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Ancient Odisha

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 Odisha 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 Odisha's long spiritual journey.

Days 4 - 5 Puri

Behold the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple 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 Gopalpur via Chilika Lake

Cruise the tranquil wetlands of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and another Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Spot rare migratory birds play among their nets. Stroll along the shore at Gopalpur and explore the beachside fishing village.

Day 7 Muniguda

Bumble along country roads, pass teak plantations and forested hillocks alongside idyllic villages and local markets. Today we enter tribal territory! Meet our sister foundation New Hope responsible for improving education and health care in enighbouring tribal villages.

Tribes of Odisha

Adivasis literally "original inhabitants" are the indigenous population of India. Nestled in the hills of the Eastern Ghats they constitute 25% of Odisha'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 Mali, Paroja, Kondh & 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. Discover a traditional terracotta pottery village and try your hand at the spinning wheel! Walk among the rolling hills encountering Kondh and Paroja hamlets along the way. Enjoy a picnic in the lap of nature and settle into the rhythm of rural life. Explore the largest weekly markets of India's indigenous peoples where everything from cattle to fresh turmeric is on the market.

Local Weekly Markets: Haats

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)

Pass forested hills & lush valleys separating Odisha 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.

INCLUSIONS:

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotels (11 Nights), Community Guest House (1 Night).
Meals: All breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Diners. Bring your favourite snacks for the road journeys!
Transport: Day Train, National Flight, Private Vehicle, Cycle Rickshaw, Boat Cruise and foot.
Activities: Kolkata City Orientation, Bhubaneswar Heritage Walking Tour, UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple at Konark, Puri Old City Tour by Cycle Rickshaw, Heritage PaintingVillage, Chilika Lake Boat Cruise, Tribal Weekly Market visits (Chatikona & Kunduli), Simachalam Temple Entry, Hyderabad City Orientation.
Support: Passionate Local Leader throughout.
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.