Jewels of East India!!
The eastern region of India, encompassing cultural hubs like Bhubaneswar and Kolkata, is renowned
for its exquisite jewels that reflect the rich heritage of the land. Bhubaneswar, known as the Temple
City, boasts intricately crafted jewelry inspired by traditional Odishan designs. Kolkata, a cultural
melting pot, showcases a diverse range of jewelry influenced by its historical significance and
contemporary trends. In the scenic landscapes surrounding Shillong and Kaziranga National Park,
indigenous communities create unique jewelry pieces, incorporating natural elements and reflecting the
region’s vibrant biodiversity.
Jewels of East India!!
The eastern region of India, encompassing cultural hubs like Bhubaneswar and Kolkata, is renowned for its exquisite jewels that reflect the rich heritage of the land. Bhubaneswar, known as the Temple City, boasts intricately crafted jewelry inspired by traditional Odishan designs. Kolkata, a cultural melting pot, showcases a diverse range of jewelry influenced by its historical significance and contemporary trends. In the scenic landscapes surrounding Shillong and Kaziranga National Park, indigenous communities create unique jewelry pieces, incorporating natural elements and reflecting the region’s vibrant biodiversity.
Day 01: Arrival / Delhi
Welcome to India, or as we say ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
Late night arrival, meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room)(No Meals)
Day 02: Delhi / Bhubaneswar (UK 787 – 1020 / 1220 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will drive to the Delhi airport to board the flight to Bhubaneswar
Meeting and assistance upon arrival, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel, Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels.
(Though check in time is 2pm, every effort would be made to ensure an as early as possible check in – subject to availability)
After rest & relaxation, we will visit the ancient caves of Khandagiri and Udaygiri which were carved and tunneled, to create this multi-storied ancient apartment residence for Jain monks. They were the work of the first known Orissan ruler, King Kharavela, and probably began in the first century BC. Kharavela was a king of the Mahameghavahana dynasty, who is known for expansion of the Kalinga Empire and his installation of public improvements, such as canal systems. His queen was evidently quite a patron of the arts, and probably had much to do with the impressive sculptural decoration of the caves.
Overnight at WelcomhotelBy ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 03: Bhubaneswar
After breakfast, we will start to explore the ancient Temple City of India. Among the finest of its 600 temples is the Lingaraj Temple of Shiva built in the 11th century, it is also the biggest in Bhubaneswar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Lingaraj’. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Bindusagar Lake lying to the north of the Lingaraja Temple is one of the popular tourist attractions of Bhubaneswar.
Lingaraj Temple (Non Hindu are not allowed inside the temple. To be viewed from a platform outside).
Next, we will proceed on a heritage trail of Bhubneshwar. This Heritage Walk of Bhubneshwar is a rediscovery and celebration of the city’s rich architectural treasures, its traditions, rituals and customs. We will begin our guided walk with a visit to the Mukteswara temple which was built during the 10th century CE. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva worshipped as Lord Mukteswara or Lord of spiritual freedom. The temple has been accounted for as a “miniature gem” by historians for its intricate and well-proportioned craftsmanship. The signature of the temple is the Torana or the arched gate which is one of the most photographed architectural structures in India. The exquisitelycarved pillars of the arched gate leave visitors awestruck with its matchless precision and skill.
On our tour, we will also visit Rajarani Temple. Built around AD 1100, this temple surrounded by manicured gardens is famous for its ornate deul (temple spire). Around the compass points are pairs of statues representing eight dikpalas (temple guardians). Between them, nymphs, embracing couples, elephants and lions peer from niches and decorate the temple’s pillars. Following our Heritage trail, we will proceed on a local market tour of Bhubneshwar. Few regions of India retain as rich a diversity of traditional art forms as Odisha. While a browse through the bazaars and emporia in Bhubaneswar provides a good idea of local styles and techniques. Silk saris from Brahmapur and Sambalpur regions are the most famous, though ikat, which originally came to Odisha via the ancient trade links with Southeast Asia, is also typical. This form is created using a tie-dye- like technique known as bandha. Today, the demand for souvenirs has given many old art forms a new lease of life.
