- Tour the architecturally rich temples of Bhubaneshwar.
- Visit the Sun Temple at Konarak with it's divine carvings.
- Visit the Lord Jaganath Temple in Puri, one of the holiest places of Hindus.
- Kolkata Chromosome
- Sight seeing tour of the City of Joy, Kolkata.
The Eastern temple triangle of Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Konarak is an architectural feast. Apart from being one of the most popular religious routes the sheer beauty of these temples is breathtaking.
The Sun Temple at Konarak is dedicated to the Sun God Surya. In the shape of a chariot the architecture reflects the science of time. The wheels have 24 spokes symbolising the 24 hours of the day. The chariot itself is pulled by 7 horses signifying the seven days of the week.
While both Puri and Bhubaneshwar are also a treasure trove of temple architecture, do not miss out on the beach at Puri or the shopping at Bhubaneshwar. Silver filigree artifacts, jewellery and Oriya textiles - Kotai Silks, are beautiful and intricate and make a great buy.
DAY 1 KOLKATA - BHUBANESWAR
Reception at airport and transfer to hotel. Morning - sightseeing tour of Calcutta. The Victoria Memorial is the best introduction to the city. St. Paul's Cathedral, Fort William, Raj Bhawan, and the High Court are all strongly British in character. The Indian Museum has some priceless relics of ancient civilizations. Calcutta is a city with a soul, and one which many residents are very fond of. Afternoon transfer to the airport in time to board flight to Bhubaneshwar. Reception upon arrival at Bhubaneswar and transfer from airport to hotel.
DAY 2 BHUBANESWAR
Morning - sightseeing with visit to the great Lingaraja temple. Later visit the Mukteswara Temple. Also visit the 11th century, Raja Rani Temple set in picturesque surroundings famous for its sculptural excellence. Finally visit the Parasurameswara Temple built in 650 A.D. and the Vaital Temple devoted to Tantric cults. Excursion to Chilka Lake, India's biggest inland lake.
DAY 3 BHUBANESWAR - PURI - KONARK
The best of Orissan temple architecture, can be seen in the "Golden Triangle" Bhubneswar, Puri and Konark. Morning - visit Puri and Konark. Puri is the abode of Lord Jagannatha, just 60 kms from Bhubaneswar. Visit the Ananda Bazar - the biggest food market of the world and the Gundecha Mandir known for its architectural beauty. Drive along the grand road, called "Bada Dandda" also a shopper's stop for souvenirs and mementos. After visiting Puri drive to Konark. On the coast of Orissa, rises a magnificent black temple dedicated to the divine charioteer, Surya. The Sun Temple is an example of the golden era of Orissan architecture.
DAY 4 BHUBANESWAR-KOLKATA
Morning transfer to airport in time to board flight to Kolkata. Upon arrival reception and transfer to hotel. Day free for independent activities. Evening transfer to international airport. Departure Kolkata. |
