Odisha Up Close

Odisha Up Close

13 Days / 12 Nights

On the north east coast of India lies Odisha- a state of golden sand beaches, ancient temples and tribal people whose lifestyle today is little changed from centuries ago.

This programme visits some of these tribes as well as the UNESCO World Heritage listed Sun temple at Konark. Please note: as tribal markets only run on specific Days, we urge you not to book your international flights until an itinerary has been agreed upon, in order to ensure the best use of your time and the most economical trip possible. Also please note in this region an accompanying guide is essential as access to villages is impossible without such a person. The itinerary outlined here is only a sample of what is possible in this fascinating region. We recommend adding time in neighbouring Chhattisgarh if time permits.

Detailed Itineary

  • Day 1 : Arrive in Mumbai

    You’ll be met on arrival in Mumbai and assisted with the transfer to your hotel, Overnight in Mumbai.

  • Day 2 : Mumbai

    Day of Sightseeing around Mumbai, tailored to your interests; it can include a walking tour of Dharavi, India’s largest slum, a car-based tour of Mumbai’s main sights or an excursion to the ancient rock-cut caves at Elephanta Island. Overnight in Mumbai.

  • Day 3 : Mumbai - Bhubaneswar - Puri

    Transfer to Mumbai airport and fly direct to Bhubaneswar. Here you’ll meet your guide and make the short drive down to Puri, touring this important pilgrimage town in the afternoon.Overnight in Puri.

  • Day 4 : Puri Day Excursion

    Full day Excursion to the Sun Temple Complex at Konark, Overnight in Puri.

  • Day 5 : Puri - Bhubaneswar

    Return to Bhubaneswar, en route visiting Dhauli, Asokan Rock edicts and 64 Yogini Temples of Heera Pur. Go for a City tour around Bhubaneswar and return to hotel. Overnight in Bhubaneswar.

  • Day 6 : Bhubaneswar Day Excursion

    Full day Excursion to the Buddhist Triangle of Orissa; Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udaigiri, Overnight Bhubaneswar.

  • Day 7 : Bhubaneswar Day Excursion

    Full day Excursion to Nuapatana Textile Village and Sadeibarini metalworking Village to see the work of the local craftspeople at first hand, Overnight in Bhubaneswar.

  • Day 8 : Bhubaneswar - Gopalpur

    Drive via Chilika Lake (almost an inland sea it is so vast) to Gopalpur-On-Sea on the Bay of Bengal and relax by the ocean in this tranquil location, Overnight in Gopalpur-on-Sea.

  • Day 9 : Gopalpur - Royagada

    Drive to Rayagada en route visiting Desia Kondh Tribal Villages and Sulphur Spring of Taptapani, Overnight at Rayagada.

  • Day 10 : Royagada - Kutia - Royagada

    Full day excursion to Kutia Kondh tribal villages in the Tumudibandh area and witness village life, Overnight at Rayagada.

  • Day 11 : Similiguda

    Visit Dongariya Kondh Tribal market (this market operates on Wednesday only at Chatikona, drive to Jeypore,Overnight at Similiguda.

  • Day 12 : Visakhapatnam

    Visit the Most Colourful tribe of Orissa, the Bonda people, at their Market (this Market operates on Thursday only) and visit a Gadaba Village, continue to Visakhapatnam, Overnight at Visakhapatnam.

  • Day 13 : Visakhapatnam Depart

    Visit Simachalam Temple then transfer to Visakhapatnam airport for departure.

FAQ

Odisha offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, including the architectural marvels of Bhubaneswar, the iconic Konark Sun Temple, and the spiritual Puri Jagannath Temple. Tribal villages and handicraft hubs provide a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the state.

Bhubaneswar is home to over 700 ancient temples, showcasing exquisite Kalinga-style architecture. Key sites include the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, and the ASI Museum, making it a hub for heritage enthusiasts.

Konark Sun Temple. It is renowned for its 13th-century chariot design, representing the Sun God’s chariot. Intricate stone carvings depict mythology and daily life, making it a must-see historical site in Odisha.

Puri Jagannath Temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of devotees annually. Its famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is a grand spiritual event celebrating Lord Jagannath.

The Golden Triangle of Odisha connects Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark, offering a combination of spiritual, architectural, and natural attractions, perfect for a short cultural trip.

Yes, Odisha boasts serene beaches like Puri Beach, Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark, and Gopalpur-On-Sea, ideal for relaxation and oceanic vistas.

Odisha is a treasure trove for spiritual travellers with pilgrimage sites like Puri and Bhubaneswar. Its cultural richness, seen in art, dance, and architecture, makes it ideal for heritage tours.

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