Overnight at WelcomhotelBy ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 04: Bhubaneswar / Pipli / Konark / Puri / Bhubaneswar (168 Kms) (04 ½ Hrs Drive – Excluding Touring Duration)
After breakfast, we will proceed for an excursion to Pipli, Konark and Puri.
We will first visit the village of Pipli which has the monopoly on appliqué, and other craft rooted in the Jagannath cult. Geometric motifs and stylized birds, animals and flowers are cut from brightly coloured cloth and sewn onto black backgrounds. Pipli artists are responsible for the chariot covers used in the RathYatra (The famous Car Festival of Odisha) as well as for the small canopies, or chhatris, suspended above the presiding deity in Odishan temples.
Next, we proceed to visit the famous Sun Temple at Konarak. The grandest of Orissa’s temples is Konark Sun Temple. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is 66 km (41 miles) from Bhubaneswar and best visited en route to the nearby town Puri, on the east coast. Set on a tree- lined lawn, the temple represents a chariot of the sun god, complete with 24 carved wheels. Every visible surface is sculpted, telling a complex narrative of the religious, political and social life of the people who lived in 13th-century Orissa. The craftsmanship of the temple is so impressive — the usually reserved UNESCO board called it ‘a masterpiece of creative genius’ — that stories of its master builder, BisuMoharana have gone down in local legend. Also, visit the local Fishermans village and interact with the local community.
Later, we will proceed to Puri.
As the home of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Puri ranks among Hindu India’s most important sacred sites, visited by a vast number of pilgrims each year. The crowds peak during the monsoons for RathYatra, the famous “Car Festival”, when millions pour in to watch three giant, multicoloured chariots being drawn up the main thoroughfare. At the centre of the maelstrom, the Jagannath temple soars above the town’s medieval heart and colonial suburbs. Non- Hindus and Foreign Nationals aren’t allowed inside the temple, but don’t let this deter you; Puri’s streets and beach remain the focus of intense devotional activity year round, while its bazaars are crammed with collectable souvenirs associated with Indian Mythology.
We will also visit Raghurajpur Pattachitra Crafts village.
Located around 12 kms from Puri, Raghurajpur is the home to around 500 Chitrakars (artists who are expert in Pattachitra painting). Each household has at least one Chitrakar who is highly skilled and immensely creative. Raghurajpur is famous for Pattachitra paintings on a piece of cloth. There are many types of Pattachitra like Tassar cloth Pattachitra, Palm leaf Pattachitra etc. With evolution and innovation, now the Chitrakars have started painting exquisite Pattachitras on coconuts, betel nuts, clay pots, bottles etc. Also, what makes this place stand out from others? The cheerful smile on the face of the artisans – they will welcome youto their home, and will show you their art, crafts & paintings patiently. However, they will never force you to purchase anything from them. Even if you don’t purchase anything, they will bid adieu with a smile.
Overnight at Welcome hotelBy ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 05: Bhubaneswar / Kolkata (6E 201 – 0800 / 0900 Hrs)
Early morning, we will transfer to the Bhubaneswar airport to board our flight to Kolkata.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Kolkata airport and we will transfer to hotel, Calcutta Bungalow, a new restored heritage property set in the heart of Kolkata. This beautiful and historic Bungalow is nestled amongst the backstreets of quiet, north Kolkata neighbourhood. Moreover, this nearly century-old building sporting a mix of colonial and local architecture, reminiscent of 20th-century Calcutta. The carefully done architectural style, and décor will give you a sense of the minutest attention that has been given to every detail.
