Soul of Odisha(9N/10D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Tribal Museum( Close on Monday), Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar Sightseeing – Puri

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Tribal Museum( Close on Monday), Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3: Puri – On to Konark & Raghurajpur

Today morning after breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour to Black Pagoda - Sun Temple at Konark conceived in 13th century as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stand Enthralled by its architectural & sculptural marvels. Visit the Archaeological Museum(Closed on Friday) to experience vast collections of Sculptures, artefacts & more then 250 antiques recovered from present temple. Visit the Fishermen’s Village & experience their pivotal daily life with fishing boat & net. Later drive towards Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings & Odishi & Gotipua dance forms, which are examples of rich craftsmanship & culture. Your tour doesn’t complete without witnessing Jagannath Temple. ( Non Hindus are not allowed into the premises of Temple).

The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, pulled by devotees through the grand road in the famous Rath Yatra in every July. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 4: Puri – Barkul on Chilika - Gopalpur on Sea

Set out by road after early breakfast to explore turquoise Expanse of Chilka. The Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna in winter. Get enthralled by Boat ride with beautiful scenic access. Later proceed to Gopalpur, one of finest beach destination with serene, blue and breathtaking and make you feel like European destination. On arrival check in at hotel & over night stay.

Day 5: Gopalpur on Sea – Taptapani – Jirang- Soura Village- Rayagada

After a refreshing morning having strolled along the serene beach, set out by road along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Drive further to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study.

Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Rayagada. Enroute visit the Aryan tribal village popularly known as Lanjia saura. Explore their life style during hiking of their village. Their main occupation is farming on traditional way as they use the wooden plough, hoe etc. Visit to the Shaman house as well to see the rare mud wall painting. On arrival at Rayagada Check in at Hotel. Overnight stay at Rayagada.

Day 6: Kutia kondh village-Rayagada

Today morning depart early for Kotagad region to meet Kutia kondh tribes who are tattoo faced . These community assembly at their weekly market, also visit their villages. Later drive to Dukum region to make soft trek to different villages like pottery maker village, tribal jewellary maker village,Desia Kondh villages. Back to the hotel at Rayagada for a comfortable stay.or in the basic tent in Bissamcuttcak region.

Day 7: Rayagada - Chatikona – Tribal Musuem- Lamtaput (Wednesday)

Early morning after breakfast drive down to Chatikona to watch the interesting colorful weekly market of Kondh tribes. This tribe is one of the most primitive tribe of the Kondh's they live in the high slopes of the Niyamagiri Hills. These people are horticulturists. They grow fruits like Orange, Pineapple, Banana etc. The male people of this community also wear ear rings, nose rings, and keep their hair as women. Later proceed to Jeypore enroute visiting some villages of Paroja tribes. On arrival at Koraput visit the tribal museum. Check in at hotel. Evening visit to the hilltop Jagannath temple, where the ritual performed on tribal chants . Later drive to Lamtaput. Check in to Desia Eco Resort. Evening enjoy Campfire with Dhemsa tribal dance. Overnight stay at Lamtaput.

Day 8: Lamtaput -Ounkadeli- Jeypore

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest.

You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time.

Free time in the market. Afternoon proceed to Lamtaput area to explore another primitive tribal community the Gdabas. Late afternoon drive back to Jeypore.Overnight at Jeypore.

Day 9: Jeypore- Kunduli- Visakhapatnam

After an early visit Jagannath temple at Koraput, followed by Kunduli weekly market. It is the biggest market of the tribal area where you will find the main concentration of the beautiful Sana Paraja & Mali tribes. Drive towards Visakhapatnam. On arrival check in at Hotel. Afternoon visit Kailasagiri which is a hilltop park in the city of Visakhapatnam that overlooks beaches and forests. Evening is at leisure to stroll at the beach road. Overnight stay at Visakhapatnam.

Day 10: Visakhapatnam – Departure

Today morning after breakfast Later in the evening, leave for the local sightseeing covering Rama Krishna Beach & Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam. It is the first submarine that tuned up into a museum in Asia and second in the World. Later drops at Visakhapatnam airport for your onward journey with sweet memories of holidays. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the heritages in the heartland of India and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us

Odisha at Glance(6N/7D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BCE and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Start your tour by exploring  temples of Bhubaneswar (Parasurameswar,700 AD)  Mukteswar 1000 AD, Lingaraj 1100 AD and Rajarani 1100 AD. Evening stroll down to Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – Hirapur – Dhauli – Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast visit the Jain caves of 2nd century BC. Khandagiri and Udaygiri. Later in the day explore the Tantric Cult 64 Yogini shrine at Hirapur dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Visit Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills a significant symbol of love and peace. It is at Dhauli that Ashoka adopted Buddhism. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3: Bhubaneswar – Ratnagiri – Lalitagiri – Udaygiri – Dhenkanal

Today after breakfast depart for the Diamond triangle of Odisha. Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri & Udaygiri -these trio hills and their sorroundings comprise a remarkable Buddhist monastic complex. Hiuen T’sang the Chinese Pilgrim found it to be the seat of a flourishing Buddhist University called Puspagiri. Extensive ruins of brick pagodas, sculptured stone portals and esoteric Buddhist images testifying its ancient glory, have been unearthed. At Ratangiri two large Monasteries, a huge stupa, Buddhist shrines and several sculptures were surfaced. At Lalitgiri a series of brick pagodas, stone porches, prayer halls and Buddhist images were unearthed. At Udaigiri you can see magnificently carved door jamb of the Vihar and the superbly finished Buddha images of the post-Gupta period & lots of Buddhist sculptures. Afternoon proceed to Dehnkanal. Check in with conventional welcome at Royal Palace. Overnight stay at Dhenkanal

Day 4: Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Dhenkanal

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Overnight stay at Dhenkanal.

