Odisha Culture Tour: Exploring Puri Jagannath, Konark Sun Temple, and Pattachitra Art in 2 Days

Embark on a 2-day cultural tour of Odisha, exploring the iconic Puri Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, and the captivating Pattachitra art. Discover the rich history, spirituality, and natural beauty of this enchanting region.

Duration: 2 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

5 Senses Tours - Orientation

Dhauligiri Shanti Stupa - 8 AM- Our first destination is Dhauli. This is the venue of the ancient battle which was fought in 260 BC. Emperor Ashoka, the great Mauryan King won the battle but upon seeing the bloodbath had a change of heart. He became a propagator of peace and had a big role in the spread of Buddhism in India. We will get to see edicts of Ashoka embossed on rocks using the ancient Brahmi script and Prakrit language. The rock cut Elephant sculpture is one of the oldest in India.

Another highlight of Dhauli is the Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda. The current structure was built by an Indo-Japanese collaboration in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangh and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh.

Konark Sun Temple - We will drive to Konark to experience one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of India. Built in 13th century by King Narasimhadeva, the temple is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with seven horses and twelve wheels, carrying the sun god, Surya, across heavens.

The most interesting aspect of the architecture lies in the wheels of the chariot. The twelve pairs of wheels located at the base of the temple are no ordinary wheels. They create a sundial and tell time!

Ramchandi Temple - We will visit Ramachandi temple besides the Bay of Bengal. The temple is surrounded by casurina plantations, and is dedicated to Goddess Chandi who is seen seated on a lotus.

Shree Jagannatha Temple Puri - 6PM- We arrive at beachside town of Puri. We will also see famous temple of Lord Jagannath, from outside as non-Hindus are not allowed inside. The temple is famous for its annual chariot festival. During the chariot festival, the three principal deities are pulled on gigantic chariot. In-fact this chariot festival is the origin for the English term Juggernaut!

Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake - 630 AM- We drive for an hour to reach the magnificent Chilka lake. At Satapada we will take a boat ride on the lake. If we are lucky we can spot dolphins of Irrawady.

Raghurajpur Artist Village - The state of Odisha is very famous for its handicrafts. We will visit a village market at Raghurajpur. This village is home to the immensely talented Pattachitra painters whose traditional style goes back to the 5th century BC. The artists use gum and chalk and their canvas is the dried palm leaf.

Khandagiri Caves - Khandagiri caves are dwelling retreats or cells of ancient Jain ascetics. These were built in the second century BC during the reign of King Kharavela of the Kalinga Kingdom. At the top there is a 18th century Jain temple as well.

Rajarani Temple - Raja rani temple is a temple constructed in the 11th century from reddish and yellow sandstone. This material was called Rajarani in the local dialect and hence the temple got its name. The temple is famous for its unique sculptures of women. Women are in poses performing Odissi the traditional dance form as well as in every day life moments.

6 PM– End of Tour

What's Included
  • Scenic boating experience
  • Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Expert guidance by a professional
  • Delightful breakfast included
  • Comfortable overnight accommodation
  • Travel in style in a private car
What's Not Included
  • Beverages
  • Lunch and Dinner
Additional Information

