Far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities along the river banks and serene surroundings, lives remnants of Odisha’s glorious tryst with Buddhism. The contribution of Buddhism in shaping the cultural heritage of Odisha & the latter’s contribution in spreading the religion to Asian countries is a perfect example of symbiotic relationship.
During the 8th Century -10th Century AD under Bhaumakara dynasty rule, Buddhism was considered a state religion of Odisha.In fact it’s believed that the first disciples of Lord Buddha were Tapasu and Bhallika who hailed from the modern day city of Jajpur. Though Buddhism entered Odisha long before the Kalinga War it took wings in the region after the under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka.
Odisha’s most famous poet Jayadeva went on to describe Lord Buddha as one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu in the 12th century AD. The writings of fabled Chinese Traveler Hiuen T’sang just reinforces the glorious chapter of Buddhism in Odisha. The influence of Buddhism can be found in the socio cultural life of the people of Odisha and rich depository of history is reflected in the Buddhist monuments of the state.
Day 01 Arrive Bhubaneshwar (By Flight)
Upon Arrival at Bhubaneswar our representative will Welcome you and Transfer to Hotel.
Rest of the day free for own activities.
Overnight in Bhubaneshwar.
Day 02 Bhubaneshwar
Full day city tour of Bhubaneswar Temples famous for beautiful architecture(One of the Most Important Temple, Mukteswar Temple, influenced by Buddhism) Later Odisha(Orissa) State Museum with lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Budhist archeological sites of Odisha(Orissa) and Khandagiri & Udaygiri Jain Caves of 2nd Century BC.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 03 Bhubaneshwar
Visit Dhauli Famous for Ashokan Rock Edicts and Place where battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Also Visit Peace Pagoda. Later visit Pipili applique works and World heritage site Sun Temple of Konark(Watch the Buddhist influence on this temple) & Famous Jagannath Temple and Back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 04 Bhubaneshwar
Full day Excursion to Lalitigiri(Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) with Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budhha’s relic is available. Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery we have till know, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of sculptors of Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Later visit Udayagiri, Another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Then back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 05 Bhubaneshwar
Full day visit Kayam Hill Buddhist cave and Langudi Giri which one of recent excavation with ruins of Monastery, Stupas and lot of Mahayanic sculptors, Five Dhyani Buddhas. Back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 06 Depart Bhubaneshwar (By Flight)
Transfer to the airport for departure for onward destination.
| City | Night(s) | 5* Hotels |
| Bhubaneshwar | 05 | Mayfair Lagoon |
– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 05 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.
– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.
– Accommodation in good hotels.
– Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
– Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost.
– Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
– A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
– If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
– Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
– In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
– In Asia, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
– While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
– Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
– In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.