Day 5: Dhenkanal – Pipili -Puri

After an early breakfast drive to Puri. Enroute visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda famous for the Ashokan rock edicts dating back to 2nd century B:C, Visit Pipli -The colourful applique Village where you can see the colouful Odishan handicrafts. On arrival at Puri visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Later check into a beach side hotel. Evening free at Leisure. Overnight stay at the Puri.

Day 6: Puri – On to Konark & Ragurajpur

Set out by road along marine drive to experience and enthralled at architecture & sculpture depicted in Sun Temple at Konark. The 13th century Temple conceived as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heavens is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the fishermen’s village. Interact with them to understand the Boat & Net culture. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 7: Puri – Departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport for your onward journey with sweet memories of holidays. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Classic Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us. Wild & Wet Wonders.

Unique Odisha(13N/14D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until set off for surface tour of Odisha Coast along with Bishnupur.

Day 1: Kolkata – Bishnupur

Morning drive about 3 hours to Bishnupur, a town known for its Hindu temples made from local terracotta, such as the pyramid-shaped Rasmancha, established around 1600. Since there is no stone found in the area, the traditional building material for important buildings was brick. Explore the ornate carvings adorn the walls of Jor Bangla Temple. North, Madan Mohan Temple is decorated with scenes from Hindu legends, including the "Mahabharata." Also visit the Bishnupur Museum which houses manuscripts and ancient sculptures. Overnight stay at Bishnupir.

Day 2: Bishnupur – Talasari- On to Udaipur Beach

Today moring drive to Talasari - one of the most tranquil and unspoiled beaches of Odisha. The rows of the Palm trees adds the beauty of the beach, the meandering Subarnarekha river accentuates the visual appeal of the beach by a few notches, the sand dunes and little red crabs lends character to the beach. On arrival check in at hotel. Visit the Udaipur beach as the sea recedes in every afternoon. Rest of the day stroll at the beach. Overnight stay at Talasari.

Day 3: Talasari – Dagara – Chandipur

Early morning visit the fishing hamlets. Later visit mangroves of Bichitrapur. Later depending of low tides drive two hours to Dagara Beach via Baliapal. Dagara Beach near the mouth of Subarnarekha River is one of Odisha's most unspoiled beaches with a wide expanse of sandy coastline. Fenced by long stretches of casuarina trees it is the only beach in Odisha where one can enjoy both sunrise and sunset. The beach is known for its massive concentration of ghost red crabs. Drive towards Chandipur. On arrival check in & overnight stay.

Day 4: Chandipur

After a refreshing morning visit the Krishna temple Khirachora Gopinath in Remuna. Afernoon stroll down the beach backed by green layer of casuarinas groves to observe a rare sight, when the sea recedes into the horizon by anything between 1 km to 5 km twice each day and drifts back slowly to the coastline giving enough time to collect the souvenirs of red starfishes, seashells and drift wood on the exposed sea beds. Overnight stay at Chandipur.

Day 5: Chandipur - Bhitarkanika

Today after breakfast drive to Bhitarkanika and explore a day out with nature at its best. The National park is essentially a network of creeks and canals which are inundated with waters from rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala forming a unique ecosystem. Bhitarkanika is home to the largest congregation of the endangered Salt Water Crocodile in the country.On arrival transfer to Gupti & from there sail the Boat to Dangamal Nature Camp, an amazing resort amidst the thick vegetation and wildlife. Overnight at Nature Camp.

Day 6: Bhitarkanika

Today you board an early morning boat to Ekakula, a spectacular beach that is the part of Bay of Bengal. It is said that the Olive turtles are found here laying eggs. On the way you have a pleasant view of islands and villages that makes a perfect scenic beauty. The breakfast and lunch will be packed on the way and served on time by the travel guides. In the evening, you will be taking a ride back to the Nature Camp for an overnight stay and dinner.

Day 7: Bhitarkanika

After breakfast take a visit to different crocodile spots, bird sanctuaries and trekking towards the hunting tower of ancient king. Post lunch continue to the crocodile breeding center and the Museum. After the amazing visit to the wildlife park, return to the Nature Camp for the dinner and stay.

Day 8: Bhitarkanika – Simlipal

Today morning sail from the nature camp to Gupti & from there drive to Bangriposi. After vehicle permit at Jashipur counter visit Crocodile project, Ramtirtha. Check in at Kumari cottage. Post lunch visit Gudugudia orchid park. Overnight stay Similipal

Day 09: Simlipal

Today morning after breakfast drive to Uski waterfall followed by Joranda & Bareipani waterfall. Have your packed lunch here. Later visit Chahala Salt lake area. Back to resort & overnight stay at Similipal.

Day 10: Simlipal – Bhubaneswar

Today morning post breakfast drive to Bhubaneswar. Entoure visit the typical rural villages and rice farming fields of Odisha. On arrival check in at Hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 11: Bhubaneswar – Mangalajodi –Bhubaneswar

In this winter morning drive to Mangalajodi-A community owned and managed wildlife conservation venture, Mangalajodi Ecotourism is your destination to get a peep into Mother Nature. It’s a village located on the northern banks of Chilika Lake and hosts more than 3,00,000 birds in its marshy waters. Visit to Mangalozodi Eco village to observe Fishing Net weaving & Boat Making process. This is the best example for conservation of natural habitat & Ecology .Take a boat ride to experience the natural beauty of wetland queen. Evening back to Bhubaneswar for overnight stay.

