Trip Overview : Odisha – The Eternal Soul
Experience the mystical charm of India’s best-kept secret. This curated 6-day journey through Odisha is a deep dive into ancient civilizations, architectural marvels, and pristine natural wonders. From the “Temple City” of Bhubaneswar, where 11th-century spires touch the sky, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Konark, every mile tells a story of devotion and grandeur. Witness the rare white tigers of Nandankanan, explore the silent Buddhist monasteries of the Diamond Triangle, and find spiritual peace on the Blue Flag beaches of Puri. This is not just a tour; it is an encounter with the timeless spirit of the East. https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/tamil-nadu
Why This Experience is Unmatched?
- The Buddhist Diamond Triangle: Explore the ruins of Ratnagiri and Udayagiri—monasteries that once rivaled Nalanda, offering a peaceful look into Odisha's Buddhist heritage.
- UNESCO Masterpiece: Stand in awe before the Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century stone chariot that remains one of the world’s greatest architectural wonders.
- Rare Wildlife Encounters: Get a private audience with the world-famous White Tigers and Melanistic Tigers at Nandankanan, set within a natural forest.
- The Dolphin Lagoon: Cruise the vast waters of Chilika Lake (Satapada) to spot the rare and endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Coastal Luxury: Relax at Blue Flag certified beaches and experience the divine energy of the Jagannath Temple, the heart of Odisha’s spiritual identity.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
✅ What’s Included (Inclusions) | ❌ What’s Not Included (Exclusions) |
🏨 Selected Accommodation: 5 nights stay in handpicked hotels as per your chosen package category. | 🎟️ Sightseeing Entry Fees/Activities: Any Sightseeing/Entry Tickets and activities excluded. 🚤 Boating Charges: Private or shared boat hire costs for Chilika Lake (Satapada/Dolphin Trip |
🍳 Morning Breakfast: Complimentary daily breakfast at all hotels to kickstart your day. | ✈️ Travel Tickets: Airfare or Train tickets to and from Bhubaneswar are not part of this package. |
🚗 Private AC Vehicle: Dedicated AC Sedan/SUV for all transfers, inter-city travel, and sightseeing as per the itinerary. | 🍛 Additional Meals: Any lunch or dinner not specifically mentioned |
⛽ Covered Travel Costs: All fuel charges, road tolls, parking fees, and driver allowances are fully included. | 🛍️ Personal Expenses: Tips, laundry, beverages, telephone calls, and any personal shopping. |
🤝 Meet & Greet: Hassle-free arrival with a professional meet and greet by our experienced driver at Bhubaneshwar Airport/Railway Station. | 📉 GST 5%: Government Service Tax will be extra on the final package cost. |
ACCOMMODATION
LOCATION | HOTEL NAME | ROOM CATEGORY | MEAL PLAN |
BHUBANESWAR (3 NIGHT) | KT GRAND OR SIMILAR | STANDARD | BREAKFAST |
PURI (2 NIGHTS) | SHREE GANJAN OR SIMILAR | DELUXE | BREAKFAST |
BEST VALUE
Package Cost: $300/- Per Person (Starting Price)
LOCATION | HOTEL NAME | ROOM CATEGORY | MEAL PLAN |
BHUBANESWAR (3 NIGHT) | GRAND CENTRAL OR SIMILAR | SUPER DELUXE | BREAKFAST |
PURI (2 NIGHTS) | SAPPHIRE INTERNATIONAL OR SIMILAR | PREMIUM | BREAKFAST |
MOST POPULAR
Package Cost: $350/- Per Person
LOCATION | HOTEL NAME | ROOM CATEGORY | MEAL PLAN |
BHUBANESWAR (3 NIGHT) | PAL HEIGHTS MANTRA OR SIMILAR | MANTRA GRAND | BREAKFAST |
PURI (2 NIGHTS) | TOSHALI SANDS OR SIMILAR | SUPERIOR | BREAKFAST |
Package Cost: $450/- Per Person
LOCATION | HOTEL NAME | ROOM CATEGORY | MEAL PLAN |
BHUBANESWAR (3 NIGHT) | WELCOM ITC OR SIMILAR | SUPERIOR | BREAKFAST |
PURI (2 NIGHTS) | NRS ROYAL OR SIMILAR | PREMIUM SEA VIEW | BREAKFAST |
ELITE EXPERIENCE
Package Cost: $650/- Per Person
DETAILED DAY-WISE ITINERARY
Upon your arrival at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) or the Railway Station, our representative will escort you to your hotel for a smooth check-in. In the afternoon, embark on a journey through the "Temple City" of Bhubaneswar, visiting the towering 11th-century Lingaraj Temple, the exquisite Mukteshwar Temple (renowned as the Gem of Odia Architecture), and the uniquely carved Rajarani Temple. As the sun begins to set, head to the Dhauli Shanti Stupa. This pristine white peace pagoda overlooks the River Daya, marking the historic site where Emperor Ashoka renounced war after the Kalinga battle. Enjoy the panoramic valley view before retiring for the night.
