Untamed Trails of India – Tribal Cultures, Sacred Temples & Wildlife Safaris
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Duration 18 nights / 19 days
About This Tour
Discover India's extraordinary diversity on this immersive journey through its vibrant cultural landscapes, sacred heritage, tribal heartlands, and untamed wilderness. Beginning in the colonial city of Kolkata, travel through the magnificent temple towns of Odisha before venturing into the remote tribal regions of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, where centuries-old traditions continue to flourish. Witness colorful indigenous markets, interact with local communities, admire traditional handicrafts, and explore spectacular waterfalls and hidden forest villages. Continue to the legendary Kanha National Park, one of India's finest tiger reserves, where exciting jeep safaris offer opportunities to encounter Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, gaur, and abundant birdlife. Conclude your adventure in the dynamic city of Mumbai, where colonial architecture, vibrant waterfronts, and modern India come together. Combining cultural heritage, wildlife, tribal traditions, spirituality, and authentic local experiences, this carefully curated itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of India's remarkable diversity and timeless charm.
Tour Plan
Arrive at Kolkata International Airport, where you will be greeted with a traditional Indian welcome. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and time to relax after your journey. Overnight stay in Kolkata.
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day tour of Kolkata’s highlights. Begin at the vibrant Flower Market before crossing the iconic Howrah Bridge. Visit Belur Math, Dakshineswar Temple, and the serene Mother House of Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity. Later, explore the Birla Planetarium and Millennium Park, before returning to your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Kolkata.
Step back into the British Raj with a heritage walk through Dalhousie Square, home to colonial-era landmarks such as St. John’s Church, the Writers’ Building, and the Town Hall. Continue to the magnificent Victoria Memorial, then drive past Fort William. End the day with a visit to the revered Kalighat Temple. Overnight stay in Kolkata.
Fly to Bhubaneswar and check into your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a temple trail, visiting Parasurameswara, Mukteswara, Rajarani, and Lingaraj Temples, each a masterpiece of Odisha’s temple architecture. Stroll along the lively Janpath Road before returning for dinner and overnight stay in Bhubaneswar.
After breakfast, drive to Konark to admire the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sun Temple, a colossal stone chariot frozen in time. Continue to Puri, where you will visit the sacred Jagannath Temple and wander through its colorful local markets. Overnight stay in Puri.
Spend the day exploring Chilka Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Enjoy a boat ride to spot playful dolphins and experience the peaceful beauty of this unique ecosystem. Return to Puri, stopping at a fishermen’s village for an insight into their traditional way of life. Overnight stay in Puri.
Drive back to Bhubaneswar for your flight to Vishakhapatnam. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening by the beach. Overnight stay in Vishakhapatnam.
Drive through the scenic Eastern Ghats, stopping at the spectacular Borra Caves with their stalactite formations. Continue to the lush Araku Valley, famous for its tea gardens, and then onward to Jeypore. Overnight stay in Jeypore.
Visit the Bonda tribal market in the morning before driving to Jagdalpur, stopping en route at Kotpad, a weaving village known for its natural dyes. After lunch at a heritage farm, explore a Bastar tribal emporium and walk through a village for a first-hand experience of local life. Overnight stay at Bastar Jungle Resort.
Spend the morning exploring the Anthropological Museum and the breathtaking Chitrakote Waterfalls, often called the "Niagara of India." After lunch, visit the Horn Maria tribe and their lively market at Tokapal. Overnight stay in Jagdalpur.
Journey to Kanker, stopping at Kondagaon and Kurmharpara tribal villages, known for terracotta and bell-metal crafts. Arrive at Kanker Palace and enjoy its heritage ambiance. Overnight stay at Kanker Palace.
Discover the traditions of the Deer-Horn Muria tribe and their Gotul system — a unique community gathering. Enjoy a taste of tribal food and drink before returning to relax at Kanker Palace. Overnight stay in Kanker.
Drive to Bhoramdeo, a hidden gem often called the "Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh." Explore its exquisite temple complex surrounded by forests before settling in at your jungle retreat. Overnight stay in Bhoramdeo.
Accompanied by a tribal guide, visit haats (local markets), trek through forest villages, and interact with the Baiga and Gond tribes to learn about their age-old traditions. Overnight stay at Bhoramdeo Jungle Retreat.
Drive to Kanha National Park, one of India’s premier tiger reserves. After lunch, head into the forest for an afternoon jeep safari, keeping watch for tigers, barasingha, and exotic birdlife. Overnight stay at Kanha lodge.
Enjoy morning and afternoon safaris in Kanha National Park. Between game drives, relax at your lodge, soaking in the wilderness of central India. Overnight stay at Kanha lodge.
After an optional morning safari, drive to Nagpur for your flight to Mumbai. Transfer to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
Explore Mumbai with a city tour including the Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, and a stroll along Chowpatty Beach. The evening is free for shopping or relaxation. Overnight stay in Mumbai.
After breakfast, transfer to Mumbai International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of India’s cultural, tribal, and natural wonders. Safe travels!