Day 12: Bhubaneswar Sightseeing – Puri

After relaxing morning start your tour by exploring Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Later temple architectures in Old Town including Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘Gem of Odia Architecture’ ) and Rajarani temple. Post lunch visit Buddhist Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills where Emperor Ashoka resorted to Buddhism after Kaling War in 261 B.C. Later visit Hirapur – 64 Yogini shrine dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Enroute visit Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Later Drive to Puri-– The Sacred Land of Yogis, famous for ancient monuments, breathtaking temple architecture, art & craft villages & relaxing Golden Beach. On arrival check in to Hotel. Evening stroll at Beach Road. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 13: Puri – On to Konark & Raghurajpur

Today morning after breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour to Black Pagoda - Sun Temple at Konark conceived in 13th century as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stand Enthralled by its architectural & sculptural marvels. Visit the Archaeological Museum(Closed on Friday) to experience vast collections of Sculptures, artefacts & more then 250 antiques recovered from present temple. Visit the Fishermen’s Village & experience their pivotal daily life with fishing boat & net. Later drive towards Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings & Odishi & Gotipua dance forms, which are examples of rich craftsmanship & culture. Your tour doesn’t complete without witnessing Jagannath Temple. ( Non Hindus are not allowed into the premises of Temple). The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, pulled by devotees through the grand road in the famous Rath Yatra in every July. Overnight stay in Puri

Day 14: Puri –Departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport for your onward journey with sweet memories of holidays. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Wild and Wet Wonders and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Textile Treasures of Odisha(8N/9D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha Crafts Museum also known as Kalabhoomi, which is a museum dedicated to the art and crafts of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2 : Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Konark – Raghurajpur - Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later drive to Alandhua textile villages where the weavers weaving only the traditional wrappers, napkins. Visit Pipili, famous for stitching and hand knitting colorful appliqués used in temples & most of households as well. Take a stroll through the colourful market and proceed further to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill.

Drive along the marine drive to Puri & visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3: Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Dhenkanal

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Back to Dhenkanal Palace. Enroute visit Karamula wood carving & tribal jewellery craft. Overnight at Dehnkanal

Day 4: Dhenkanal - Sambalpur

Today after breakfast drive west towards Sambalpur- the origin place of Sambalpur Saree. Sambalpuri Saree is a traditional handwoven Ikkat saree wherein the warp and the weft are tie-dyed before weaving. The saree is a traditional female outfit in India consisting of a strip of unstitched cloth ranging from four to nine metres. It is known for its incorporation of traditional motifs like shankha (shell), chakra (wheel), phula (flower), all of which have deep symbolism, but the highpoint of these sarees is the traditional craftsmanship of the 'Bandhakala', the Tie-dye art reflected in their intricate weaves, also known as Sambalpuri "Ikkat". On arrival visit the textile markets & cooperative societies. Check in to Hotel. Later visit the unique leaning temple of Huma. Overnight stay at Sambalpul.

Day 5: Sambalpur – Bargarh

Today morning after breakfast visit the Hirakud Dam- The longest dam of the Country. Later visit Samaleswari Temple followed by drive to a decorated belled temple – Ghanteswari, that was pivotal point for sailors who were warned beforehand by its enormous sound of bells which signalled the presence of unfavourable water currents in the Area. By noon drive to Bargarh, famous for its handloom weaving just like its agriculture. They are famous in silk, tussur and cotton weaving. On arrival visit the textile markets & cooperative society. Overnight stay at Bargarh.

Day 6: Bargarh – Barpalli – Sonepur – Bolangir

After an early morning breakfast we will drive to Barapali. Enjoy exploring a small weaving market in the small town of Barapalli. Later drive towards Sagarpali tussar, silk and cotton weaving factory. The purpose to visit Sagarpali is to get a basic idea of design developments on textiles and to see the kind of training that is given to students by the master craftsmento visit the popular tussar, silk weaving art. Then continue towards Balangir. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Balangir.

Day 7: Bolangir - Sonepur - Boudh

After breakfast we drive towards temple town Sonepur to see how natural ingredients are used for dying process. Explore the villages popular for weaving Patta in Tussar and silk. Visit Baidyanathpur village to see the various silk, tussar weaving work and the products. Later drive to Boudh. Check in at hotel & overnight stay

Day 8: Boudh -Olasingh Textile Village – Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast drive towards Olasingh Weaver village, famous for Tussar Silk Fabric. Explore the village by walk, visit their handloom unit with the village leader. Here you will witness also the classical tiger mask dance. Evening drive to Bhubaneswar. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 9: Bhubaneswar departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at airport for your onward journey with sweet memories of holidays. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Textile Treasures of Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Bounties of Odisha (5N/6D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha Crafts Museum also known as Kalabhoomi, which is a museum dedicated to the art and crafts of Odisha. Stroll down to Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – Hirapur – Dhauli – Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast visit the Jain caves of 2nd century BC. Khandagiri and Udaygiri. Later in the day explore the Tantric Cult 64 Yogini shrine at Hirapur dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Visit Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills a significant symbol of love and peace. It is at Dhauli that Ashoka adopted Buddhism. Return back to hotel.. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar

Day 3 : Bhubaneshwar – Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri & Udayagiri

Today post breakfast set out for a full day Excursion to Lalitigiri (Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) it’s Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budha’s relic is available. Later visit Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of the sculptors of the Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Proceed to Udaygiri, another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation.The sites of Ratnagiri-Udayagiri & Lalitgiri was called Pushpagiri and regarded as a place for Kalachakra Tantra of Buddhism and also explores the engraved elephant at Langudi. Later, drive back to Bhubaneswar. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 4 : Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Konark – Raghurajpur – Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later drive to Alandhua textile villages where the weavers weaving only the traditional wrappers, napkins. Visit Pipili, famous for stitching and hand knitting colorful appliqués used in temples & most of households as well. Take a stroll through the colourful market and proceed further to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. Drive along the marine drive to Puri. On arrival check in at hotel. After short relaxation visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 5: Puri – Chilka Lake – Raghurajpur –Puri

Today early morning leave for Satapada at Chilika lake. Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna . Take enjoyable boat trip on the lake to meet Dolphins in nature. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 6: Puri - Departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the Culture of Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Buddhist Path Odisha(6N/7D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha State Museum( Close on Monday) a store house of lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Buddhist archaeological sites of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – LalitGiri – Ratnagiri

Today morning post breakfast check out from hotel and depart for Lalitgiri (Diamond Triangle). 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 Budha's relic is available. Later visit Udayagiri, Another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Overnight at Ratnagiri.

