Chhattisgarh & Odisha Ethnic Tour – 18 Day
Tour overview
Echoes of the Ancients: An 18-Day Private Ethnic Expedition through the Tribal Heartland of Chhattisgarh & Odisha with Travel Astu
Venture into the soul of "Unknown India" with Travel Astu, your expert in high-sensitivity ethnic and anthropological travel. This 18-day "Primal Path" expedition by Astu is a masterfully curated tribal heartland itinerary that bridges the rugged forests of Chhattisgarh with the misty hills of Southern Odisha. Travel Astu Pvt Ltd has engineered this comprehensive 18-day immersive program to offer a rare window into the lives of the world’s most primitive and preserved communities—from the tattooed Baiga of Bhoramdeo to the elusive Bonda and Dongria Kondh tribes.
Your private ethnic sanctuary with Astu Travel is defined by logistical precision and deep cultural respect. Navigating these remote regions requires a premium private vehicle and a driver-partner who understands the local geography. To ensure a world-class experience, we prioritize the "Market Rhythm," timing your journey to coincide with weekly tribal gatherings where ancient barter systems and colorful traditions come to life. Stay in a blend of Royal Palaces like Kanker and eco-conscious village cottages in Desia, all while supported by our 24/7 guest relations team. With Astu, your 18-day odyssey is not just a tour; it is a profound journey of human connection and prehistoric discovery.
Day to day itinerary
Assistance on arrival at Raipur transfer to Bharomdeo. The baiga tribe is one of the unexplored tribe in central India who leaves in forests. They depend on forest products to leave and some do cultivation on top of mountains. The Baiga women defferenciate from others with their distinct tatoo on forehead. Afternoon visit to their weekly market at Bodla. Overnight.
Full day visit and trek into remote Baiga tribal villages with picnic lunch. The baiga tribe is one of the unexplored tribe in central India who leaves in forests. They depend on forest products to leave and some do cultivation on top of mountains. The Baiga women defferenciate from others with their distinct tatoo on forehead. Afternoon visit to their weekly market at Chilpi. Overnight.
After breakfast drive for Kanker on the way visiting Bidi (Indian Cigarette) makers village and their factory. In the afternoon arriving in Kanker Palace, where you will be greeted by the Prince with a Royal welcome. Overnight at Kanker Palace.
After breakfast visit to Muria tribal villages, See the Ghotul system in their village, where young boys & girls can mix together to discuss about the festvities, future life and communal development. Also one can enjoy their wonderful food with local Trudy . Afternoon visit their market. Overnight at Kanker Palace.
Post breakfast get a royal farewell and drive for Jagdalpur , on the way visit Kondagaon tribal craft of Bell metal, Wrought iron and terracotta. Afternoon visit Halba tribal villages. Overnight at Bastar Jungle resort.
Morning visit to Bison-horn Maria tribe, famous for their weaving, dance & hospitality. These people made their head-dress from bison horns & peacock feathers. Afternoon visit to Kanger Valley national park to trek inside to see more maria tribal villages and DHURUWA Community including pictursque Tirathgarh Waterfall. Overnight. TOKPAL Weekly Market.
Full day trekking in visiting Gond and maria tribal villages in and around Kanger Valley national park to see more maria tribal villages and pictursque Tirathgarh Waterfall. Overnight. Weekly Tribal Market
After breakfast drive to Jeypore visiting Kotpad weaving village, where raw silk threads are processed by vegetable colors and later in the handloom made in to different garments like sarees, Scarfs etc. Overnight at Hotel in jeypore.
After breakfast drive to Onukudeli Market to see one of the most primitive tribe of the world, The Bondas & Gadabas. Overnight at Desia Village Cottage.
Morning drive to Jaipore en-route visiting paraja & Mali tribal villages and market, differentiate from others. These people are very good cultivators and very colorful. Overnight at Desia Village Cottage.
Full day trekking with picnic lunch in visiting Paraja, Mali & Sana Gadaba tribal villages, Where each and every one different from others with their jewellery, language and religion. Overnight at Desia Village Cottage
After breakfast drive to Kakirguma en route visit Rana Tribes and Kondh villages. Also take the photography of scenic Valley at Deomali range. Overnight at Chandoro Sai.
After breakfast take a day for the visit weekly market at Kakirguma and photography. Afternoon walks into the village. Overnight at Chandori Sai.
After breakfast drive to Rayagada en route visiting, Bada Paraja tribe and Mali Tribal villages, Bamboo basket weaver’s village & Muniaka Kondh tribal village. Overnight at hotel in Rayagada.
After breakfast, morning drive to Chatikona Market to see Dongria Kondh tribe, different from others with their distinct hair dresses & jewelery. After lunch drive to Gopalpur. Overnight in Gopalpur.
After breakfast, proceed to Puri by surface en-route visiting local villages where one can meet and interact with the local people and enjoy their culture and traditions. Also visit Chilka lake to see the migratory birds and latter check into the Hotel. Overnight stay will be at Puri
After breakfast leasure of the day OR can be explored the heritage village and photography of traditional villages. Overnight at Puri.
Today you will explore the World Heritage site in Konark to witness the Sun God. Also visit the Fishermen villages at Chandrabhaga beach. Later proceed to Bhubaneswar and visit the city of Temples. Evening fly back to on ward destination
Tour Ends
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Travel Astu (also known as Astu) operates with a "Community-First" philosophy. We work closely with local guides who belong to these regions to ensure our presence is respectful and beneficial. We follow strict protocols regarding photography and interaction to preserve the dignity of the tribes.
We provide a curated mix of stays. You will experience the grandeur of the Kanker Palace, the comfort of the Bastar Jungle Resort, and authentic village cottages in Desia. While the areas are remote, Travel Astu Pvt Ltd ensures your stays are clean, safe, and rich in local character with private bathroom facilities.
In tribal India, the Haat (Weekly Market) is the social and economic heart of the community. It is the only time many of these tribes leave their forest homes. By timing our tour with these markets, Astu Travel allows you to see the tribes in their most vibrant and authentic environment.
Given the terrain, we provide a premium, well-maintained AC vehicle with an experienced driver who knows the tribal belts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha intimately. Your Travel Astu driver is not just a transporter but a vital part of your support team, assisted by our 24/7 Tour Manager via WhatsApp.
Photography is a sensitive matter. Your Astu guide will inform you where it is permitted and where it is not. In many markets, it is welcomed, but in some sacred or private areas, it may be restricted. We always ask for permission first to maintain a respectful relationship.
Yes. Tribal and rural Indian diets are very rich in grains, pulses, and fresh vegetables. Whether at the Kanker Palace or the Desia Cottage, we can coordinate with our local hosts to provide delicious, hygienic vegetarian meals that reflect the local flavors.
On Day 18, after visiting the Konark Sun Temple and the temple city of Bhubaneswar, your private vehicle and Travel Astu representative will escort you to the airport. We ensure you arrive in time for your flight, concluding your journey through the tribal heartland with absolute ease.
