Raghurajpur - Odisha's first heritage village

Raghurajpur is a living canvas where artistry and heritage intertwine in the most enchanting way. Tucked away in Odisha near Puri, this village is famed as India’s first Heritage Crafts Village, and every home here doubles as an art studio.

Artistic Treasures
- Pattachitra Paintings: Intricate scroll art depicting mythological tales, folklore, and daily life, painted with natural dyes on cloth or palm leaves.
- Tala Patra Chitra: Ancient palm leaf engravings etched with precision, showcasing stories from Indian epics.
- Papier-Mâché & Cow Dung Toys: Eco-friendly crafts that reflect both creativity and sustainability.
- Wood Carvings & Mask Making: Bold, expressive forms used in dance and rituals.

Cultural Pulse
- Gotipua Dance: Young boys dressed as female characters perform this precursor to Odissi dance, blending grace and storytelling.
- Festivals: The village comes alive during events like the Rath Yatra and International Art & Craft Festival.

Sustainability & Community
- Solar panels, vermi-composting, and rainwater harvesting are part of daily life.
- Community-based organizations support artisan livelihoods and market training.

Local Flavors
Savor traditional Odia dishes like Dalma, Pakhala, Macha Besara, and the beloved dessert Chhena Poda.

Best Time to Visit
Best visited between October and February for pleasant weather and vibrant cultural experiences.

Getting There
By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (approx. 45 km away).

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Raghurajpur is Sakhigopal, which is about 5 kilometres away, and Puri Railway Station, approximately 10 kilometres away. Both stations are well-connected to major cities in India. Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the village.

By Road: Raghurajpur is easily accessible by road from Bhubaneswar, which is around 45 kilometres away, and Puri, which is about 10 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from these cities to reach the village. The road network in the region is well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable journey.