Day 3: Ratnagiri

Morning after breakfast, full day excursion to Ratnagiri. Ratnagiri Buddhist Circuit Odisha is the Largest Buddhist monastery we have till know, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of sculptors of Vajrayan, hundreds of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. it is one of the best places for those who are looking for a place of tranquility where they can feel peace and serenity. Overnight at Ratnagiri.

Day 4 : Ratnagiri – Dhauli – Hirapur- Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later in the day explore the Tantric Cult 64 Yogini shrine at Hirapur dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Visit Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills a significant symbol of love and peace. It is at Dhauli that Ashoka adopted Buddhism. Return back to hotel. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 5 : Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Konark –Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later drive to Alandhua textile villages where the weavers weaving only the traditional wrappers, napkins. Visit Pipili, famous for stitching and hand knitting colorful appliqués used in temples & most of households as well. Take a stroll through the colourful market and proceed further to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. Drive along the marine drive to Puri. Orrival check in at hotel. After short relaxation visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Time permits visit Raghunath Library, one of the oldest Temple Library of India. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 6: Puri – Chilka Lake – Raghurajpur –Puri

Today early morning leave for Satapada at Chilika lake Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest Earnestine water lagoon covers an area of 1100 sq Km with combination of salt and fresh water. The lake is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow sandy ridge, called Ramsar Wetland. For it’s biodiversity, this lake attracts millions migratory bird in winter. It also home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including 225 species of fish and the playful Irrawaddy Dolphin. Boating to Mouth Of Chilika Lake: the point where see meets the lake. Later visit Raghurajpur heritage village, situated amidst groves of coconut, palm, mango and jack fruit, the main village has two streets with over 120 houses, most decorated with mural paintings, where the painters reside and practice their Pattachitra craft, besides many others that practices throughout the village, including traditional masks, stone idols, paper Mache, sculptures, and wooden toys. Witness Gotipua dance, is a traditional dance form in the state of Odisha, India, and the precursor of Odissi classical dance. It has been performed in Odisha for centuries by young boys, who dress as young women to praise Jagannath and Krishna. The dance is executed by a group of boys who perform acrobatic figures inspired by the life of Radha and Krishna. Overnight stay at Puri

Day 7: Puri- Departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Buddhist Path of Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Buddhist Trail of Odisha(6N/7D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha State Museum( Close on Monday) a store house of lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Buddhist archaeological sites of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – LalitGiri – Ratnagiri

Today morning post breakfast check out from hotel and depart for Lalitgiri (Diamond Triangle). 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 Budha's relic is available. Later visit Udayagiri, Another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Overnight at Ratnagiri.

Day 3: Ratnagiri - Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast, full day excursion to Ratnagiri. Ratnagiri Buddhist Circuit Odisha is for sure the best place. Needless to say, Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery we have till know, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of sculptors of Vajrayan, hundreds of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. It is one of the best places for those who are looking for a place of tranquility where they can feel peace and serenity. Later drive to Bhubaneswar to visit Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hill- a significant symbol of love and peace. It is at Dhauli that Ashoka adopted Buddhism. On arrival check in to Hotel. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 4 : Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Konark –Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later drive to Alandhua textile villages where the weavers weaving only the traditional wrappers, napkins. Visit Pipili, famous for stitching and hand knitting colorful appliqués used in temples & most of households as well. Take a stroll through the colourful market and proceed further to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. Drive along the marine drive to Puri. Orrival check in at hotel. After short relaxation visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Time permits visit Raghunath Library, one of the oldest Temple Library of India. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 5: Puri – Raghurajpur – Taptapani

Today morning after breakfast visit Raghurajpur heritage village, situated amidst groves of coconut, palm, mango and jack fruit, the main village has two streets with over 120 houses, most decorated with mural paintings, where the painters reside and practice their Pattachitra craft, besides many others that practices throughout the village, including traditional masks, stone idols, paper Mache, sculptures, and wooden toys. Witness Gotipua dance, is a traditional dance form in the state of Odisha, India, and the precursor of Odissi classical dance. It has been performed in Odisha for centuries by young boys, who dress as young women to praise Jagannath and Krishna. The dance is executed by a group of boys who perform acrobatic figures inspired by the life of Radha and Krishna. Later drive on a scenic road to Taptapani along greeneries for the healing touch of Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Check in at Hotel & Over night stay at Taptapani.

Day 6: Taptapani – Jirang – Rambha

After a refreshing morning drive to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Later drive to Rambha. Check in to Hotel overlooking Chilika lake- Asia’s largest Earnestine water lagoon covers an area of 1100 sq Km with combination of salt and fresh water. The lake is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow sandy ridge, called Ramsar Wetland. For it’s biodiversity, this lake attracts millions migratory bird in winter. Evening boating at the lake makes you feel like lost in paradise. Overnight stay in Rambha.

Day 7: Rambha - Bhubaneswar Departure

At the Sun rise get yourself refreshed with magnificent view of Chlika. Later after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Buddhist Trail of Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Nature’s Treasure Tour(19N/20D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2 : Bhubaneswar

Today morning after breakfast explore the Old Town temple architectures. Visit Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘pearl of Odia construction modeling’ ) and Rajarani Temple. After lunch visit Odisha Crafts Museum also known as Kalabhoomi, which is a museum dedicated to the art and crafts of Odisha. Overnight at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3 : Bhubaneshwar – Ratnagiri,Lalitgiri & Udayagiri- Dhenkanal

Today post breakfast set out for a full day Excursion to Lalitigiri (Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) it’s Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budha’s relic is available. Later visit Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of the sculptors of the Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Proceed to Udaygiri, another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation.The sites of Ratnagiri-Udayagiri & Lalitgiri was called Pushpagiri and regarded as a place for Kalachakra Tantra of Buddhism and also explores the engraved elephant at Langudi. Later  set out by road to  Dhenkanal . Check in with conventional welcome at Royal Palace. Overnight stay at Dhenkanal.

