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Enchanting Odisha: From Sacred Sites to Scenic Shores

0/5
Duration

5 Nights / 6 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with “Enchanting Odisha: From Sacred Sites to Scenic Shores,” a tour that unveils the mystical charm of this eastern Indian state. Begin in Bhubaneswar, exploring its ancient temples like Lingaraja, Mukteshwara, and Parashurameshwara, and delve into the historical significance of Dhauli’s Peace Pagoda. Discover the rich heritage of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udaigiri before immersing in the lush landscapes of Bhitarakanika National Park, home to rare wildlife and mangrove forests. Experience the vibrant culture of Puri with visits to the Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple, and enjoy the serene beauty of Chilika Lake. Conclude with a relaxing beachside retreat in Puri before heading back to Bhubaneswar.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 45.3%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.0%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 55.1%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 54.5%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 57.8%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 57.0%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 61.2%

Itinerary

Day 1: Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Bhubaneswar airport, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Visit Lingaraja Temple, an 11th-century Hindu temple known for its towering spire and elaborate carvings, depicting a perfect blend of art and architecture, making it one of the finest examples of Hindu temple architecture. Explore Mukteshwara Temple, built in the 7th-8th century AD, renowned for its intricate carvings and detailed sculptures that reflect the convergence of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain styles, particularly notable for its ornate roof carvings. Visit Parashurameshwara Temple, a small but richly decorated 7th-century shrine dedicated to Shiva, featuring elaborate carvings and representing the early Orissan style of temple architecture. See Dhauli, the site where Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism after the Kalinga War; visit the Peace Pagoda, a serene Japanese stupa symbolizing peace, and the ancient rock edicts from 260 BC, which outline Ashoka’s directives on ethical governance. Explore Udaigiri & Khandgiri caves, the largest Buddhist complex in Orissa, showcasing Jain and Buddhist art from the 2nd Century BC with rock-cut monasteries, Chaitya halls, and Stupas carved into the hills, reflecting a vibrant cultural past. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar - Bhitaraknika (160kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bhitarakanika National Park, en route visit Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udaigiri, known for their ancient Jain and Buddhist monasteries. Explore Lalitgiri, the earliest Buddhist site in Orissa, featuring extensive ruins of a large brick monastery, chaitya halls, and a restored stone stupa atop a rugged sandstone hill, offering a glimpse into early Buddhist architecture. Visit Ratnagiri, renowned for its significant Buddhist sculptures and ruins dating back to the 6th Century AD, revealing the influence of Buddhism in the region, especially during the Gupta Dynasty, with excavations uncovering large monasteries and sculptures. Continue to Bhitarakanika, check in at the hotel, and enjoy dinner. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Bhitaraknika - Puri (240kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich mangrove forests, salt-tolerant plant species, and rare wildlife, including the estuarine crocodile and Olive Ridley turtles. The sanctuary boasts diverse flora and fauna, with the mangrove trees making it the second largest mangrove forest in India. Enjoy a boat safari through the sanctuary’s intricate network of rivers and creeks, observing various bird species such as Asian Open Bill and Black Ibis, and spot estuarine crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. Visit Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary, which features a watchtower offering panoramic views of the sanctuary's birdlife, including pelicans and storks. Drive to Puri, check in at the hotel, and relax. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Puri

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece constructed as a giant chariot with 24 intricately carved wheels, dedicated to the Sun God. The temple, built from oxidizing sandstone, is renowned for its symbolic carvings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Pipili, a village known for its vibrant applique work, where artisans create colorful and elaborate cloth decorations, showcasing traditional craftsmanship. Visit Raghurajpur artisan village, famous for its Pattachitra paintings and craftwork, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of Odisha. Visit Ramchandi Temple, situated along the river, known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic setting. Relax at Chandrabhaga Beach, known for its clean sands and stunning sunsets, offering a tranquil retreat. Visit Jagannath Temple (non-Hindus are restricted from the main sanctum), a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath, famous for its grand annual Rath Yatra. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Puri

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Chilika Lake, the second largest brackish water lagoon in the world, renowned for its rich biodiversity and as a crucial wintering ground for migratory birds. The lake supports a variety of threatened species and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Enjoy a boat ride on Chilika Lake, observing a variety of migratory birds, and take in the serene and scenic beauty of the lagoon. Return to Puri and enjoy free time for personal activities, shopping, or relaxation at the beach. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Puri - Bhubaneshwar (65km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bhubaneswar airport for your flight to the onward destination.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 5 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • Boat ride on Chilika Lake.
  • Boat safari in Bhitarkanika Mangrove Forest with naturalist.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Bhubaneswar x 1 night: Fortune Park Sishmo/ Lemon Tree Premier
Bhitarkanika x 1 night: Sand Pebbles Bhitarkanika Jungle Resorts/ Nature Camp Bhitarkanika Retreat
Puri x 3 nights: MAYFAIR Heritage/ Mayfair Waves

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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