Cultural Orissa, Nature Tour of Orissa, Bhitarkanika Tour, Orissa Ecotourism, Local Crafts of Orissa, Visit Heritage Orissa, Dhenkanal Palace, Satkosia Gorge Eco Camp, Nature & Culture Tour of Orissa : Grass Routes

Odisha: Culture & Nature

9 Days • Puri - Bhubaneswar

Discover Odisha's rich natural and cultural heritage. From regal palaces, ancient ruins and intrricate handicrafts to magestic mangroves and verdent forests. Meet local village communities breathing life into centuiries of traditional craftsmanship and folk art. Soak up thriving cultural heritage and awe-inspiring temples. Cruise along perennial rivers, walk anicent tracks and meet the people that abide seasons of change aligned with the natural world.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 Arrive Puri

Transfer to Puri via the striking UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple at Konark. Conceived as a giant solar chariot, this is one of India's most sublime monuments. Soak up the seaside temple culture of Puri; one of India's Char Dhams (four important Hindu holy spots in India).,

Day 2 Bhubaneswar

Explore Puri's old city by cycle rickshaw. Meander medieval by-lanes, dodge holy cows and rub shoulders with pilgrims to unearth the spirit of the city. Proceed to Bhubaneswar; the capital of Orissa since the ancient ‘Kalinga’ empire. Bubaneswar boasts settlement stretching back 2000 years. Walk through the heritage precinct and behold some of East India's earliest temples.

Days 3 - 4 Bhitarkanika National Park

Delve deep into the mysterious mangrove forests of Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park; a unique ecosystem designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Glide through the extensive network of creeks and rivers. Gaze the diverse bird and wildlife and keep you hands out of the water, the saltwater crocodile bites!

Days 5 - 6 Dhenkanal

Wander through ancient Buddhist ruins and immerse yourself in the regal trimmings of the historic Dhenkanal Palace. Join the saffron clad Mahima Babas at their hilltop ashram. Take part in their rituals and enjoy a communal diner on palm leaf plates. Meet a local community of metal craftsmen and watch them cast brass magic.

Day 7 Satkosia Gorge and Wildlife Sanctuary

Buckle up and enjoy the ride through pristine forest. Set out on a forest walk with local eco-experts to help identify native flora and fauna. Stroll along the River Mahanadi at the base of Satkosia Gorge and drink the awe-inspiring views.

Day 8 Bhubaneswar

After breakfast head back to Bhubaneswar via a traditional weaving village. Watch intricate handloom saris take shape before your eyes. Meet the weavers responsible for mainting textile traditions that span centuries; winess living heritage!

Day 9 Depart Bhubaneswar

You are free to depart at anytime today. We can provide Additional Accommodation and Departure Transfers for your convenience, please let us know at the time of booking.

INCLUSIONS:

Accommodation: Hotel (5 nights), Forest Bangalow (2 nights), Tented Camp (1 night).
Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Diners. Please allow approx. €10 per day for additional meals.
Transport: Private vehicle, cycle rickshaw, mechanised boat (Bhitarkanika & Satkosia) and foot.
Activities: UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple @ Konark, Puri Old City Tour by Cycle Rickshaw, Bhubaneswar Heritage Walk, Bhitarkanika National Park Entry & Activities, Buddhist Ruins Entry, Mahima Rituals, Satkosia Gorge and Wildlife Sanctuary Entry & Activities, Local Craft Village Visits (2).
Support: Passionate Local Leader throughout
Arrival/Departure: Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa is well connected to the rest of India by Domestic Airlines and the Indian Railway network. Puri is only a 2 hour drive to the Airport at Bhubaneshwar. See the Travel Essentials for more information.