Day 4 : Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Angul

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Drive to Angul. Enroute visit Karamula wood carving & tribal jewellery craft. On arrival check in at Hotel. Overnight stay at Angul.

Day 5 : Anugul – Tikarapada

Morning after breakfast drive to Satkosia. Satkosia boasts a stunning gorge cradling the Mahanadi River and offers a plethora of sightings for the nature enthusiast. It is a natural habitat to two of the most endangered fresh water crocodiles the gharial, mugger and home to many elephants, leopards, deer and its flagship species, the tiger. On arrival Check in at Nature Camp Overnight stay.

Day 6 : Tikarapada

Morning take the vessel journey in Satkosia Gorge to investigate the captivating magnificence of nature. While there you can come across plenty of Mugger and Gharial basking along the sand banks. Afternoon visit Labangi famous for trekking. Overnight stay at Tikarapada.

Day 7 : Satkosia – Bhitarkanika

Today morning after breakfast drive to Rajnagar and take the vessel journey to Dangamal-center of the haven (45 minutes grand voyage from Khola-entrance point). Getting a charge out of the Mangrove woods, crocodiles and pure deer by pontoon journey. Land at Dangmal and Check in at the Nature Camp. Evening with some Tea/espresso and unwind with the jeopardized deer. Overnight stay at Bhitakanika.

Day 8 : Bhitarkanika

After arefreshing morning take a visit to different crocodile spots, bird sanctuaries and trekking towards the hunting tower of ancient king. Post lunch continue to the crocodile breeding center and the Museum. After the amazing visit to the wildlife park, return to the Nature Camp for a warming campfire & dinner.Overnight stay at Bhitarakanika.

Day 9 : Bhitarkanika – Chandipur

Morning after breakfast sail backe to Khola ( the passageway indicate ) . From there drive towards Chandipur beach, renowned for the Vanishing Sea. On arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon stroll down the beach backed by green layer of casuarinas groves to observe a rare sight, when the sea recedes into the horizon by anything between 1 km to 5 km twice each day and drifts back slowly to the coastline giving enough time to collect the souvenirs of red starfishes, seashells and drift wood on the exposed sea beds. Overnight stay at Chandipur.

Day 10: Chandipur – Panchalingeshwar- Chandipur

Today morning after breakfast you can visit Panchalingeswar on the grand mountain Nilagiri. Extremely quiet & calm encompassing will provide for you the true serenity at the waterfall and witness the Pancha Lingam on the peak. On the way back visit the Jagannath Temple (Non Hindus are not allowed inside the temple) and the Palace of Nilagiri and the Khirachora Gopinath Temple of Remuna. Don’t miss the opportunity to have the special Prasad here named Khira Bhogo prepared from the milk. Overnight stay at Chandipur .

Day 11 : Chandipur – Similipal Park

Today morning sail from the nature camp to Gupti & from there drive to Bangriposi. After vehicle permit at Jashipur counter visit Crocodile project, Ramtirtha. Check in at Kumari cottage. Post lunch visit Gudugudia orchid park. Overnight stay Similipal.

Day 12: Simlipal

Today morning after breakfast drive to Uski waterfall followed by Joranda & Bareipani waterfall. Have your packed lunch here. Later visit Chahala Salt lake area. Back to resort & overnight stay at Similipal.

Day 13: Simlipal – Bhubaneswar

Today morning post breakfast drive to Bhubaneswar. Entoure visit the typical rural villages and rice farming fields of Odisha. On arrival check in at Hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 14: Bhubaneswar – Hirapur – Dahauli- Pipili – Puri

After relaxing morning start your tour by exploring temple architectures in Old Town including Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘Gem of Odia Architecture’ ) and Rajarani temple. Post lunch visit Buddhist Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills where Emperor Ashoka resorted to Buddhism after Kaling War in 261 B.C. Later visit Hirapur – 64 Yogini shrine dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Enroute visit Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Later Drive to Puri-– The Sacred Land of Yogis, famous for ancient monuments, breathtaking temple architecture, art & craft villages & relaxing Golden Beach. On arrival check in to Hotel. Evening stroll at Beach Road. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 15: Puri – On to Konark & Raghurajpur

Today morning after breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour to Black Pagoda - Sun Temple at Konark conceived in 13th century as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stand Enthralled by its architectural & sculptural marvels. Visit the Archaeological Museum(Closed on Friday) to experience vast collections of Sculptures, artefacts & more then 250 antiques recovered from present temple. Visit the Fishermen’s Village & experience their pivotal daily life with fishing boat & net. Later drive towards Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings & Odishi & Gotipua dance forms, which are examples of rich craftsmanship & culture. Your tour doesn’t complete without witnessing Jagannath Temple. ( Non Hindus are not allowed into the premises of Temple). The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, pulled by devotees through the grand road in the famous Rath Yatra in every July. Overnight stay in Puri.

Day 16 : Puri – Chilka Lake – Raghurajpur –Puri

Today early morning leave for Satapada at Chilika lake. Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna . Take enjoyable boat trip on the lake to meet Dolphins in nature. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 17 : Puri -Gopalpur on Sea

After breakfast, drive to Gopalpur - on – Sea, a quiet and charming sea resort along the Bay of Bengal. It offers secluded environment and magnificent sun, surf and sand for most of the year. On arrival check in to Hotel.Rest of the day at leisure at the beach. Overnight stay at  hotel.