Start your morning at the world-renowned Nandankanan Zoological Park, a natural forest sanctuary famous for its successful conservation of White Tigers and rare Melanistic (Black) Tigers. After a thrilling safari, gain profound insights into Odisha’s indigenous heritage at the Tribal Museum, which showcases the lifestyle and art of the state’s 62 distinct tribes. End your day at the twin hills of Khandagiri and Udayagiri. Explore the ancient rock-cut Jain shelters and the magnificent Rani Gumpha (Queen’s Cave), while interacting with the friendly langurs that guard the hilltop.
Today, we head towards the "Diamond Triangle" of Odisha to explore the excavated ruins of Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. These ancient Buddhist sites feature massive stupas, beautifully carved monasteries, and colossal Buddha statues that reflect the peak of Buddhist art and learning in India. Unlike the Jain caves, these sites offer a meditative atmosphere amidst rolling hills and archaeological wonders. After a day of exploring these "Hidden Gems," return to Bhubaneswar for a relaxing evening at your leisure.
Check out from your hotel and drive toward the spiritual hub of Puri. En route, witness the staggering brilliance of the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the form of a massive stone chariot. Learn how the intricately carved wheels act as precise sundials. After exploring the temple, enjoy the pristine sands of Chandrabhaga Beach before arriving in Puri. Check into your sea-facing hotel and spend the evening relaxing at the Golden Beach, one of the few Blue Flag certified beaches in India, known for its cleanliness and serene atmosphere.
Embark on an early morning drive to Satapada, located on the scenic banks of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Take a private boat cruise toward the Sea Mouth to spot the playful and rare Irrawaddy Dolphins. In the late afternoon, return to Puri for a spiritual Darshan at the Jagannath Temple, the world-famous "Lord of the Universe." Soak in the divine energy of the temple complex and explore the local markets for authentic Odia handicrafts and textiles before your final night in the coastal town.
After a leisurely breakfast by the sea, check out from your hotel. Depending on your flight or train schedule, our representative will transfer you back to Bhubaneswar (Airport/Railway Station) for your onward journey. Carry back the memories of ancient stones, golden sunsets, and the soulful spirit of Odisha.
Check our other spiritual packages : https://inbound.india.sarvaenroute.com/trip-types/pilgrimage-spiritual/
TRANSFER
DAYS | DESCRIPTION |
DAY 01 | Airport to Hotel : Private Basis Bhubaneshwar Sightseeing : Private Basis |
DAY 02 | Bhubaneshwa Sightseeing : Private Basis |
DAY 03 | Udayagiri & Ratnagiri Excursion : Private Basis |
DAY 04 | Bhubaneshwar to Puri : Private Basis Konark Sightseeing : Private Basis |
DAY 05 | Puri Sightseeing & Chillika Lake : Private Basis |
DAY 06 | Puri to Airport: Private Basis |
MEALS
DAYS | DESCRIPTION |
DAY 02 | BREAKFAST |
DAY 03 | BREAKFAST |
DAY 04 | BREAKFAST |
DAY 05 | BREAKFAST |
DAY 06 | BREAKFAST |
TERMS & CONDITIONS
📋 GENERAL BOOKING & SIGHTSEEING POLICY
- Hotel Selection: As per preference. While Bhubaneswar and Puri offer premium options, accommodation in Bhitarkanika National Park consists of Eco-Resorts or Government Lodges. Guests must expect basic amenities (limited WiFi, simple food, and rustic settings) in these nature zones.
