Photo expedition with ethnographer to the iconic tattoed tribes of Odisha and Chhattisgarh and Bastar Dussehra festival of Bison Horn Maria Gond tribe


EAST INDIA


September 25 – October 7, 2025
Tour East India

Tour to India expedition to Arunachal Pradesh Tawang Nagaland Konyak Cherrapunjee tour to North East India Indian Tibet

Kaziranga Assam Majuli Torgya Monpa Mon
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heartlands of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, where unique tribal expedition offers an immersive experience into the rich cultural tapestry of India’s most fascinating tribes. We'll explore vibrant weekly markets, interact with the Bonda, Dongoria Kondh, and Paroja tribes, and visit traditional villages where ancient customs and crafts come alive.

From witnessing colorful cultural dances to walking through lush landscapes, this expedition provides a deep, authentic connection to the indigenous heritage of India, far removed from the usual tourist trails.

We will immerse into the the iconic Bastar Dussehra festival of Maria Gond tribe wearing attire made of Bison horns.

Ideal if you are seeking a meaningful cultural exchange and a deeper understanding of India's diverse tribal communities!

Tour to India. Dancing Buddhist monks dressed in ceremonial masks and theatre costumes, Burmese headhunters showing you their trophies, unique Tibetan tribes worshiping of Moon and Sun and wearing rattan pieces in their noses, 20-meter long living root bridges, sophisticated trekking and stirring Tibet landscapes... All that you can find in remote North-East appendix of India in Himalayan foothill - absolutely authentic part of the planet, hardly touched by the time.

SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: September 25 – October 7, 2025

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Number of participants: 7 – 12

Cost per person (based on TWIN/DBL accommodation):
– 2 690 USD subject to 11 – 12 participants, or
– 2 790 USD subject to 9 – 10 participants, or
– 2 990 USD subject to 8 participants, or
– 3 090 USD subject to 7 participants.

10% early booking discount (in case you book before March 25, 2025)

Everything is included, except for:
– international flight to Bhubaneswar and back from Raipur,
– medical travel insurance,
– Indian visa (at USD 60, Indian visa obtained upon arrival to Delhi with pre-visa on the website),
– photography fees.

Estimated cost of flight Moscow – Delhi – Moscow: USD 700 – 1000 (to be bought on your own).
Estimated cost of flight Delhi – Bhubaneswar: USD 70 – 100 (to be bought on your own).
Estimated cost of flight Raipur – Delhi: USD 80 – 140 (to be bought on your own).

Single supplement: USD 490 (provided throughout the entire itinerary)




TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour India


Day 1. September 25, 2025 (Thursday). BHUBANESWAR

Arrival at Bhubaneswar by air.
If time permits, excursion to visit most famous temple – Sun temple of Konark. Konark, located in Odisha, India, is famous for its 13th-century Sun Temple, dedicated to the sun god Surya. Designed as a chariot with intricate stone carvings depicting mythological stories, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing India's rich architectural heritage.
Or instead, we can take another option, visiting the old temples in Bhubaneswar's Old Town area, which offers a captivating journey through history and spirituality. Known as the "Temple City of India," Bhubaneswar boasts a remarkable collection of ancient temples, each showcasing exquisite Kalinga architecture. Highlights include the Lingaraj Temple, a magnificent 11th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Mukteshwar Temple, renowned for its detailed carvings and beautiful torana (arched gateway), and the Parasurameswara Temple, one of the oldest in the city, further enrich the experience. These temples, set amidst serene surroundings, offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Dinner and night in our hotel.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Mayfair Lagoon or Trident Hilton or similar

* Recommended flight to Delhi:
- with Aeroflot airlines, departure from Moscow on September 24 at 19.25 and arrival in Delhi on September 25 at 04.05 am,
- any other flight arriving from any city in Delhi no later than at 7.30 am on September 25.