Day 18 : Gopalpur on Sea – Taptapani Hot Spring - Jirang

After a refreshing morning having strolled along the serene beach, set out by road along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Drive further to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Gopalpur. Overnight stay at Gopalpur.

Day 19 : Gopalpur on Sea - Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast drive to Bhubaneswar. En route visit the textile weaving at Olasingh village. Visit Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves - an excellent example of Jain Cave Art, built by Kharavela around 1st - 2nd Century BC for Jain monks. Later Explore Odisha Crafts Museum also known as Kalabhoomi, which is a museum dedicated to the art and crafts of Odisha. Evening visit Sriram Temple & Ekamra Haat. Overnight stay at  hotel.

Day 20 : Bhubaneswar -Departure

At the Sun rise get yourself refreshed strolling along the beach. Later after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Buddhist Trail of Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Treasures of North & West Odisha(19N/20D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BCE and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Start your tour by exploring  temples of Bhubaneswar (Parasurameswar,700 AD)  Mukteswar 1000 AD, Lingaraj 1100 AD and Rajarani 1100 AD. Evening stroll down to Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar- Nuapatna – Sadeibarini- Bhubaneswar

Morning post breakfast proceed to Nuapatna. The weavers of this village are a class by themselves. Their TIE & DYE patterns popularly known as . IKAT. you can watch all the steps of Ikat Bandha. We will continue our tour till Sadeibarini famous for it’ s Dokra metal work village. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Bhubaneswar – Lalitgiri – Ratnagiri

Today morning post breakfast check out from hotel and depart for Lalitgiri (Diamond Triangle). 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 Budha's relic is available. Later visit Udayagiri, Another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Then visit Ratnagiri - flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of sculptors of Vajrayan, hundreds of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. It is one of the best places for those who are looking for a place of tranquility where they can feel peace and serenity. Overnight at Ratnagiri.

Day 4: Ratnagiri - Bhitarakanika

Today after breakfast drive to Bhitarkanika and explore a day out with nature at its best. The National park is essentially a network of creeks and canals which are inundated with waters from rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala forming a unique ecosystem. Bhitarkanika is home to the largest congregation of the endangered Salt Water Crocodile in the country.On arrival transfer to Gupti & from there sail the Boat to Dangamal Nature Camp, an amazing resort amidst the thick vegetation and wildlife. Overnight at Nature Camp.

Day 5 : Bhitarkanika – Chandipur

After a refreshing morning take a visit to different crocodile spots, bird sanctuaries and the crocodile breeding center and the Museum. Later sail backe to Khola ( the passageway indicate ) . From there drive towards Chandipur beach, renowned for the Vanishing Sea. On arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon stroll down the beach backed by green layer of casuarinas groves to observe a rare sight, when the sea recedes into the horizon by anything between 1 km to 5 km twice each day and drifts back slowly to the coastline giving enough time to collect the souvenirs of red starfishes, seashells and drift wood on the exposed sea beds. Overnight stay at Chandipur.

Day 6 : Chandipur – Similipal Park

Today morning sail from the nature camp to Gupti & from there drive to Bangriposi. After vehicle permit at Jashipur counter visit Crocodile project, Ramtirtha. Check in at Kumari cottage. Post lunch visit Gudugudia orchid park. Overnight stay Similipal.

Day 7: Simlipal

Today morning after breakfast drive to Uski waterfall followed by Joranda & Bareipani waterfall. Have your packed lunch here. Later visit Chahala Salt lake area. Back to resort & overnight stay at Similipal

Day 8: Similipal- Keonjhar

The district headquarters town, Keonjhar is the gateway to one of the most scenic destinations in India. Worth seeing here are the Vishnu and Jagannath Temple, as are the Siddha Kali and Panchabati shrines.

Day 9: Keonjhar- Khiching-Keonjhar

Today after breakfast drive to Khiching to witness the well-known Khichakeswari Temple. Later drive back to Keonjhar. On arrival visit Sana Ghgara Water fall. Check in at Hotel. Evening stroll at the local market. Overnight stay at Keonjhar.

Day 10: Keonjhar -Sambalpur

Today morning after breakfast drive towards Sambalpur ,famous for its tie and dye textiles; folk dance and music; and also for the Hirakund Dam, one of the longest mainstream dams in the world. Sambalpur is the heart of an Ikat Weaving District, On arrival check in at hotel. Later buy explore the main bazaar and government co-operative shops to buy some fabric. Overnight stay at Sambalpur.

Day 11: Sambalpur- Ushakothi-Sambalpur

Today morning after breakfast visit Hiraku dam. Later visit Ushakothi that lies in close proximity of the dam .Apart from the Asian elephants which happens to be the prized inhabitant, the sanctuary is home to panthers, tigers, spotted deer, wild boar, snakes and hyenas. Capture the beauty of the wilderness in your camera lenses atop the two watchtowers or take a safari to explore the deep interiors. Afternoon visit decorated belled temple – Ghanteswari, that was pivotal point for sailors who were warned beforehand by its enormous sound of bells which signalled the presence of unfavourable water currents in the Area. Evening visit Samaleswari temple. Overnight stay at Sambalpur.

Day 12: Sambalpur-Barpali-Baragada-Bolangir

Morning post breakfast leave for Barpali, one of the best silk and cotton weavers village, there the master craftsman best known Tassar Silk weaver, will speak you, about the above related activities and also they will speak you about Ikat technique. The village is one of the biggest weaver village of Odisha and you will discover and feel reality of old weaves here. Later leave for Bolangir and on the way visit some more textiles villages. Overnight stay at hotel in Bolangir.

Day 13: Bolangir - Sagarpali-Sonepur – Bolangir

Morning drive to Sagarpali to visit Koselewar weaving factory (Silk & Cotton). Here you will get the idea of design development, weaving, processing and mode of training you will also visit some houses, where they make JALLA work. Proceed to Sonepur you will visit to master craftsman, especially to watch the best natural lying process ingredients, traditional designs with scripts in fabrics further visit the pocket loom as well. Overnight stay at Bolangir.

