Why Choose a Tribes Tour in Orissa?
Odisha has the highest concentration of tribal population in India. Unlike popular urban destinations, this journey is about slow, respectful, and meaningful travel.
Top reasons to go on a Tribes Tour in Orissa:
- Explore vibrant weekly tribal markets like Onukudelli and Chatikona
- Interact with tribes like the Bonda, Dongria Kondh, and Gadaba
- Learn about tribal dance, costumes, and unique belief systems
- Experience rural life, local festivals, and sustainable living
- Support community-based tourism and local artisans
Top Tribal Communities You’ll Encounter
1. Bonda Tribe (Malkangiri District)
The Bonda are one of India’s most ancient and fiercely independent tribes, known for their distinct jewelry, shaved heads, and minimal clothing.
- Highlights: Visit Onukudelli market on Thursdays
- Note: Strict guidelines are followed to protect their privacy — always travel with authorized local guides
2. Dongria Kondh (Niyamgiri Hills)
Guardians of the Niyamgiri forest, the Dongria Kondhs are known for their deep connection to nature and distinctive facial tattoos.
- Highlights: Trek into Niyamgiri hills, visit Chatikona market
- Culture: Agricultural rituals, community farming, and animist beliefs
3. Gadaba Tribe (Koraput Region)
The Gadaba are known for their dance, jewelry, and colorful traditional saris.
- Highlights: Watch Dhemsa dance and visit Gadaba villages
- Language: Speak both Gadaba and Oriya dialects
4. Saura Tribe (Rayagada & Gajapati)
Renowned for their Saura paintings, this tribe uses intricate art to tell stories of myths, ancestors, and festivals.
- Highlights: Art workshops, mural painting villages
- Religion: Blend of animism and Hinduism
5. Kutia Kondh (Kalahandi Region)
A sub-group of the Kondh tribe, Kutia women traditionally tattoo their faces and hands.
- Highlights: Traditional song performances, herbal medicine knowledge
- Best Time to Visit: Winter village festivals (Dec–Feb)
Sample 10-Day Tribes Tour Itinerary in Orissa
Day 1: Arrival in Bhubaneswar
- Visit Tribal Museum for an overview
- Explore ancient temples and local markets
Day 2: Bhubaneswar to Baliguda
- Drive through scenic hills
- Stop at Saura villages and artisan centers
Day 3: Baliguda – Kutia Kondh Villages
- Visit weekly haat (market)
- Learn about tattoo traditions and forest living
Day 4: Baliguda to Rayagada
- En route visits to tribal schools and local farming cooperatives
- Evening cultural performance by Kondh community
Day 5: Chatikona Market & Dongria Kondh Villages
- Trek to remote villages with a local guide
- Observe daily life, farming, and crafts
Day 6: Rayagada to Jeypore
- Visit Gadaba and Paroja tribal villages
- Enjoy a traditional Dhemsa dance event
Day 7: Onukudelli Market – Meet the Bonda Tribe
- Thursday visit to the vibrant Onukudelli tribal market
- Interact with Bonda, Gadaba, and Didayi tribes
- Explore tribal jewelry and produce markets
Day 8: Jeypore – Lamtaput & Tribal Villages
- Relaxed village walk
- Optional homestay experience
Day 9: Jeypore to Visakhapatnam
- Scenic drive
- Explore coastal town before departure
Day 10: Departure from Visakhapatnam
Best Time for a Tribes Tour in Orissa
| Season |
Months |
Experience |
| Winter |
Oct – Mar |
Pleasant weather, tribal festivals |
| Summer |
Apr – Jun |
Very hot, not recommended |
| Monsoon |
Jul – Sept |
Lush scenery but limited access |
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Accommodations
- Basic lodges, eco-resorts, and community-run homestays
- Some nights in tribal villages (with prior approval)
Transportation
- Private vehicle with a driver/guide
- Hilly and rural roads — some long travel days
Communication
- English-speaking guides available
- Tribal dialects are diverse and rarely spoken outside the community
What to Pack
- Modest cotton clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
- Lightweight trekking shoes
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle
- Flashlight and power bank
- Gifts for hosts (optional and should be non-monetary)
- Personal medications and photocopies of ID
Responsible Tourism Guidelines
- No unauthorized photography: Always ask permission first
- Avoid handing out money or gifts directly
- Support local craft cooperatives and markets
- Travel in small groups to minimize cultural intrusion
- Respect privacy: These are living communities, not displays
Cultural Highlights of a Tribal Tour in Odisha
- Dhemsa Dance: A circle dance performed during festivals
- Haat Markets: Weekly events that are economic and social hubs
- Tribal Art: Saura paintings, bead jewelry, bamboo and terracotta craft
- Sacred Groves & Rituals: Animist worship and harvest ceremonies
- Cuisine: Millet-based meals, forest vegetables, rice beer (handia)
Final Thoughts on Tribes Tour Orissa
A Tribes Tour in Orissa is a deeply enriching experience that goes beyond sightseeing. It’s a rare chance to witness ancient traditions that have survived modern times through resilience, community, and reverence for nature. Odisha’s tribal communities offer profound insights into humanity’s bond with the land — and remind us of simpler, sustainable ways of living.
Travel slowly, listen openly, and return with stories that connect you to India’s oldest living cultures.
