Classic Odisha Tour

Discover historic Calcutta, which was the capital of British India until 1911. Begin your explorations with a heritage walking tour that includes the Writer’s Building, which was originally the headquarters of the East India Company. Then, visit the splendid Victoria Memorial – often called the ‘Taj of the Raj’, the poignant Park Street Cemetery and St. John’s Church. Then, enjoy a traditional Bengali lunch at a private home before returning to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Fly to Bhubaneshwar in Odisha this morning. Dubbed as ‘Varanasi of the East’, this sprawling metropolis is home to a staggering 600 or so temples. Later this afternoon, set off on a heritage walk through Bhubaneshwar’s old quarter and discover striking Kalinga-style temples with exquisite stone carvings. Your tour includes visits to the three most important temples – Lingaraja, Mukteswara and Rajarani.

Begin your day with a visit to the impressive rock-cut caves at Udayagiri and Kandagiri, famed for their intricate carvings, which showcase the arrival and evolution of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism during different periods of Odisha’s long spiritual journey. In the afternoon, visit Ashoka’s rock edict at Dhauli and watch the sound and light show at Shanti Stupa.

Drive to the sacred town of Puri, considered Odisha’s spiritual capital. En route, visit the artisan villages of Pipli and Raghurajpur, home to award-winning artists nurturing traditional art forms such as Pattachitra and palm leaf art. Later this afternoon, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride along the bustling Grand Road, which will allow you to soak up the atmosphere around the celebrated Lord Jagannath temple and then proceed to the roof-top terrace of the old Raghunandan Library to observe the various activities unfolding within the temple complex.

Spend the morning exploring the iconic Sun Temple at Konark, regarded as one of Odisha’s finest temples showcasing classic Kalinga-style temple architecture. Dedicated to the Sun God ‘Surya’, the temple is designed like a gigantic stone chariot drawn by seven galloping horses with twenty-four intricately carved wheels. While every aspect of life has been carved on the facades of the temple, the most striking sculptures are the erotic stone sculptures, which are said to surpass even those at Khajuraho.

Set off this morning to the tranquil Chilika Lake, a Ramsar Wetland sanctuary and Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. With the forested hills of the Eastern Ghats providing a scenic backdrop, the lake attracts over 160 species of birds, including migratory species from as far as Siberia and is a paradise for ornithologists. Later this afternoon, enjoy a boat safari offering plenty of opportunities to spot migratory birds.

Rise early for an early morning boat safari through Chilika Lake. Then, drive to the former princely state of Dhenkanal, where you will stay at a simple yet delightful heritage homestay once home to the Raja of Dhenkanal. It offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the former royal family. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax in the grounds of the Dhenkanal Palace. Should you prefer something more active, options include hiking or visiting a nearby working coffee estate.

Dhenkanal is ideally located for those who enjoy rural pursuits, and your morning tour is designed to include the weaving village of Nuapatna and the Dokra village, where artisans still employ the ancient lost-wax method and use scrap metal to create attractive bracelets and artefacts.

Drive to Bhubaneshwar Airport this morning and check in on arrival for your flight to Kolkata ( Calcutta). Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to Rajbari Bawali, an utterly charming manor house and an excellent base to relax and discover rural Bengal.

Today is at leisure. Alternatively, set off on a guided village walk before discovering the Bon Bibi temples unique to this area and conclude your explorations with a short sunset boat ride along the Ganges.

Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to Kolkata International Airport. On arrival, check in for your onward flight.