(Though the check in time is 2 pm, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – subject to availability)
After rest and relaxation, we will have an excursion to Belur Math and Dakshineswar Kali Temple. At first, we drove to Belur Math, a beautiful temple ashram built by Swami Vivekananda in loving memory of his teacher Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa who preached for the unity of all religions and redefined the idea of each one of them. Also, BelurMath is the international headquarter of the Ramakrishna Mission which was established as a place of pilgrimage for people of different religious faiths. Following ouruplifting experience in BelurMath, we will now visit Dakhineswar Temple. This temple has many interesting legends and stories attached to it. The construction of this fabulous temple was initialized in the year 1847 and was completed in 1855. The credit for the formation of Dakshineswar Kali temple goes to the queen Rashmoni of Janbazar. Located on the bank of the Ganges, and dedicated to Goddess Kali. The atmosphere here is simply magical as you witness and experience the sound of bells, drums, chants, and the smell of freshly lit incense sticks.
Overnight at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata (Towers Exclusive) (B)
Day 06: Kolkata
Following a leisurely breakfast, we will have a Bazaar Tour where you get to feel the warmth of the people, the passion, and, the love for their city. First, we will visit the Flower Market, beneath the east end of Howrah Bridge; this is eastern India’s largest flower market with hundreds of stalls and people sitting on the ground. Then, we will visit the Burra Bazar area, which is a world in itself. The Marwaris from Rajasthan migrated here a long time ago, and, made it their home. Actually, you would notice a unique ecosystem where their business and, dwellings coexist in a colorful harmony. These unique bleeding’s have indeed contributedto Kolkata’s thrilling cultural legacy. Then, we will visit Kumartuli. This unique artisan village dates back 400 years, making it perhaps the oldest of its kind in the world. It is the lifeblood of Bengal‘s biggest festival and keeps the Puja fervor alive among Bengali communities in other countries. Around 250 artists work to produce 40,000 idols a year, including 3500 images of Durga. With more than a thousand workers assisting the artisans, Kumartuli is a mini industry. It exports 50 Durgaidols to virtually all corners of the world, including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Switzerland.
We will then visit the College Street Book Market, Kolkatans are well-known for their passion for books and this area is a treasure for the book lovers of the city – you can find of them every day spending hours browsing through the loads of new books or bargaining for buying a second hand one. Some of the Kolkata‘s most renowned academic institutions like Kolkata University, Presidency College, Kolkata Medical College and Sanskrit College are also located in this street. Next, we visit the Indian Coffee house and get engaged in an informal chat session with university students. Also known as Albert Hall this is the most favourite gathering place for the writers, intellectuals, artists and students for many decades. Casual chatting for hours about any issue is the most favourite social activity of any Bengali and here in this large historical and legendary café, entire day you can find hundreds of Kolkatans are busy discussing about their favourite issue over a cup of coffee. Following our engaging session at Coffee House, we will now take a Tram ride (Subject to Operation – If Tram unavailable we will ride rickshaw or black & yellow cabs)from College Street to Bhim Chandra Nag sweet shop, deboard the tram and savour traditional Bengali sweets at this heritage sweet shop. They specialize in a mouth-watering sweet called Ledikeni, a light reddish-brown fried sweet ball made of chena and flour and soaked in sugar syrup. The sweet was first prepared by Bhim Chandra Nag for Lady Canning, the wife of Charles Canning – the Governor-General of India during 1856-62. Ledikeni, a unique variation of gulabjamun (North Indian Delicacy), originated in the mid-19th century.
Lastly, we will visit Mother Teresa’s & Missionaries of Charity Kolkata, apart from housing several worship places, also houses the sacred sanctum of social work, called & Missionaries of Charity It is essentially a Roman Catholic religious order, founded in 1950, by Mother Teresa in Kolkata (then Calcutta), which works for the poor and destitute. Started with just 12 volunteers, this order has now spread to 133 nations of the world, with about 4,500 permanent women volunteers called “Sisters”. ‘Missionaries of Charity’ in Kolkata works for the real needy and deprived section of society. It helps the sick, orphans, lepers, AIDS victims, abandoned elderly, mentally challenged people, refugees and ex-prostitutes. The charity has 19 homes in Kolkata; each of them working for a specific cause, e.g. NirmalHriday – the home for pure heart, working for the sick, dying and destitute in the city of Kolkata. Other homes include Shanti Nagar – the city of peace, meant for leprosy patients and NirmalaShishuBhawan, meant for orphaned kids. The Missionary also works for educating the street children of Kolkata.
