Dhenkanal

Away from India’s well-trodden tourist routes, Dhenkanal offers a compelling glimpse into Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions. Set amid wooded hills, fertile countryside and quiet villages, this lesser-known region invites travellers to discover a more intimate side of eastern India.

The area is renowned for its distinctive crafts, particularly the ancient lost-wax metal-casting tradition of Dhokra, practiced by skilled artisans whose knowledge has been passed down through generations. Nearby, the sacred center of Joranda offers an insight into the Mahima Dharma movement, with its distinctive monastic traditions and striking religious architecture.