Odisha is home to a rich mosaic of tribal communities with unique traditions, customs, and lifestyles. The tribal markets, or “haats,” are an essential part of these communities’ social and economic fabric, offering a glimpse into their culture, handicrafts, and daily lives. Held weekly, these markets provide a space for local trade and serve as a social gathering where people from different tribes come together to exchange goods, news, and traditions. Here are nine must-see weekly tribal markets in Odisha that offer an unforgettable cultural experience.
On Monday:
1. Kakiriguma Weekly Tribal Market – Koraput
Kakiriguma Weekly Tribal Market, located in the Koraput district, is a vibrant market that showcases the rich culture of the Kondh tribe. The market is known for its lively atmosphere, where vendors display a variety of goods, including traditional handicrafts, agricultural products, and local produce. The market also offers a wide range of tribal jewelry, handwoven textiles, and wooden artifacts. Visiting Kakiriguma allows you to interact with the local tribes and experience their way of life.
Don’t Miss: The market is a great place to shop for authentic Kondh tribe jewelry and traditional textiles. Also, be sure to taste local delicacies like “pakhala” (fermented rice) and “chakuli” (rice cake).
On Tuesday:
2. Dukum Weekly Tribal Market of Desia Kondh
Located in the Rayagada district, the Dukum Weekly Tribal Market is one of the most colorful and bustling tribal markets in Odisha. It attracts tribes like the Kondhs, Gadabas, and other local communities. The market is a wonderful mix of tribal crafts, fresh produce, and vibrant textiles. Dukum’s market is also famous for its lively folk dances and traditional music performances, making it an excellent place to witness the cultural heritage of Odisha’s tribal communities.
Don’t Miss: Enjoy the traditional dance performances and shop for local handicrafts such as bamboo baskets and wooden toys. Don’t forget to try some traditional tribal food, often cooked in bamboo tubes or leaf wraps.
3. Kotgarh Weekly Tribal Market of Kutia Kondh (Tatoo Faced)
The Kotgarh Weekly Tribal Market, located in the Kandhamal district, is one of the most unique and picturesque markets in Odisha. Known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, the Kotgarh market is a hub for the indigenous tribes such as the Saora and the Kandha. The market is famous for its vibrant display of local handicrafts, including intricate Saora paintings, wooden carvings, and traditional textiles.
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Don’t Miss: Be sure to explore the colorful tribal artwork, including the famous Saora wall paintings. It’s also a great spot to try locally grown spices and herbs that are part of the region’s culinary traditions.
4. Majhiguda Weekly Tribal Market of Dongaria Kondh
Majhiguda Weekly Tribal Market, situated in the Nabarangpur district, is a perfect representation of the region’s tribal diversity. The market is a lively hub for the local communities, including the Kondhs, Gonds, and other tribes. Visitors can find a wide range of items, from local handicrafts and woven baskets to herbal medicines and agricultural produce. The vibrant exchange of goods and culture makes Majhiguda a must-visit for anyone interested in tribal life.
Don’t Miss: Explore the market’s fresh produce, herbal medicines, and beautiful handwoven baskets. The market is also known for its colorful tribal attire, which is a great souvenir to take home.
On Wednesday:
5. Chatikona Weekly Tribal Market of Dongaria Kondh
Located in the Koraput district, Chatikona Weekly Tribal Market is a bustling hub of tribal culture and commerce. The market draws tribes like the Bonda, Gadaba, and Saora, offering a unique opportunity to witness their lifestyle up close. Here, you can find a wide variety of traditional tribal items, including woven fabrics, pottery, and hand-carved woodwork. The market is also a great place to observe the unique customs and traditions of the Bonda tribe, known for their distinctive attire.
You can check out our Tribal Village Tour in Odisha Packages
Don’t Miss: Interact with the Bonda tribe, who are famous for their traditional, colorful attire, and shop for locally made pottery, jewelry, and other handcrafted goods.
On Thursday:
6. Onukudelli Weekly Tribal Market of Bonda, Gadaba & Didayee
Onukudelli Weekly Tribal Market, located in the Malkangiri district, is one of the most remote and culturally rich tribal markets in Odisha. The market is a gathering point for the Bonda tribe, one of the most isolated tribes in India. The Onukudeli market offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Bonda people, who are known for their distinct customs and attire. Here, visitors can shop for colorful beadwork, handmade jewelry, and other tribal artifacts.
Don’t Miss: Onukudeli is the perfect place to buy unique tribal jewelry, particularly bead necklaces and earrings, crafted by the Bonda women. It’s also an ideal spot for nature lovers, as scenic landscapes surround the market.
On Friday:
7. Kunduli Weekly Tribal Market of Paroja
Kunduli Weekly Tribal Market, located in the Koraput district, is one of the largest and most well-known tribal markets in Odisha. It is home to various indigenous communities, including the Paraja and the Kondh tribes. The market is a melting pot of culture and commerce, offering everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to fresh vegetables and wild fruits. Kunduli is a great place to see the vibrant colors of tribal life, as women in traditional attire come to sell their goods.
You can check out our Odisha and Chhattisgarh Tribal Tour Packages.
Don’t Miss: Don’t miss the chance to shop for traditional clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and local herbs. The market is also a great place to witness the barter system still in practice in some tribal communities.
On Saturday:
8. Baligaon Weekly Tribal Market of Dhuruba
Baligaon Weekly Tribal Market, located in the Ganjam district, is a unique blend of commerce and culture. The market is known for its diverse range of tribal products, including handwoven textiles, pottery, and agricultural produce. The market is a lively mix of local traditions and vibrant colors, offering an authentic tribal experience for visitors. Baligaon is also famous for its seafood, as it is close to the coast.
Don’t Miss: Explore the market’s variety of handwoven textiles and traditional pottery. If you’re a foodie, try the local seafood, which is a specialty of the Ganjam district.
9. Lamtaput Weekly Tribal Market – Koraput
Lamtaput Weekly Tribal Market is another hidden gem in the Koraput district, attracting tribes like the Bonda and Gadaba. This market is known for its lively atmosphere and the diversity of products on display. From colorful fabrics and jewelry to herbal medicines and fresh produce, Lamtaput offers a fascinating insight into the daily lives of Odisha’s tribal communities. The market is a great place to experience the traditional barter system still in practice among some tribes.
Don’t Miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful handwoven textiles and the unique jewelry crafted by local tribes. The market’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore untouched tribal traditions.
Conclusion
Odisha’s weekly tribal markets are an essential part of the state’s cultural landscape. These markets not only provide an opportunity to shop for unique tribal crafts and goods but also offer a chance to witness the vibrant cultures of various indigenous communities. Whether you’re looking to buy authentic handicrafts, interact with tribal people, or simply immerse yourself in the local culture, these nine must-see markets are the perfect way to experience Odisha’s rich tribal heritage.