Overnight at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata (Towers Exclusive) (B)
Day 07: Kolkata / Shillong (6E 7304 – 1010 / 1145 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will transfer to the Kolkata airport to board our flight to Shillong.
(Though the check in time is 2 pm, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – subject to availability)
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Shillong airport and we will transfer to hotel, Polo Towers.
This evening, we will visit the exciting ‘Police Baaar’. A walk in the brightly little ‘Police Bazar’ streets is a must for witnessing the highly fashion conscious beauties of Shillong. Walking down its enchanting roads, rather than driving around, is the way to experience the true essence of Shillong, like exchanging pleasant “Khubleis” with the betel nut stained, pretty Khasis carrying babies on their backs.
Overnight at Polo Towers, Shillong (Executive Room – Upgraded) (B)
Day 08: Shillong
Following a leisurely breakfast we proceed on a full day tour of Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya, where the clouds reside, or the abode of heavens, is what aptly describes this small town – now almost a city. Here, we will visit the various attractions including the Wards Lake, one of the most popular attractions of Shillong, Then, we will visit the Don Bosco Museum where you will get a glimpse of the rich and multi-cultural lifestyles of the indigenous peoples of North East India. (Closed on Sunday), and the magnificent Elephanta Falls which is situated at the outskirts of the main city of Shillong. The unique part of these falls is that, it is a two-tier waterfall set in the dingles of the rocks. Following the tour, we return to the comforts of our resort where the night comes on suddenly and with great stealth. Gazing down the hills, you can witness the mesmerizing sight of millions of fireflies lighting up the mountains. One takes back the image of a charmingly, refreshing place where the orange blossoms vie with the forget-me-nots and tiny children in their blazers walk up the lovely streets.
Overnight at Polo Towers, Shillong (Executive Room – Upgraded) (B)
Day 09: Shillong / Cherrapunji / Shillong (54 Kms – One Way) (04 ½ Hrs Drive)
This morning we will proceed on a day’s excursion to Cherrapunji. If the British could twist their tongue a little, there would have been no Cherrapunji on the face of this planet. Cherrapunji, at an altitude of 3,000-4,607 feet above sea level, is the wettest place on earth, and, would have been known by its original name Sohra, which the British rolled into “Churra,” the name gradually morphing into Cherrapunji. The drive from Shillong is spectacular as you ride through undulating hills and green meadows. Also, you would feel as if you were walking through clouds than traveling in a car. Anywhere the eyes went, there was fog, and the hills were so green that it felt as if the gods had dropped all other hues from their palette when creating Meghalaya. Providing stark contrast were the megaliths’ brown pieces of unadorned rocks standing upright on hilltops, on flat land and in the courtyard of typical traditional houses. These stone memorials standing for hundreds of years are in honor of ancestors. No names are etched on them, no drawings, no epitaphs, just bare rocks and memories. The drive would also offer you opportunities to experience traditional lives and villages unchanged for centuries. Please do not mistake red ribbon-like strips hanging on a clothesline for laundry left to dry. Closer inspection would reveal that these could be slices of meat drying in the sun! You would also notice signs advertising “Genuine Orange Flower Honey,” This is because Cherrapunji is famous for its oranges and honey made from its flowers.
We visit the Thangkharang Park, from where one could see bare outlines of Bangladesh. It is serene and lush, but the park is known more for its greenhouse than anything else. It houses rare orchids and the utterly gorgeous insectivorous pitcher plant. The lady’s slipper orchid gets its name from, well, a lady’s slipper. Its labellum looks so delicate that you want to slip your feet in. And, yes, the pitcher plant; forget everything else and look at the plant that traps insects inside its elegant frame. Some of the pitchers are so big that they could swallow a sparrow! Not too far from here is the Mawsmai Cave, the only fully lit cave in the state. The cave is gorgeous and a miracle of nature. The waterfalls including the Seven Sister Falls, Nahkhalikai Falls, Dainthelen Falls, lakes are a major attraction of the place. You would also enjoy walks along the town making contacts with the locals. Their genuineness will touch you. Following the tour of Cherrapunji, we will drive back to our hotel in Shillong.