* Recommended flight to Bhubaneswar:
- with Air India, departure from Delhi on September 25 at 7.00 am and arrival in Bhubaneswar at 9.05 am on September 25, or
- with IndiGo, departure from Delhi on September 25 at 9.55 am and arrival in Bhubaneswar at 12.00 pm on September 25, or
- any other flight arriving from Delhi to Bhubaneswar no later than at 12:00 pm on September 25.


Day 2. September 26, 2025 (Friday). BHUBANESWAR – BALIGUDA (300 km)

Drive to Baliguda region of tattoo faced Kondha villages.
The Kondha are an indigenous tribe in Odisha; dance, and folklore. Historically, the Kutia Kondha practiced human sacrifice, known as "Meriah," to ensure fertility and prosperity, though this ritual has long been abandoned.
Despite modern challenges, they strive to preserve their cultural identity.
In the afternoon visit villages of the tattoo faced Kondha tribes.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Sai International or Lotus Paradise or similar


Day 3. September 27, 2025 (Saturday). BALIGUDA – RAYAGADA (180 km)

Morning visit to the villages of the tattoo faced Kutia Kondh tribes. Later drive to Rayagada.
The Kutia Kondha are known for their distinctive facial tattoos, which are a significant aspect of their cultural identity. These tattoos, called "lenjhia," are typically applied to women during adolescence and consist of intricate patterns and designs. The tattoos serve various purposes, including social status, beauty, and protection from evil spirits. This tradition, deeply rooted in their heritage, is a visual representation of their identity and community belonging.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Sai International or Lotus Paradise or similar


Day 4. September 28, 2025 (Sunday). RAYAGADA (200 km)

Excursion to Puttasing hills to meet the Lanjia Saura tribes.
The Lanjia Saura are an indigenous tribe in Odisha, India, celebrated for their vibrant cultural practices and unique traditions. One of their most remarkable art forms is the wall paintings, known as "Ittal," found on their houses. These paintings are created using natural dyes and depict everyday life, religious rituals, and mythological stories, reflecting the tribe's rich heritage and deep connection to nature. Additionally, both men and women of the Lanjia Saura wear large wooden ear plugs called "phulbadi," which signify social status and cultural identity, adding to their distinctive appearance.
A traditional dance of the Lanjia Saura.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Sai International or Lotus Paradise or similar


Day 5. September 29, 2025 (Monday). RAYAGADA – JEYPORE (250 km)

Drive to Jeypore to visit Dongoriya Kondh villages (subject to local permissions).
The Dongoriya Kondhas are an indigenous tribe residing in the Niyamgiri Hills of Odisha, India. Known for their deep connection to the land and forest, they practice sustainable agriculture and depend on the forest for their livelihood. The Dongoriya Kondhas have a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant festivals, traditional dance, and music. They are also recognized for their distinctive attire, adorned with colorful beads and jewelry. Their strong spiritual bond with the Niyamgiri Hills is central to their identity, as they consider the hills sacred and integral to their way of life.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Balkrishna Palace


Day 6. September 30, 2025 (Tuesday). JEYPORE (150 km)

Visits of Bonda villages (subject to local permissions).
Bonda villages are located in the remote, hilly regions of Odisha, India, primarily in the Malkangiri district. The Bonda people, known for their distinct culture and traditional lifestyle, inhabit these villages. They practice shifting cultivation and rely on forest resources for sustenance. Bonda women are easily recognizable by their vibrant, bead necklaces, brass and silver ornaments, and the distinctive strip of cloth they wear around their waist. Bonda society is known for its unique customs, including the matriarchal social structure and age-old rituals that reflect their deep connection to nature and ancestral heritage.
In the afternoon, visit to Paroja and Gadabba villages.
Paroja villages are located in the tribal regions of Odisha, India, primarily in the Koraput district. The Paroja tribe, known for their vibrant culture and traditional lifestyle, inhabits these villages. Agriculture is the mainstay of their livelihood, supplemented by forest resources. Paroja people are renowned for their colorful attire, intricate beadwork, and traditional jewelry. Their cultural heritage is reflected in their lively festivals, dances, and rituals. Despite facing modern challenges, the Paroja community continues to uphold their traditions and maintain a close-knit, harmonious village life.
Traditional dance of the Gadabba community.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Balkrishna Palace