- Boat Safari & Transfer Timings:
- Bhitarkanika Protocol: Entry permits are issued for strict boat slots. Guests must depart the hotel on time to reach the jetty. If the designated boat slot is missed due to guest delay, the forest department may deny entry.
- Chilika Lake: Boat rides are subject to weather conditions. During high tide or heavy winds, rides may be suspended by the boat association for safety.
- The “Non-Hindu” Temple Policy:
- Entry Restrictions: The Jagannath Temple (Puri) and Lingaraj Temple (Bhubaneswar) strictly prohibit entry for non-Hindus (foreigners and Indian non-Hindus).
- Viewing Arrangements: For non-Hindu guests, we arrange the best possible viewing points (e.g., the Raghunandan Library roof in Puri or the viewing platform in Bhubaneswar) to see the complex from outside.
- The “Museum & Zoo” Protocol:
- Monday Closures (CRITICAL): The Nandankanan Zoological Park and the Museum of Tribal Arts are strictly CLOSED on Mondays. The itinerary sequence will be swapped if your dates overlap.
- Konark Sun Temple: Footwear is strictly prohibited on the main platform. The stone floor gets scorching hot in the afternoon; wearing thick cotton socks is highly recommended.
- Physical Requirements (Boat & Feet):
- Crocodile Safety: During the Bhitarkanika boat safari, guests are strictly forbidden from dipping hands or feet into the water. The estuarine crocodiles are aggressive and territorial.
- Barefoot Walking: Visiting Puri and Bhubaneswar temples involves significant walking barefoot. Guests with sensitive feet should be prepared.
- Force Majeure (Coastal Edition): (Replaces Urban Edition) Delays or cancellations caused by cyclonic weather warnings, high-tide alerts, boat strikes, or sudden elephant movement blocking roads (in forest zones) are beyond our control. Any additional costs for extended stays or route diversions are to be borne by the guest.
- Payments: Full payment for specific permits (like Bhitarkanika Forest Entry or Mangrove Boat Charters) is required in advance as these are 100% non-refundable upon confirmation.
- Physical Needs: Please communicate specific physical concerns in advance.
- Documentation: Mandatory: Guests must carry the Original Physical ID (Aadhar/Passport). Digital copies are often rejected at Forest Check-posts and Government (OTDC) lodges.
- Check-in/out: Standard 08:00 AM or 10:00 AM Checkout is common in Puri hotels (unlike the standard 12 PM elsewhere). Please check your specific hotel voucher.
- Amendments: Customizations during or 7 days prior to the trip may incur extra charges.
- No Show: Rooms not occupied by 20:00 hrs are considered “No Shows” unless prior notice is given.
💳 CANCELLATION & FLIGHT POLICY
- Non-Refundable: No refunds on blackout dates/long weekends.
- Cancellation Fee : Regardless of reason, cancellations are costly. To offset these costs, the following fees will apply. If you cancel, non-recoverable expenses of$50 per person will be charged and over and above that the following will be charged on cancellation of a tour.
- Refundable Amount :
- Cancelled 30 days or more prior to trip start date: 35 % of total package cost.
- Cancelled between 15 – 30 days prior to trip start date: 50 % of total package cost.
- Cancelled between 14 days to 7 days prior to trip start date: 80 % of total package cost.
- Cancellation less than 7 Days prior to trip start date: 100 % of package cost will be charged.
- Postponement: Postponing may incur a rebooking fee. Post-postponement cancellations forfeit all amounts.
- Flight Policy: We act as facilitators. Carrier terms apply. We are not responsible for airline delays.
- Credit Note: A 6-month Credit Note will be provided for the possible refundable amount depending on the Selected Hotels and time period of cancellation .