Orissa Up Close

Today early morning proceed to visit Elephanta Caves (closed on Mondays) which is accessible by a ferry ride from the Gateway of India, these ancient rock-cut caves are adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings and it would take half a day to visit this place. Afternoon if you are interested, you can do the Mumbai city tour. Mumbai is also known as the "City of Dreams," & it provides a unique blend of vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, busy markets, and a rich history. According to the availability of time, visit to Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) - A UNESCO World Heritage site, Prince of Wales Museum, Mani Bhawan-Gandhi Museum and evening take a walk at ‘Marine Drive’- also known as ‘Queens Necklace’.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Today morning you will be transferred to Mumbai airport to catch your flight to Bhubaneshwar. On arrival in Bhubaneshwar, you will be met and transferred Puri- a very significant pilgrimage place on the coast. On the way to Puri, you can visit Dhauli- an important Buddhist site which is a home to a rock edict of Emperor Ashoka, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Then drive to Pipili- a small town which is famous for its vibrant and intricate appliqué work, known locally as "Chandua."  This traditional art form is used to decorate canopies, umbrellas, wall hangings, and various decorative items.

Then continue on your drive to Puri, on arrival in Puri, check in at your hotel and then if time permits visit Puri Jagannath temple which belongs to the 12th century- one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for the Hindus and it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra (Chariot festival) which attracts millions of devotees. Kindly note, Non- Hindus are not allowed to enter into the temple, but you can walk around the surroundings of the temple and get a good view of the temple from outside.

If you don’t get time to visit this temple, visit Puri beach & relax and you can plan to visit this temple tomorrow evening.

Overnight stay in Puri.

Note: We strongly recommend you to hire an Accompanying English Speaking Guide service for the entire trip of Odisha, as the drivers in this region speak a very little English or no English.

Today morning drive to Konark which is renowned for its magnificent Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is more than 700 years old and one of the most beautiful temples of India. It is a masterpiece of impressive Kalinga architecture with intricate stone carvings which depict mythological stories & daily life scenes and it is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya.

Later drive back to Puri, check in at your hotel and relax for a while. If you are able unable to see Jagannath temple yesterday, then today you can visit the same (non-Hindus are not allowed to enter into the temple), then according to the availability of time you can visit Crafts Museum and explore vibrant markets.

Overnight stay in Puri.

After breakfast drive to Bhubaneshwar, enroute visit to 64 Yogini temples of Hirapur. They are also called as ‘Chausath Yogini Temples’ and a captivating set of ancient temples dedicated to the Yoginis, mystical female deities associated with Tantra and Yogic practices. On arrival in Bhubaneshwar, check in at your hotel and then explore Bhubaneshwar.

Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha which is renowned for its rich history, ancient temples, and vibrant cultural heritage. You can visit Lingaraj temple- an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Rajarani temple & Mukteshwar temple.

Overnight stay in Bhubaneshwar.

oday take a full day excursion to the Buddhist Triangle of Orissa- Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udaygiri. These spots are located in close proximity to each other and collectively represent an important hub of Buddhist heritage in the state. They are remarkable for their historical, architectural, and cultural importance in the spread and development of Buddhism in the Eastern India. These sites were active centres of Buddhist monasticism, education, and art during ancient times.

Later drive back to Bhubaneshwar and relax.

Overnight stay in Bhubaneshwar.

Today morning take another day excursion to two craft villages- Nuapatana and Sadeibarini. Nuapatana village is famous for textiles with intricate handloom weaving traditions and vibrant textile artistry. The village is known for producing exquisite textiles using a variety of materials, including cotton and silk. Sadeibareni village is renowned for its Dokra art, a traditional metal casting craft practiced by the local artisans. Artisans in Sadeibareni create a variety of Dokra artworks, including figurines, sculptures, jewellery, and utility items.

Drive back to Bhubaneshwar and relax.

Overnight stay in Bhubaneshwar.

Today start early drive to Chilika - exploring Chilika Lake offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those interested in experiencing the unique ecosystem of a brackish water lagoon. Satapada is a popular starting point for boat rides on Chilika Lake and also famous for dolphin watching.

Chilika Lake is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, and a boat ride offers a chance to spot these gentle creatures frolicking in the water.

After spending some time at Chilika, drive to Gopalpur and relax.

Overnight stay in Gopalpur.

Today start your drive to Desia Kondh Tribal village & Sulphur spring of Taptapani. Desia Kondh Tribal village is known for their unique cultural practices and traditional way of life.

Taptapani is famous for its natural sulphur hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. On arrival at Rayagada, check in at your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay at Rayagada.

A day excursion to visit the Kutia Kondh tribal villages in the Tumudibandh area and witness village life. Visit this weekly Tribal market only on Tuesdays. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the traditional way of life, cultural practices, and customs of this indigenous community and the vibrant weekly market. Learn about their cultural beliefs related to tattoos, which signify clan identity and are believed to aid recognition by ancestors in the afterlife.

Overnight stay in Rayagada.

Note: During the Tribal market visits, engage with community members through guided discussions and translations by your local guide. Respect local customs, seek permission before taking photographs, and participate respectfully in cultural activities.

Today early morning start your drive to visit Dongriya Kondh Tribal market (this market operates on Wednesday only) at Chatikona. Dongriya Kondh markets are known for their vibrant displays of local produce, agricultural products, handicrafts, and traditional items. You can observe how Dongariya Kondh men and women decorate themselves in similar styles, distinguished mainly by the number of nose rings worn (two for men and three for women). Later drive to Jeypore and relax.

Overnight stay in Jeypore (or at Similiguda).

Today visit the most colourful tribes of Odisha, the Bonda tribe, visit the market (this weekly market is open only on Thursdays) where you may also meet the Gadhaba and Didayee groups. Bondas, literally translated as "people of the Hills," Bondas seek to live in seclusion and maintain their own customs & traits within their community. They are the most graceful tribal ladies in Orissa and the surrounding states & are distinguished by their headgear and bright beaded costumes. Then drive to Vishakhapatnam, check in at your hotel and relax.

  Overnight stay in Visakhapatnam

Today morning you will be transferred to Vizag airport to catch your domestic/international flight.

Note: If you would like to explore Vizag, you can add another night in Vizag.

Tour Ends