Odisha Conservation & Cultural Exploration Tour

March 3 - March 10, 2025

Discover Odisha’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vital conservation efforts.

Overview

Embark on an 8-day journey through the captivating state of Odisha, India, where history, wildlife, and community meet. This tour combines visits to iconic cultural landmarks with hands-on conservation work addressing human-elephant conflict (HEC) in the region. Dive deep into Odisha’s vibrant heritage, pristine natural beauty, and unique efforts to preserve harmony between humans and wildlife.

Tour Highlights

  • Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves: Explore ancient Jain caves carved into sandstone hills.

  • Konark Sun Temple: Witness the architectural grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Jagannath Temple, Puri: Experience the spiritual heart of Odisha.

  • Raghurajpur Heritage Village: Discover the intricate art of Pattachitra painting and meet the artisans.

  • Chilika Lake: Spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins and enjoy a serene boat tour on Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.

  • Dhenkanal: Investigate human-elephant conflict zones and engage with local conservationists.

  • Kumarbhandha Forest: Explore an active elephant corridor and its challenges.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bhubaneswar

  • Arrive in Odisha’s capital city, settle into your hotel, and enjoy a welcome dinner.

  • Optional: Explore the city’s local landmarks and bustling markets.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

  • Visit the ancient Jain caves, learning about their history and religious significance.

  • Afternoon free to relax or explore Bhubaneswar further.

Day 3: Bhubaneswar to Konark & Puri

  • Travel to Konark Sun Temple, marveling at its intricate carvings and historical importance.

  • Continue to Puri, visiting the Jagannath Temple and enjoying the golden sands of Puri Beach.

Day 4: Puri to Raghurajpur Heritage Village

  • Visit the artisan village of Raghurajpur, famous for its traditional Pattachitra art.

  • Meet local artisans, learn about their craft, and enjoy interactive demonstrations.

  • Return to Puri for overnight stay.

Day 5: Puri to Chilika Lake

  • Head to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.

  • Take a boat tour to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins and explore the lake’s diverse birdlife.

Day 6: Chilika to Dhenkanal

  • Travel to Dhenkanal, a key region for human-elephant conflict research.

  • Meet with conservationists and villagers to understand the challenges and solutions in maintaining harmony between humans and elephants.

Day 7: Dhenkanal & Kumarbhandha Forest

  • Visit the Kumarbhandha Forest, an active elephant corridor.

  • Document conservation initiatives, study elephant behavior, and explore the forest's biodiversity.

Day 8: Dhenkanal to Bhubaneswar

  • Return to Bhubaneswar for your departure.

  • Optional: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport.

Tour Details

  • Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

  • Cost: $200 per day ($1,600 total)

    • Single Supplement: $30 per day for private accommodation.

  • What’s Included:

    • All meals.

    • Comfortable accommodations.

    • Land transportation in private vehicles.

    • Professional guides and drivers.

    • Conservation activities and local expert consultations.

  • What’s Not Included:

    • Airfare to and from Odisha.

    • Entry fees to parks, temples, and attractions (estimated costs available upon request).

    • Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, souvenirs).

    • Tips for guides and drivers (optional).

    • Travel insurance (highly recommended).

Payment & Cancellation Policy

  • Deposit: 50% required upon booking to secure your spot.

  • Balance: Due 30 days prior to the tour start date.

  • Cancellation:

    • 30+ days before the tour: 50% of the deposit refunded.

    • Less than 30 days: Non-refundable.

Why Join This Tour?

  • Unique Experiences: Witness Odisha’s iconic landmarks, such as the Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake, while contributing to meaningful conservation work.

  • Conservation Focus: Engage directly with experts and communities working to mitigate human-elephant conflict.

  • Cultural Immersion: Experience Odisha’s vibrant art, history, and spirituality up close.

  • Hassle-Free Travel: Enjoy a seamless journey with all logistics handled by our experienced team.