Responsible Travel

When visiting temples in Odisha, footwear must be removed before entering, and modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected out of respect for the site and other worshippers.

Please follow posted restrictions on phones and cameras inside temple sanctums, and be aware that non-Hindus are not permitted inside the Jagannath Temple in Puri, a rule enforced by the temple authorities that we ask all our guests to respect fully.

Odisha's festivals, rituals and daily religious practices are living traditions, not performances for visitors. We ask guests to observe quietly, follow guidance from priests, temple staff or our local guides, and avoid behaviour that could be seen as disruptive or disrespectful.

Odisha is home to many distinct tribal communities with their own customs and ways of life. We do not arrange staged, unpaid encounters presented as authentic experiences, and we ask guests to always seek permission before photographing individuals in tribal villages or markets.

Where you wish to purchase handicrafts, textiles or produce, buying directly from artisans and local sellers supports the community more meaningfully than buying through unrelated intermediaries.

In wildlife areas such as Similipal, Bhitarkanika and Chilika Lake, we ask guests not to feed animals or birds under any circumstances, since this can harm their health and alter natural behaviour.

Please do not carry single-use plastic into these areas, and always maintain a respectful distance from dolphins, crocodiles and other wildlife rather than approaching them closely. Boats should never be used to chase or crowd dolphins or other marine life for a better view or photograph.

We encourage all guests to carry reusable water bottles and bags where possible, and to avoid single-use plastic during travel through coastal, forest and heritage areas, in order to reduce litter and protect these environments for future visitors.

We encourage visits to craft villages such as Raghurajpur, known for Pattachitra painting, and Pipili, known for appliqué work, as well as engagement with Sambalpuri weaving communities, so that your spending directly benefits local artisans.

Please ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in villages, markets and religious settings, and respect a refusal without argument. Some temple areas restrict photography altogether, and these restrictions should always be followed.

At heritage sites such as Konark Sun Temple and Lingaraj Temple, please do not touch, climb on, or lean against stone carvings and structures, since repeated contact over time contributes to wear and damage to irreplaceable heritage.