Day 7. October 1, 2025 (Wednesday). JEYPORE – JAGDALPUR (100 km)

Drive to Jagdalpur and visit local weekly market in Jagdalpur and Chitrakut waterfall.
Participation in Bastar Dussehra celebrations.
Bastar Dusshera is a unique and grand festival celebrated in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India. Unlike the typical Dussehra focused on Lord Rama;letter-spacing:-.3pt'> victory over Ravana, Bastar Dussehra centers around the worship of local deities and the goddess Danteshwari.
Spanning over 75 days, it involves elaborate rituals, traditional dances, and vibrant processions, reflecting the region;letter-spacing:-.25pt'> rich tribal culture and heritage. The festival highlights the deep spiritual connection and unity among the diverse tribal communities of Bastar.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Avinash International


Day 8. October 2, 2025 (Thursday). JAGDALPUR

Today we visit Bison Horn Maria Gond villages and attend the final day of Bastar Dussehra celebrations. We will also stroll to the weekly market nearby Jagdalpur.
The Bison Horn Maria Gonds are a tribal community residing in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India. They are named for their distinctive headgear made from bison horns, which they wear during traditional dances and ceremonies. Known for their rich cultural heritage, they practice shifting cultivation and rely on forest resources for their livelihood. Their vibrant festivals, intricate crafts, and traditional dances, accompanied by drumming and singing, showcase their deep connection to nature and ancestral traditions.
The final day processions of the Bastar Dussehra festival in Chhattisgarh are a spectacular and deeply significant event. The culmination of the 75-day celebration, this day features grand processions that bring together various tribal communities in a display of unity and devotion. Central to the procession is the ceremonial chariot, or "Rath," which carries the idol of the goddess Danteshwari.
The chariot, elaborately decorated and pulled by devotees, makes its way through the streets of Jagdalpur, the heart of Bastar. Accompanied by traditional music, dance performances, and the rhythmic beating of drums, the atmosphere is vibrant and festive. Tribal priests and community leaders participate in rituals to invoke blessings and protection from the goddess. The procession reflects the rich cultural heritage and spiritual fervor of the Bastar region, marking the end of the unique and elaborate Dussehra festival.
Bison horn traditional dance will be organised.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Avinash International


Day 9. October 3, 2025 (Friday). JAGDALPUR – KANKER – RAIPUR (300 km)

Drive to Kanker to visit Jungle Muria Villages nearby.
The Muria are a tribal community residing in the Kanker district of Chhattisgarh, India. They are known for their distinctive cultural practices, including the use of deer antlers as ornaments, which symbolize their connection to nature and traditional beliefs. The Muria practice a form of shifting cultivation and rely on the forest for their livelihood. Their vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and intricate craftsmanship reflect their rich cultural heritage and deep respect for the natural world.
Gothul traditional dance will be organized.
Later drive to Raipur. Overnight at the Hotel.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Courtyard by Marriott


Day 10. October 4, 2025 (Saturday). RAIPUR – SHIVRINARAYAN – RAIPUR (240 km)

Drive to Shivrinarayan, region of last remaining Ramnami tribes. Visit to the villages of the last remaining Ramnami tribes.
The Ramnami Samaj is a Hindu community in Chhattisgarh, India, known for opposing caste discrimination. Founded in the late 19th century, its members show devotion to Lord Rama by tattooing "Ram" on their bodies, including their faces. This practice symbolizes their spiritual commitment and belief in equality. The Ramnami Samaj emphasizes humility, devotion, and a simple, ascetic lifestyle.
Bhajan and Kirtan dance of the Ramnami community will be organized. Return back to Raipur.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Courtyard by Marriott


