2 independent reviews for Holidays to Odisha and Bastar, India
Reviews for Holidays to Odisha and Bastar, India
Alex Harrison review 24 Nov 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Our stay with the kind-hearted Shakheel in Bastar stands out as the highlight of our journey. Receiving the opportunity to live among the Mariya Gond tribe in the Tribal Region felt like an extraordinary privilege. Although we shared no common language, it was completely irrelevant; their profound warmth and selfless hospitality spoke volumes. This incredible generosity was a defining feature of our entire trip, echoed by every family and guide we had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with across Bastar and Odisha. It was an honour, and the connections we made are unforgettable.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Arrive with an open mind. India is a land of vivid juxtaposition, delivering moments of intense light and raw visceral power. You must quickly become immersed in your environment. Sophie and her team have done something magical. While the journey is not for the faint-hearted, approach it with spirit and an eagerness to see everything. I felt perfectly safe and cared for throughout; every detail was accounted for. Sophie’s exceptional experience and connections make this a truly special, exclusive experience unlike anything offered by traditional companies.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Undoubtedly, yes. While conservation in India is a hard task, the unwavering care, passion, and dedication shown by the team towards supporting local people and keeping regional traditions alive was evident at every point. The people of the region are naturally warm and welcoming, but this spirit is actively nurtured by the care fostered by Sophie, the guides, and the residents themselves. Travelling this way made me feel less like a tourist and more like a part of the family. I came away with a genuine affection and commitment to everyone I met, confirming the powerful, positive impact this trip had on the local community.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Unlike every trip I have ever been on - in the best possible way. It really opened my mind to the way I live and world I live in. How the most humble and simplest of things can mean the most and can be the things most worth working hard to save. A truly unforgettable,and beautiful time.Harriet Sanderson review 27 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We loved every part of our trip, but the Bastar region was especially memorable. The villages are so peaceful and lovely to cycle through, the people are so friendly, and the food is amazing. Staying with the Muriya Gond tribe in Gudiya Padar was a highlight - such a unique experience and a real privilege! An adventure that we’ll never forget!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Go with an open mind and a sense of adventure - this isn’t a typical tourist trip, and that’s what makes it so special! Be ready for simple accommodation (mixed in with some luxury places too), and lots of incredible local experiences. Cycling through the villages and connecting with local communities are real highlights, so take your time and soak it all in.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely! It was clear that the trip was designed to benefit local communities. We stayed in village homestays run by local people, had local guides, and shared meals prepared by local families. All our hosts give back in meaningful ways, such as supporting tribal communities to preserve their crafts, funding education and schools, and creating local jobs. The focus on slow, low-impact travel, such as cycling and taking trains, also made it feel environmentally responsible. Many of the homestays respect local customs by using buckets rather than showers, which not only conserves precious water but also honours the way villagers live.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing! One of the best and most unique trips we’ve ever done. Every day felt like an adventure, and we came away with a deep appreciation for the people, landscapes, and culture of these parts of India. It was thoughtful, authentic, and beautifully organised - we couldn’t recommend it enough. Thank you!Holiday Reviews
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