The ‘Best of Odisha’ trip provides guests a comprehensive exploration of Odisha’s rich heritage in just 48 hours. The journey commences at Dhauli where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism and renounced warfare in 260 BC, thereby influencing the global call to Buddhism. The tour’s crowning moment is the visit to the spellbinding Sun Temple at Konark, famed for its amazing sundials designed in chariot wheel forms. At Puri, the grandeur of the renowned Lord Jagannath Temple, especially noted for its Chariot festival, awaits us. Other intriguing aspects of the tour include a boat trip on Lake Chilika for Dolphin sightings, a close encounter with the artists of the Pattachitra painting style, and a caving adventure in Khandagiri and Udayagiri.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(8 Ratings)
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Nirajsri21
Jul 4, 2024
Family trip to Jagannath Puri - Puri, a coastal city in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is a gem that seamlessly blends spiritual richness with natural beauty. Known primarily for the iconic Jagannath Temple, Puri is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year. Spiritual and Cultural Significance The Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, is a marvel of ancient Indian architecture and an epic centre of spiritual fervour. The annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is a grand spectacle, drawing visitors from around the world. The festival's vibrant colors, traditional music, and immense chariots being pulled through the streets create an atmosphere of divine celebration. The temple's surroundings are bustling with activity, with countless shops selling religious artifacts, local handicrafts, and street food. The traditional art forms, such as Pattachitra (scroll painting) and applique work, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Natural Beauty Puri's coastline is adorned with golden sandy beaches that stretch endlessly, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. The Puri Beach is a perfect spot for leisurely walks, sunbathing, and enjoying the rhythmic waves. The beach also hosts the annual Puri Beach Festival, showcasing sand art, cultural performances, and delicious seafood. Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, is a short drive from Puri. A boat ride on this serene lake, home to a variety of migratory birds, is an enchanting experience. The lake's picturesque islands, such as Kalijai and Nalabana, add to its allure. Cuisine Puri's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Odia cuisine and coastal flavors. The Mahaprasad (holy food) served at the Jagannath Temple is a must-try, offering a taste of divinity with dishes like Khechudi (rice and lentils), Dalma (lentils with vegetables), and various sweets. Seafood lovers will find Puri to be a paradise, with an array of fresh fish, prawns, and crabs cooked in aromatic spices. The local street food, including Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice), Chhena Poda (baked cheese dessert), and the famous Puri Khaja (flaky sweet pastry), is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Hospitality and Accommodation Puri offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. The hospitality of the locals is heartwarming, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Many hotels and resorts provide stunning views of the sea, adding to the overall experience. Connectivity and Accessibility Puri is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 kilometers away. Regular trains and buses make commuting to Puri convenient. Within the city, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available for local transport. Puri is a destination that offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are seeking divine blessings, cultural enrichment, or a peaceful beach holiday, Puri has something to offer. Its timeless charm and warm hospitality make it a destination worth visiting and cherishing. For anyone planning a trip to India, Puri should undoubtedly be on your itinerary.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Navigator66596135702
Mar 31, 2024
Awesome experience @ Sterling Puri - Awesome experience, Good food and nice hospitality. Special mention to Raghunath at Restaurant. We are vegetarians and still the food quality, variety, service all are to great extent. Overall an fantabulous experience @ Sterling Puri
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Navigator49750682569
Mar 22, 2024
Puri - Door to Heavan - It was a devotional trip, clubbed with a small vacation. Took blessings of Jagannath Prabhu and visited other temples of Puri. Enjoyed seren beaches in the evening
Review provided by Tripadvisor
558adnanf
Dec 12, 2023
Excellent - I had used the services of five senses to organise 3 day trip in Odisha. The itinerary was very thoughtfully conceived, and the execution was impeccable. My parents enjoyed themselves, and had high praise for the guide and driver. Many thanks to the five senses tours
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Manishk771
May 25, 2023
Temple so beautiful - The temple is so beautiful I love this place and odisha also I want visit there next time also love it
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Ranvijayronny
Apr 19, 2023
Amazing Odisha - Odisa is very beautful Gopalpur: Amazing Beach, resort stayed Mayfair Palm & must say very very good. 1 Day or max 2 day vist. Konark: beautiful Ancient temple, Jambeshwar Panda (9777397643) was used as Guide, he had amazing knowledge & explained in detail all things & very friendly with Kids. I would recommend him everyday. Puri: Temple complex is amazing, would recommend visiting in evenings as a bit less crowded during evenings, try staying away from guides or people saying easy darshan. stayed in Sterling resort, its ok. Blue beach is really good. My whole visit was road trip with kids from Bhuwaneshwer & roads are good and views are nice. Chilka lake is good but activites were less.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ramakrishnad20
Apr 19, 2022
Odisha cultural trip - Excellent weather despite peak summer...Chilka Lake and Konark temple apart from Chandrabagha beach stood out as outstanding. There were Odisi dance performances at Lingaraj temple and was out of the world
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thepotato85
Dec 28, 2021
Puri, Chilika Lake & Raghurajpur Crafts Village - do not miss theee gems! - Day 2 of our trip promised to and delivered on a variety of experiences. Prabhat explained the history of the Jagannath temple at Puri, and guided us into the sanctum of Lord Jagannath for a spiritual and memorable darshan. After this, we boated in Chilika Lake, and spotted 3-4 bottlenose Irrawady dolphins. We then travelled to a more forgotten part of the state, to the Heritage craft Village of Raghurajpur. i would like to speak a few words here about the people, after being cordially invited into their homes. We were quite blown away. they invite you into their humble homes and show you how insanely talented they are. it’s a crying shame that the govt does not have a better mechanism to promote and support these wonderful craftsmen. The visit to this village left a tremendous impact. we did what we could to support them but its impossible not be impartial to more than a couple of artisans in the village. Please take the time to spend some money and effort to recognize and save their way of life. We deeply treasured some of the artwork we purchased here. Very mindful of 5Senses to round off the tour on this note, and show tourists not only the popular spots, but also the culture and artwork that calls Odisha home!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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September 2024
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