Day 14: Bolangir-Phulbani

Morning post breakfast leave for Phulbani, the headquarters town of Kandhamal district, has varieties of attractions with a rich tribal culture and colorful flora & fauna for the tourists. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 15: Phulbani – Baliguda

The antiquity of Odisha is endorsed by her ancient people who continue to inhabit their traditional dwelling places in remote areas in the deep forests and hilly interiors. Steeped in the mystery that surrounds their ancient ways, the Kutiya Kondh tribes continue to be a source of deep interest not only for anthropologists and sociologists but also for numerous tourists who flock to Odisha in search of the exotic mystique of their relatively unexplored state.

Day 16: Baliguda – Satakosia

Today morning set off towards Satkosia or the Gorge Sanctuary. TheSatkosia Sands Resort at Badmul is a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers and those who seek solitude.Surrounded by the jungles of Satkosia Tiger Reserve, “Satkosia Sands Resort” at Badmul is located on the foothills of majestic mountains facing the Satkosia Gorge where the magnificent Mahanadi meanders through the golden sand bars. On arrival check in at resort. After a short relaxation, experience the chirping Birds, the rarest of nature's avian beauties, get up close and personal with nature on organized treks, Soak in leisure and breathtaking views of Gorge while Boating. In the evening enjoy & enthralled by performers of Folk dance. Overnight stay at Badmul.

Day 17: Satakosia – Bhubaneswar

Today morning after breakfast drive towards Bhubaeswar. Enroute visit Khandagiri & Udaygiri Jain Caves. Then explore Odisha Crafts Museum also known as Kalabhoomi, which is a museum dedicated to the art and crafts of Odisha. Proceed further to Tribal Museum ( Monday Closed) Which houses tribal costumes, jewelry, art, household objects, musical instruments collected all. It is also revered as ‘Museum of Man’ and is one of the popular tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar. The museum includes 5 life-sized tribal huts built by the local tribal artists. These dwellings represent the tribes of Juang, Santal, Saora, Gadaba, and Kandha. Along with that, the museum also includes 5 halls that display a great assortment of arts and artefacts depicting the tribal lifestyle. In total, there are more than 1900 artefacts that give a great insight into tribal people, their culture, and way of living. Check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 18: Bhubaneswar – Pipili – Konark –Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Later drive to Alandhua textile villages where the weavers weaving only the traditional wrappers, napkins. Visit Pipili, famous for stitching and hand knitting colorful appliqués used in temples & most of households as well. Take a stroll through the colourful market and proceed further to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. Drive along the marine drive to Puri. Orrival check in at hotel. After short relaxation visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Time permits visit Raghunath Library, one of the oldest Temple Library of India. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 19: Puri – Chilka Lake – Raghurajpur –Puri

Today early morning leave for Satapada at Chilika lake Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest Earnestine water lagoon covers an area of 1100 sq Km with combination of salt and fresh water. The lake is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow sandy ridge, called Ramsar Wetland. For it’s biodiversity, this lake attracts millions migratory bird in winter. It also home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including 225 species of fish and the playful Irrawaddy Dolphin. Boating to Mouth Of Chilika Lake: the point where see meets the lake. Later visit Raghurajpur heritage village, situated amidst groves of coconut, palm, mango and jack fruit, the main village has two streets with over 120 houses, most decorated with mural paintings, where the painters reside and practice their Pattachitra craft, besides many others that practices throughout the village, including traditional masks, stone idols, paper Mache, sculptures, and wooden toys. Witness Gotipua dance, is a traditional dance form in the state of Odisha, India, and the precursor of Odissi classical dance. It has been performed in Odisha for centuries by young boys, who dress as young women to praise Jagannath and Krishna. The dance is executed by a group of boys who perform acrobatic figures inspired by the life of Radha and Krishna. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 20: Puri – Bhubaneswar Departure

Today morning after breakfast drop at Bhubaneswar airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Vibrant Treasures of North & West Odisha and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Treasures of Odisha and Chhattisgarh(12 N/13D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Tribal Museum( Close on Monday), Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar Sightseeing – Puri

After relaxing morning our Guide meets you at hotel Lobby. Start your tour by exploring temple architectures in Old Town including Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘Gem of Odia Architecture’ ) and Rajarani temple. Post lunch visit Hirapur – 64 Yogini shrine dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Later Visit Buddhist Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills where Emperor Ashoka resorted to Buddhism after Kaling War in 261 B.C. Proceed to Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Drive further to Puri-– The Sacred Land of Yogis, famous for ancient monuments, breathtaking temple architecture, art & craft villages & relaxing Golden Beach. On arrival check in to Hotel. Evening stroll at Beach Road. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 3: Puri – On to Konark & Raghurajpur

Today morning after breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour to Black Pagoda - Sun Temple at Konark conceived in 13th century as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stand Enthralled by its architectural & sculptural marvels. Visit the Archaeological Museum(Closed on Friday) to experience vast collections of Sculptures, artefacts & more then 250 antiques recovered from present temple. Visit the Fishermen’s Village & experience their pivotal daily life with fishing boat & net. Later drive towards Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings & Odishi & Gotipua dance forms, which are examples of rich craftsmanship & culture. Your tour doesn’t complete without witnessing Jagannath Temple. ( Non Hindus are not allowed into the premises of Temple). The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, pulled by devotees through the grand road in the famous Rath Yatra in every July.

Day 4: Puri – Barkul on Chilika - Gopalpur on Sea

Set out by road after early breakfast to explore turquoise Expanse of Chilka. The Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna in winter. Get enthralled by Boat ride with beautiful scenic access. Later proceed to Gopalpur, one of finest beach destination with serene, blue and breathtaking and make you feel like European destination. On arrival check in to Hotel & over night stay.