Overnight at Polo Towers, Shillong (Executive Room – Upgraded) (B)
Day 10: Shillong / Mawlynnong / Shillong (78 Kms – One Way) (03 Hrs)
Full day excursion to Mawlynnong (known for its cleanliness) The village offers scenic natural beauty, a trek to the living-root bridge at village Riwai. Here you can see natural balancing rock. You will have time to explore a local remote village. Also, visit the Dawki border between India and Bangladesh. Here you can enjoy a country boat ride on Umngotriver (famous for crystal clear water).
Overnight at Polo Towers, Shillong (Executive Room – Upgraded) (B)
Day 11: Shillong / Umium Lake / Kaziranga National Park (227 Kms) (05 Hrs Drive)
After breakfast we drive to Kaziranga National Park. Enroute, we will visit the Umium Lake – a beautiful artificial water reservoir that serves as a popular tourist attraction in Shillong. This mesmeric lake is encompassed by sprawling meadows and undulating hills that are carpeted with lush greenery.
Following the visit, we will continue our drive to Kaziranga.
On our way we will visit Tea Gardens and Plantations.
Upon arrival, check in to Infinity Kaziranga Wilderness.
Overnight at Infinity Kaziranga Wilderness (Luxury Lake Facing Room) (B & D)
Day 12: Kaziranga National Park
Early Morning, we will enjoy elephant safari at sunrise. After breakfast, we proceed for morning and afternoon jungle excursion in the open top vehicle in Kaziranga National Park. The visit in this park enables one to experience the wetland ecosystem with its tall wet grassland and giant plant-eating animals – mega herbivores such as the Rhino and Asian Elephant. The adaptation of various endemic birds and mammals to this unique and constantly changing ecosystem can be witnessed. With over 490 species being recorded in the Park, Kaziranga is an ideal place for bird watching. The visit in the park enables one to concentrate on wildlife activity. Guides and drivers (who have worked with international wildlife film crews, ornithologists and botanists) constantly go into the Park and are best informed about recent sightings and whereabouts. They will help you to plan your activities. The frequent and prolonged sightings of animals such as the Rhino, Wild Buffalo, Swamp Deer and Elephant give fantastic opportunities to the photographer. The lush landscape, which remains green throughout the year, is an ideal backdrop. Behind the resort there are Tea Gardens & Plantations that you can walk and explore with a local staff of your resort
Overnight at Infinity Kaziranga Wilderness (Luxury Lake Facing Room) (B, L & D)
Day 13: Kaziranga National Park / Guwahati (162 Kms) (03 ½ Hrs Drive) Guwahati / Delhi (UK 742 1330 / 1625 Hrs) Delhi / Departure
After breakfast, we will drive to the Guwahati airport to board your flight to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, remain in transit for your onward flight.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B)
END OF SERVICES
We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and
hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India ‘Please come back soon”
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
END OF SERVICES
COST INCLUDES:
– Accommodation based on Twin Sharing Basis
– Meals as per the itinerary only (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch & D – Dinner)
– 02 Jeep safaris & 01 Elephant safari in Kaziranga National Park
– All journeys as per itinerary in a fine air conditioned Toyota Crysta
– Inner India airfares as per the itinerary (subject to change and 100% cancellation
charge)
– Local English speaking guides
– Entrance fees as per the itinerary
– GST Levy, Toll, and Parking
– All driver expenses
– Bottled drinking water for road journeys
COST DOES NOT INCLUDES:
– Camera & video fee to monuments
– Meals other than mention above
– Expenses of personal nature such as laundry, drinks, tips, telephone calls etc
– 3.5% Credit Card Transaction Fees