Ancient Orissa

13 Days  • Kolkata - Hyderabad  

Immerse yourself in old-world India. Experince ways of life that have continued unbroken, and relatively unchanged for centuries. Begin in India's cultural capital Kolkata, witness layers of history from ritual worship to colonial India. Discover East India's earliest temples, cruise along Asia's largest lagoon and traverse rustic open countryside. Join festive weekly markets where indigenous cultures converge. Interact with tribal peoples imbued with centuries of independent traditions and learn the secret behind their smiles. Conclude your journey in cosmopolitan Hyderabad where cultures merge to create legend.

itinerary:

Days 1 -2  Kolkata

The intellectual and cultural capital of India, vibrant and quirky Kolkata bursts with life; explore the cities proud colonial heritage by tram, drop into esteemed art galleries, wander through traditional Bengali markets and take in the breathtaking view from Kolkata’s famous Hoogly Bridge.

Day 3  Bhubaneswsar

The lively capital of Orissa since the anceint 'Kalinga' empire boasts settlement stretching back 2000 years. Explore medieval temples and broad tree lined avenues to unearth the spirit of the city. Bhubaneswar's impressive skyline: the towering spire of the Lingaraj temple, the magnificent Japanese Peace Pagoda of Dhauli hills and the remarkable temple of Mahavir Jain on Khandagiri hills exemplifies the arrival and evolution of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainsim during different periods of Orissa's long spiritual journey.

Days 4 - 5  Puri

Behold the famous UNESCO World Heritage site at Konark. Traverse rural villages to reach the coastal temple town of Puri. Meet village craftsmen skilled in the hereditary craft of traditional painting. Soak up the traditional temple culture of Puri. One of India's Char Dham's (four holy spots of India).

Day 6  Rambha via Chilika Lake

Unwind on the tranquil waters of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and another Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Spot rare migratory birds play among their nets. Take in the hilltop panorama of Chilika's vast waters stretching to the sea.

Day 7  Muniguda

Bumble along country roads, pass teak plantations and forested hillocks alongside idyllic villages and local markets. Today we enter tribal territory!

tribes of orissa

Adivasis literally "original inhabitants" are the indigenous population of India. Nestled in the hills of the Eastern Ghats they constitute 25% of Orissa's population; the most populous Adivasi region of all India. They comprise 62 diverse ethnicities and although co-dependent, fiercely guard their own distinct traditions. We will meet the Dharua, Gond, Bonda, Gaddava, Didayi, Paroja, Kutia & Dongria Kondh tribes and witness a way of life relatively unchanged throughout centuries.

Days 8 - 10  Chandoori Sai, Goudaguda Village

Roll through the hilly regions of the Eastern Ghats. Rub shoulders with the largest weekly gathering of indigenous peoples, the vibrant Chatikona market. Join Dongria Kondh girls with their countless hairpins, earrings and nose rings fawn over fancy items. Let the most extraordinary and ordinary confound you at Onukadeli; the weekly market of India’s most primitive indigenous peoples. Be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of beads adorning traditional Bonda tribeswomen. Enjoy a picnic lunch under a waterfall and follow the footsteps of the Gaddava and Paroja tribes.

haats: local weekly markets

A melting pot of indigenous cultures where independent tribes gather and trade local produce once a week. A healthy balance maintained between co-dependency and individual identity is most apparent during these occasions.

Day 11  Visakhapatnam (Vizag)

Check out the diverse wares at Kunduli weekly market; everything from cattle to dried fish and terracotta pots. Not to mention the swarm of onlookers! Behold home brewed alcohol measured and juggled into bottles. Pass forested hills & lush valleys separating Orissa and Andhra Pradesh to the port city of Visakhapatnam. Visit the hilltop 11th century Simachalam temple, explore the city and chill out at the beach.

Day 12  Hyderabad

After an early morning flight explore Hyderabad's iconic Char Minar. Walk the bustling market streets heady with fragrant perfume and a kaleidoscope of colour. Bare witness to the cities heritage at Salar Jung Museum and discover hidden treasures.

Day 13  Depart Hyderabad

You are free to depart or stay on and enjoy the cosmopolitan city. We can provide Additional Accommodation and a Departure Transfer for you, please let us know at the time of booking.

fast facts:

Support: Passionate Local Leader throughout.
Activities: Kolkata City Orientation, Bhubaneshwar Heritage Walking Tour, UNESCO World Heritage Konark Sun Temple Entry, Puri Old City Tour by Cycle Rickshaw, Heritage Painting (Raghurajpur) Chilika Lake Boat Cruise, Tribal weekly market visits (Dongria Kondh, Bonda, Gaddava and Paroja), Simachalam Temple Entry, Hyderabad City Orientation.
Accommodation: 4 Star Hotels (11 nights), 3 Star Lodge (1 night).
Transport: National Flights, Private Vehicle, Boat Cruise and foot.
Meals: All inclusive. Bring your favourite snacks for the road journeys.
Arrival/Departure: Kolkata and Hyderabad both have International Airpport and are well connected to the rest of India by domestic airlines. Both are accessible by the Indian Railway network. See the Travel Essentials for more information.

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