Odisha’s Cultural Heritage and Tribal Authenticity

Breakfast at hotel

In time transfer to airport to board flight to Bhubaneshwar

On arrival in Bhubaneshwar, assistance at the airport and transfer to hotel

Afternoon proceed to visit the ancient Jain caves of Khandagiri-Udayagiri, which were carved and tunneled, to create this multi-storied ancient apartment residence for Jain monks. They were the work of the first known Odishan rule, King Kharavela, and probably begun in the first century BC. Kharavela was a king of the Mahameghavahana dynasty, who is known for expansion of the Kalinga empire and his installation of public improvements, such as canal systems. His queen was evidently quite a patron of the arts, and probably had much to do with the impressive sculptural decoration of the caves.

Evening return back to Bhubaneshwar and overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Morning proceed with the visit to Chausathi Yogini temple at Hirapur with countryside walk. Driving through the beautiful scenery of Bhubaneswar’s rural side, comes a beautiful and ancient temple- Chausathi Yogini. The temple mesmerizes us with its intricate sculptures and carvings. Believed to have been built in the 9th century, Chausathi Yogini Temple is dedicated to the 64 manifestations of Goddess Shakti who symbolizes female energy. The aura of the temple premises, even today, does take one in a mysterious ride to the time when Tantrik practise was strong and intense along its walls.

Later proceed for a heritage trail of the ancient temples in the Old Town of Bhubaneswar including the famous Lingaraj Temple and Mukteshwar Temple, explore the temple city where you see incredible architecture and connect with the locals for an immersive experience on their local lifestyles.

Afternoon visit the Tribal Museum (Closed on Mondays & National holidays) was established in 1953. Today the museum is a major site of tourist interest as it gives an insight into the life of a tribal. On display are immaculate replicas of tribal huts of various tribal communities and artefacts collected from different tribal groups in Odisha, which includes their attire, traditions, ornaments, food habits. The museum also displays replicas of Tribal dwellings and artefacts.

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Morning drive to Daringbadi, the tribal heartland of Odisha en-route visiting typical rural farming villages and the small weaving village of Itamati to see the weaving of traditional local towels daily worn by the community- you will enjoy an interaction and may also participate and learn a technique of this age-old weaving tradition.

Arrive Daringbadi situated at an altitude of 3000 ft, this hill station holds great appeal for those with an appreciative eye for exquisite beauty. Untainted by commercial tourist development, the place is beautified by the pristine valleys as well as pine and coffee gardens. Thick rainforests teem with wild animals. The place is gifted with natural bounties such as pine jungles, coffee gardens and beautiful valleys.

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Morning explore the region of Daringbadi and Baliguda with visit to the local Kutia (Hut) of Kondh tribe community and interaction with villagers and walk up to Dhokra craft community. The Kondh ethnic group are one of the most ancient tribes, direct descendant of the pre-Aryan world, which still faithfully preserves the culture and traditions, and is totally dedicated to rituals and ceremonies.

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Morning drive to Puri with en-route visit to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water estuarine lake sprawls over an area of 1100 sq.km. It’s a haven for bird-watchers / nature lovers. Abounding in unique flora and fauna with migratory birds wading in the shallow waters and the air echoing with the chirping of birds from as far as the Caspian Sea, Aral Sea and other parts of Mongolia. Enjoy an hour country boat ride and interact with the local fishermen community

Later continue drive to Puri and on arrival check-in at hotel

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Morning visit the Jagannath Temple at Puri which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spot for Hinduism. This 12th century temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath “The Lord of the Universe”. The wooden figures of the three deities, Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra stand in the sanctorum garlanded and decorated by the high priests. (Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the Jagannath temple and to be viewed from outside across the street). Later wander away into the narrow lanes of the old Puri roads as you take a thrilling cycle rickshaw ride. Interact with the local temple priest and immerse yourself in the religious fervor of this holy city.

Rest of the day enjoy the day at beach side, known for the fine golden sands. the local fishermen, with their catamarans and wide brimmed cane hats are welcomed by tourists. Later in the day experience local cycle rickshaw ride on the heritage Grand Road.

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel s

Morning same day excursion to Konark Sun Temple and the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur

The Sun Temple at Konark conceived as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heavens by the might of seven splendidly carved horses, standing aloft on 24 chariot wheels-intricately carved – symbolizing the march of time, lies in solitary splendor surrounded by drifting sand and approx kms from the sea, This 13th century architectural marvel is one of the most magnificent monuments of the World and also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Later visit Raghurajpur heritage crafts village, where the whole village community is involved in making some kind of handicraft. Many have even won national awards for their work. There are just over 100 households and 300 artisans in the village. The economic, social and cultural life of this village revolves around arts and crafts with at least one member from almost every family involved in the arts. You can wander around, check out the beautiful painted murals on the houses, chat to the friendly artisans and see them in action!

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at the hotel

Breakfast at hotel

Later in time transfer to Bhubaneshwar airport to board flight to Delhi for your onward journey