Day 11. October 5, 2025 (Sunday). RAIPUR – BHORAMDEO (140 km)

Morning drive to Bhoramdeo. Visit old Bhoramdeo temple complex.
Bhoramdeo is an ancient temple complex located in the Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh, India. Often referred to as the "Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh", it dates back to the 7th – 11th centuries and showcases exquisite Nagara-style architecture. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate erotic sculptures and detailed carvings depicting various deities and mythological scenes. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Bhoramdeo serves as both a significant religious site and a testament to the region's rich historical and cultural heritage.
Later visit weekly market and back to the hotel in the afternoon time.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Baiga Ethnic Resort


Day 12. October 6, 2025 (Monday). BHORAMDEO

Morning visit to the villages of the Baiga tribes and afternoon visit of Bejalpur weekly market of the Baiga tribes.
The Baiga are an indigenous tribe from central India, living in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. They practice shifting cultivation and rely on the forest for their livelihood. Known for their rich cultural traditions, distinctive body tattoos, and herbal medicine knowledge, the Baiga maintain a deep connection to nature and strive to preserve their traditional way of life.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Baiga Ethnic Resort


Day 13. October 7, 2025 (Tuesday). BHORAMDEO – RAIPUR – RETURN FLIGHT (140 km)

After breakfast, transfer to thr airport of Raipur for final departure.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: no

* Recommended flight to Delhi:
- with IndiGo departure from Raipur on October 7 at 14.55 pm (or at 21.20 pm) and arrival in Delhi at 16.45 pm (or at 23.05 pm) on October 7, or
- with Air India departure from Raipur on October 7 at 08.55 and arrival in Delhi at 10.45 am October 7,
- with IndiGo departure from Raipur on October 6 at 21.20 pm and arrival in Delhi at
23.05 pm on October 6, or
- any other flight departing from Raipur any time on October 7.

* Recommended flight from Delhi:
- with Aeroflot Airlines departure from Delhi on October 7 (or October 8) at 05.00 am and arrival in Moscow on October 7 (or October 8) at 04.05 am
- any other convenient flight departing from Delhi on October 7 and connecting with the flight from Raipur to Delhi.

Cost includes:

- accommodation in the hotels in TWIN sharing rooms (in DBL rooms for family couples) as per itinerary
- three times a day meals along the route
- non-limited drinking water along the entire itinerary
- transport in good condition with working air-conditioning and experienced drivers along the entire itinerary as follows: 12-seater Pullman bus to be used for 8-9 pax, and 7-seater Toyota MUV to be used for 3-4 pax
- pick up from Bhubaneswar airport and and drop off at Raipur airport
- English speaking main guide along the entire itinerary
- Tribal dances as specified
- All necessary permits to visit villages and tribal areas
- All sightseeing as per itinerary
- Entrance fees and tickets for all sites and parks mentioned in the itinerary
- financial support of local communities
- English and Russian speaking team leader amateur ethnographer and photographer



Cost excludes (additionally paid):

- international flight to Bhubaneswar (India) and back from Raipur (India)
- Indian visa
- medical insurance for international trips
- photography fees
- expenses of personal nature
- tips



To take with:

- wear sets fitting weather conditions
- warm and windproof clothes,
- thermal underwear (up to you)
- set of long sleeve clothes and long pants (is a must!)
- mosquito repellents (is a must!)
- anti mosquito net for sleeping place (is a must!)
- swimsuits
- forehead torch (up to you)
- raincoat
- comfortable closed treking footwear, also warm
- sun and wind protection means (cream, sunglasses, sun hat)
- personal hygiene means
- personal medical kit (analgetics, antiseptic, antibiotic, your personal medications)
- anti malaria prevention (up to you to decide)
- backpack or tourist bag or small suitcase for luggage,
- small backpack for radial walks
- photo and video camera

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