Festival of Faith

5 Days  •  Bhubaneswar - Puri  • 11 - 16 JULY 2018

A riot of colour, spectacle and sweat; the festival of faith is one of India’s most electrifying festivals. Bigger than Pushkar Fair and second only to the Kumbh Mela, the extraordinary festival of faith exemplifies the true spirit of India. Attracting thousands of pilgrims every year the elaborate procession continues a tradition that dates beyond centuries.  Infused with ritual, devotion and fervour close to mayhem, the festival of faith is a unique experience for the spirited traveller!

ITINERARY:

Day 1  Bhubaneswar to Puri                                        22 June 2017

Bhubaneswar, the lively capital of Odisha since the ancient ‘Kalinga’ empire boasts settlement stretching back 2000 years. Walk through the old quarter to discover ancient temples. Transfer to Puri via Heritage Craft Village Raghurajpur. This is a unique village dedicated to the Arts and home to a lineage of artisans that have shaped their respective crafts since the 5th C.

Day 2  Puri                                                                23 June 2017

Puri is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites (one the Charm Dham’s as defined by Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu saint). Follow the ancient pilgrim route by cycle rickshaw exploring medieval by-lanes, dropping into a palm-leaf library and witness the awesome Jagannath Temple; the epicenter of the city.

Day 3  Puri                                                               24 June 2017

Wake up to a morning yoga session followed by a leisurely walk along the beach. In the afternoon hit the city streets again to witness the final preparations as completed chariots are positioned in front of the temple and draped in canopies of bright appliqué. Enjoy a private folk dance performance by local Gotipua troupe.

Festival Facts

Known in India as the Rath Yatra or more literally chariot festival, this epic event attracts millions of pilgrims. The huge procession marks the annual holidays of patron gods Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra & sister Subhadra. Massive chariots are built for the occasion and physically hauled through the town by thousands of devotees. It happens once a year in Puri, Odisha on the east coast of India. However 2015 promises to be a MEGA event! An especially auspicious time destined by the Hindu calendar wherein the periodical renewal of bodies (the idols are carved of wood) are changed and Puri is excepting a massive 3 million people to visit at this time!

Day 4   Puri                                                               25 June 2017

Today we witness the MAIN EVENT as swarms of people congregate on the Grand Rd to witness their patron gods in their brand new form. We’ll jostle among the crowds to feel the spirit of the devotees but we’ll also secure a rooftop position wherein we can safely observe the celebrations.

Day 5   Puri                                                                26 June 2017

After the excitement of yesterday, we take a breather and venture into a private garden to enjoy a moment under a canopy of trees. Optional dip in the river before a picnic lunch. We then proceed to Konark and behold the UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple. Conceived as a giant solar chariot, this is one of India’s most sublime monuments.

Day 6  Depart                                                             27 June 2017

You are free to depart at any time today (your Hotel check out is 8am). Ask us about further Day Excursions or longer extentions if interested. We can also provide Additional Accommodation and Airport Transfers for you, please let us know at the time of booking.

INCLUSIONS:

Accommodation (5 Nights in Puri): Grass Routes offers the choice of a locally run Bed and Breakfast or 3 star Beachfront Hotel.Let us know your preference so that we can revert with the price accordingly. Please note Puri is extremely busy during the Rath Yatra and your choice is subject to availability. Get in quick to avoid disappointment!
Meals: All Breakfasts, 2 Lunches. Please allow approx. €10 per day for additional meals.
Transport: Private Transfers from Bhubaneswar to Puri and during the day excursion to Konark. Cycle Rickshaws in Puri.
Activities: Bhubaneswar Heritage Walk, Heritage Craft Village (Raghurajpur) Visit, Puri Old City Tour by Cycle Rickshaw, Private Yoga session & Beach Walk, Pre-Festival City Visit, Private Gotipua Performance, Priority Rath Yatra rooftop seating, Garden Picnic Lunch and UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple (Konark).
Support: Fully supported by passionate Local Guides throughout.

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