond the familiar paths of India lies Odisha’s tribal heartland—a place of timeless traditions, vibrant communities and cultures that have endured for generations.”
Hotel Ideas
These are some of the recommended hotels for your private tour
The Oberoi Grand
Kolkata
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Calcutta Bungalow
Kolkata
HOMESTAY, HERITAGE
The Rajbari Bawali
Kolkata
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Taj Falaknuma Palace
Hyderabad
OPULENT, HERITAGE
The Trident
Bhubaneswar
FIRST CLASS
"An incredible trip to India"
Dear Pankaj, you delivered what we had been missing during our last six trips to India—a truly authentic Indian experience! Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned, allowing us to connect with the culture, people, and destinations in a much more meaningful way. A piece of advice for anyone hesitating to work with you: If you are tired of cookie-cutter tours and are looking for an authentic, personalised travel experience in India, you are absolutely in the right place. Thank you for creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ms Elaine & Mr Wayne Helson, UK
"Nothing Short of Extraordinary"
We have had the most amazing time, great hotels and great experiences. Our drivers and guides have been excellent, in particular Govinder Raj who has been our driver and companion for the last ten days. Govinder has been extremely obliging and has made sure we have been safe and where we should be, on time, with all our belongings and with a stack of goodies and water. He has kept the car immaculate both inside and out, and has driven us with care and skill on all our journeys. Your planning of all the inclusions such are the ceremonies at temples, boat rides and the Everest Flight made the whole trip one never to forget.
Mr & Mrs Davies-Webb, UK
"Highly Recommended"
I wanted to take the time to thank you for all the hard work you put in to arrange a magical honeymoon for us. We had a ball. All the transfers worked like clockwork, the hotels were great and the route planning excellent. We really felt we were spoon-fed all the way through.
Ms Gayle Rawes & Mr Andrew Slatford, UK
"Superb Service"
The outcome of this trip far exceeded our expectations and we would recommend your agency without any reservation. Our sincerest thanks for a well planned and executed tour.
Mr Eugene & Ms Mirasol Johnson, USA
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