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5 Tribal Destinations of India

By Anusha

Travel in its truest form is a learning experience. Travel should mean you get to see what you did not dare imagine, where people find you as unique as you find them, a journey of learning, not just about those around you, but yourself! One such travel experience is the journey made at the heart of India, to the various tribal destinations of the country. Life here has not changed much for thousands of years. As the world progressed into a flurry of technology-dependant living, here are the hot-spots of ancient culture, exciting rituals and amazing art. Here are the lands of the tribes of India.

5 Tribal Destinations of India

Some are shy, some warm and friendly, but all remain firmly rooted in their cultural fabric that dates back several hundred years. Their lives are far removed from our urban living and that is exactly why this journey is something you must undertake. To see beyond the obvious, to appreciate the smaller joys of life and live a life far removed from the stress of modern routines. Take a look at the five tribal destinations of India that you must visit!

1. Nagaland
Among the many fascinating travel experiences provided by the northeast states of India is the tribal experience. Nagaland is one of the lesser explored travel destinations of India, sharing a border with Myanmar, the region consists of many tribal villages. It is home to over 16 tribes such as the Naga tribes. The colourful culture, exciting traditions, and most unique way of life that is far removed from the rest of the world is one experience you must not miss! Explore their lifestyle; from clothing and architecture to festivals and cuisine on this interesting journey. Some of these tribes such as the last few surviving head-hunters indeed carry unique stories of life in the region, both past and present. Also, if you do plan to travel to Nagaland, make sure to attend the Hornbill festival that takes place here in the month of December every year, to enjoy cultural activities and folk traditions.

Intricate clothing and accessories as worn by a Naga tribe.
Photo Courtesy: Rajkumar1220

2. Andaman and Nicobar
Andaman has four primitive tribal groups that are speculated to belong to the Negrito group, namely; Great Andamanese, Onges, Jarawas and Sentinelese. These tribal groups are said to have inhabited the islands for several thousand years and have had limited or zero contact with the outside world. Such isolation is found in very few parts of the world and as tourism expands, efforts are taken to protect the tribes. However, you can get a brief glimpse of life that remains ancient in these parts. A trip to Baratang Islands will have you cross the Jarwa Tribe Reserve and might see them along the route. But offering them food, clothing, money or taking their photos is a punishable offence. A tribal experience cannot get more realistic than a trip to Andaman.

Mangrove swamps of the Baratang Islands.
Photo Courtesy: Sankara Subramanian

3. Nilgiris
An interesting tribal destination in south of India is the Nilgiris that is home to the Toda people. Situated on rolling hills of green are small half-barrel shaped huts with low entrances, so low that for an outsider it feels like you have to crawl to get inside. These are the traditional huts of the Toda people and are called Dogles. They are vegetarians and worship the sacred buffalo, all milk procuring activities are considered sacrosanct and choosing the dairyman, who will be in-charge of such activities by itself is a traditional ritual. The tribes are popular for their embroidery work, the creations of shawls in interesting patters and contrasting colours of black, yellow, white and red threads are used for clothing. The region of the Toda community is now part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site.

5 Tribal Destinations of India

A Toda home also called a Dogle.
Photo Courtesy: Pratheepps

4. Odisha
An important tribal destination in India are the rural villages of Odisha. The state is home to a staggering number of tribal groups; over 60! The colourful cultures and traditions of these tribes are now available for the discerning traveller via organised tours from Puri. Community based travel options are also available, provided by GrassRoutes http://www.grassroutesjourneys.com. The trip durations can be rather long depending on distance and villages covered. The journey is an eye-opener in regard to far more than just way of life, the 'adivasis' or tribal are also gifted artists and you can admire many local crafts and handiwork on this journey. Cultural dances, folk music and rituals can also be experienced if you are lucky!

Tribal people of Odisha as wax statues at the museum.
Photo Courtesy: Steve Browne & John Verkleir

5. Chhattisgarh
Across the borders of Odisha is another state that is popular in the country for understanding the tribal community, Chhattisgarh. Most of the population of this state are tribal communities living across its various villages and forest regions. Among the most prominent tribal communities are the Gonds. The Gonds are seen in various other parts of the country such as Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra as well. The community is know for its rather unique way of life and belief systems. They are also gifted artists and you can enjoy their artwork or cultural performances when you travel here. The community is also among the few such in India that promotes healthy interaction between young men and women of the group prior to marriage.

Chattisgarh tribals performing folk music and dance.
Photo Courtesy: Rajkumar1220

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