Spectacular from the word go, Orissa is home to some of the most stunning architecture in India. From the Sun temple of Konark, also known as the Black Pagoda, to the Jagannath temple in Puri, Orissa is a part of India that seriously demands a visit. Its awesome scenic beauty apart, Orissa is also a living symbol of India's rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its magnificent temple sculptures. Of the various classical dance forms in practice in the State many owe their postures, expressions and lyrical quality to the carved figures adorning Orissa's temples. The state's arts and crafts are proud of their historical link going back to 2000 years.
DAY 1: DELHI - BHUBANESHWAR
On arrival in Bhubaneshwar you will be met and assisted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Orissa, also served as the capital of the Kalinga empire. Bhubaneshwar's architecture retains every bit of it's glorious past. In the afternoon, you will tour the city starting with the Parasurameswara, Muktesvara, Raja Rani and the Lingaraja temples. In the evening enjoy an Odissi dance recital at the Rabindra Mandap. Overnight in Bhubaneshwar.
DAY 2: BHUBANESHWAR - PURI
In the morning, drive to the Udayagir and Khandagiri caves - 6 kms from Bhubaneshwar. The caves, situated on two low hills, bear testimony to their Jain and Buddhist past dating back to the second century BC. Post-lunch proceed to Puri, en route stopping at the village of Raghurajpur. This village is known for its paintings of temple deities and murals and manuscripts on paper and palm leaves. You can watch the artists at work in their homes. Arrive Puri late in the afternoon. Check-in to a beach resort where you can spend a relaxed evening. Overnight in Puri.
DAY 3: PURI - KONARK - PURI
After a relaxed breakfast drive to Konark, an hour's drive from Puri. Konark, a World Heritage site, was known as "The Black Pagoda" by European sailors to set it apart from the white-washed Jagannath Temple in Puri. Despite the telling signs of time, the magnificent temple remains impressive, symbolizing Orissan art and craftsmanship at its very best. Considered a masterpiece in stone, the Sun Temple exemplifies the greatest achievement for the Kalinga school of architecture. This temple is built in the shape of a chariot with twelve pairs of splendidly sculptured mammoth wheels on seven ornately caparisoned horses. Return to Puri by afternoon. Visit Jagannath Temple which is located in the heart of the town, later in the day. Take a stroll along the beach in the evening and explore the colorful night markets. Overnight in Puri.
DAY 4: PURI - BHUBANESHWAR
Spend the morning on the beach and after an early lunch drive back to Bhubaneshwar. En route, visit Pipli village, famous for its bright and colourful appliqué work, on display all along the road. Eight kms short of Bhubaneshwar lies Dhauli - the spot where, overcome by the horrors of the Kalinga war, Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism. The two Kalinga rock edicts at the bottom of the hill date back to 260 BC. On top of the hill is the Peace Pagoda or the Shanti Stupa built in the 1970s by the Japanese. The spot offers a brilliant view of the sun set against the backdrop of paddy fields and coconut palms. Overnight in Bhubaneshwar.
DAY 5: BHUBANESHWAR - DELHI
Take an early morning drive to Nandan Kanan (20 kms), a zoo and botanical garden set amid dense forests. The zoo's residents include tigers, lions, rhinos, panthers, leopards and a variety of wild fowl and reptiles. It has also successfully bred black panthers and gharials in captivity. Return to Bhubaneshwar for your onward flight.
TOUR ENDS
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