Explore the Untold Royal Saga of Rural Odisha at Kila Dalijoda
A Luxury Heritage Stay in Odisha
Kila Dalijoda was built as an exclusive hunting palace for family members by the late Raja Jyoti Prasad Singh Deo. The property harbours 1900 years of royal heritage of the Panchakote Raj dynasty of Eastern India that has documented lineage dating as far back as 81 CE.
Situated near Cuttack, enveloped by scenic hills and the serene Dalijoda forests of Kapilasa Elephant Sanctuary, you’ll feel warmly welcomed at the hotel reception. Today, the restored mansion operates as a bed-and-breakfast homestay hosted by owners who are royal descendants, offering you the chance to enjoy the charm of Odisha.
Unique Activities
Visit Odisha’s Ancient Art and Artisan Communities
Explore Odisha’s age-old handicrafts and textiles manufacturing practised by local artisans. Nuapatna and Maniabandha have been home to Odisha's consummate weavers for aeons. Witness how local textile weaving shops produce the finest traditional silk and handlooms.
Visit Cuttack, the 'Silver City of India'; witness Chandi Tarakasi or silver filigree, executed by a skilled master craftsman, intricately assembling statement ethnic silver pieces. The craft made its way to Odisha during the Mughal rule.
Uncover ancient techniques used by the blacksmiths of Bhatimunda to produce brassware. See Dhokra sculptures come alive – the traditional craft of lost-wax casting technique practised in India for over 4000 years. The oldest known Dhokra is the 'dancing girl' from Indus Valley Civilisation.
Go Carp Fishing
Kila Dalijoda is the ideal haven for angling or sportfishing enthusiasts. The Mahandi Riverine, 13 kilometres from the property, offers some opportune habitats for exotic Indian carp fishing. Enjoy catching rohu, catla, mrigala, calbasu, common and grass carps, featherbacks and razorfish.
You can catch snakeheads, wallago attu, catfish and yarrelli here or arrange a separate itinerary for catching barramundi fish. Gillies are available for guidance on all your expeditions; angling baits are provided on request.
Pedal into Enchanting Neighbourhoods
The winding country lanes around Kila Dalijoda make cycling an unforgettable experience. Walk through the trails that test your taste for adventure – the mix of rugged and mild terrains amidst teak forests and wetlands makes for a surreal adventure.
Explore local pastoral panoramas – lush paddies, freshwater ponds, wandering flocks of quails and geese, and villagers going about their business. You can opt for a separate guided cycle tour to the nearby tribal villages.
Lodging
Stay in a Heritage Cottage
The two-storied colonial building exudes the charm of red laterite, European chateaux-inspired arch windows and stained-glass doors. The property houses lovely period furniture, sepia photographs of princes and heirloom pieces.
The manor, known locally as Rajabati, has a dedicated temple for the family deity — Maa Baglamukhi, a goshala, grounds with ponds and vegetable gardens. High walls enclose the hotel, with two huge adjacent water reservoirs offering a perfect ambience for sundowner or bonfire sessions.
The Heritage Suites and Roof Top Cottages retain timeless vintage charm, with lofty ceilings, large windows, artefacts and four-poster beds. Rustic vetiver root curtains keep the rooms cool. The anteroom with a coffee table lets you put your feet up with scenic views.
Dining
Savour Authentic Food
Kila Dalijoda prepares appetising farm-to-table feasts, serving local and traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian recipes. Mutton curry, mushroom rice, refreshing masala tea and coconut samosas are definite must-tries here. You can curate your meals or learn exquisite Indian cooking for a nominal fee.
The kitchen cooks homegrown produce – organic vegetables, fresh fish from the ponds and milk products from the goshala. Everyone here dines together in family style.
Free-range quail and quail eggs are used as substitutes for chicken here. According to local customs, the presiding deity of the hunting sojourn – Baglamukhi — forbids chicken consumption.
Meet the People
Kila Dalijoda survived three decades of desertion before hosts Debjit Singh Deo and Namrata renovated it. Debjit, a brilliant practising painter, is an ardent wildlife lover. Namrata is a culinary expert and avid bibliophile interested in Hindu mythology.
Debjit and Namrata along with their daughter Shrividya welcome you warmly and share Pramar Rajput's history and anecdotes on local culture. The pet-friendly property also has in-house dogs – Cookie and Coffee.
Sustainability Story
Kila Dalijoda practises sustainable tourism by using eco-friendly local resources, ensuring minimal damage to its neighbourhoods and promoting local cultural immersion.
From cooked wholesome meals in a biogas kitchen using homegrown produce to nature, religious and tribal expeditions, Kila Dalijoda offers a sanctuary with access to rural Odisha's history, wildlife and warmth.
Kila Dalijoda embraces sustainability with organic farming and eco-friendly practices. They prioritise conservation, offering you an immersive experience in nature while minimising environmental impact.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at Kila Dalijoda
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