It may be one of India’s poorest states but Orissa is fabulously wealthy when it comes to colour, diversity, a richly differing landscape and a beautiful and witty people. It is these citizens that make Orissa distinctive from the rest of this vast country and, for the more adventurous traveller, its most vibrant and captivating destination.

The state boasts 62 distinct tribal groups - over a quarter of its population - divided between those who live on the coastal plains and those who reside in the interior hills. The latter maintain the stronger cultural and linguistic traditions while those of the plains have adopted the Hindu way.

The result is a wonderfully hybrid culture where song and dance is an essential part of everyday life, cultural traditions are sacrosanct and the ceremonies associated with birth, death and marriage have remained unchanged for generations.

Pettitts has a nine-day trip to Orissa combining its many riches with a real chance to become immersed in the everyday - but never mundane – lives of these fascinating people. The itinerary features off-the-beaten track places and is perhaps best suited to the more seasoned Indian Traveller.

Contact: Steve Pettitt on 01892 515966.