Day 5: Gopalpur on Sea – Taptapani – Jirang- Soura Village- Rayagada

After a refreshing morning having strolled along the serene beach, set out by road along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Drive further to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Rayagada. Enroute visit the Aryan tribal village popularly known as Lanjia saura. Explore their life style during hiking of their village. Their main occupation is farming on traditional way as they use the wooden plough, hoe etc. Visit to the Shaman house as well to see the rare mud wall painting. On arrival at Rayagada Check in at Hotel. Overnight at Rayagada.

Day 6: Rayagada - Chatikona - Koraput - Jeypore (Must Be Wednesday)

Early morning after breakfast drive down to Chatikona to watch the interesting colorful weekly market of Kondh tribes. This tribe is one of the most primitive tribe of the Kondh's they live in the high slopes of the Niyamagiri Hills. These people are horticulturists. They grow fruits like Orange, Pineapple, Banana etc. The male people of this community also wear ear rings, nose rings, and keep their hair as women. Later proceed to Jeypore enroute visiting some villages of Paroja tribes. Arrive late evening and check in at the hotel and overnight at Jeypore.

Day 7: Jeypore-Ounkadeli- Lamptaput- Jeypore

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli - 70 km to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest. You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time. Free time in the market. Afternoon proceed to Lamtaput area to explore another primitive tribal community the Gdabas - you can watch the most colorful tribal dance call DHEMSA. Late afternoon drive back to Jeypore.Overnight at Jeypore.

Day 8: Jeypore- Kunduli- Kotpad -Jagdalpur

After an early visit Jagannath temple at Koraput, followed by Kunduli weekly market. It is the biggest market of the tribal area where you will find the main concentration of the beautiful Sana Paraja & Mali tribes. By noon drive to Kotpad known for unique fabric out of its rich vegetable dyed reds, browns and blacks with motifs woven by the Mirgan community. On arrival at Jagdalpur check in at Jungle Resort. Overnight at Jagdapur.

Day 9: Jagdalpur

After breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour of Jagdalpur. Visit the Anthropological Museum which is known to present an interesting insight into Bastar’s tribal culture. Later visit the Chitrakoot waterfall, Bastar’s very own ‘Nigara’ on the Indravati River. Visit some of the local Bison-Horn Maria tribe, renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dancing. Stroll around Kumhapara for wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, terracota, bell metal items, wrought iron items and cotton fabrics( Kosa sari etc). Evening get entertained by a performance of the tribal people, before returning to your hotel. Overnight at Jagdalpur.

Day 10: Jagdalpur – Kondagaon – Kanker

Today after breakfast drive towards Kondagaon to visit matel casting craftmen at their village. Then after drive towards Muria Tribe village and camping near at their Gotul Dormitory house. Continue your tour to Kanker. Check in with conventional welcome at Kanker Palace. Evening enjoy the cultural programme, where the royal family joins to impart their experiences into the life of the locale. Over night at Kanker.

Day 11: Kanker – Kawardha

Start the day with a drive to Kawardha -a city known for the “Temple of Bhoramdeo.” Scenically located on the fringes of the Maikal hills, this rustic tribal region of Kawardha has a rich cultural heritage. At the Bhoramdeo Temple soulful poetry comes alive in architecture through perfect blend of religious and erotic sculptures. On arrival check in to your heritage Palace. Overnight at Kawardha.

Day 12: Kawardha

After a relaxing morning take a daylong tour of Radha Krishna Temple , Saroda Reservoir, the architect's delight Bhoramdeo Temples Group & Lohara Bavli. Also take a tour to Gond and Baiga villages of tribe this would offer you a fair idea of the Chhattisgarh's tribes. Gond is a Nomadic Tribe. This is one group who believes in Hindu Religion & they have different sub divisions in the group. They have the Ghotul System where the men & women live separately in this Dormitory called Ghotul. Once the marriage is decided, they go out of Ghotul & start their life in the village with other Elder members. This society accepts, Remarriage, Widow marriage & divorce. In this society like other Tribal Groups, they pay a heavy price for the Bride as a respect to women power in the family. Evening back to Palace. Overnight at Kawardha.

Day 13: Kawardha – Raipur Departure

Today is the day to bid farewell of your Treasure tour. Post breakfast drive to Raipur. Vist Mahant Ghasidas Museum to witness the extensive collection of artifacts that date from the 2nd to the 10th century. Many of these artifacts have been found from the excavations in the surrounding areas of Chhattisgarh. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore incredible India with us.

Exotic Central India(17N/18D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Visakhapatnam.

Day 1: Vishakhapatnam – Jeypore (Wednesday)

On arrival at Visakhapatnam Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and get you introduce with your Guide. At the outset drive towards Jeypore- the south most gateway of Odisha. Enroute visit Buddhist sites of Thotlakunda and Bojannakonda. Later proceed to Jeypore. On arrival check in to hotel. Overnight stay at Jeypore.

Day 2: Jeypore – Ounkadeli – Jagdalpur

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli - 70 km to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest. You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time. By noon drive to Kotpad known for unique fabric out of its rich vegetable dyed reds, browns and blacks with motifs woven by the Mirgan community. On arrival at Jagdalpur check in at Jungle Resort. Overnight at Jagdapur.

Day 3: Jagdalpur

After breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour of Jagdalpur. Visit the Anthropological Museum which is known to present an interesting insight into Bastar’s tribal culture. Later visit the Chitrakoot waterfall, Bastar’s very own ‘Nigara’ on the Indravati River. Visit some of the local Bison-Horn Maria tribe, renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dancing. Stroll around Kumhapara for wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, terracota, bell metal items, wrought iron items and cotton fabrics( Kosa sari etc). Evening get entertained by a performance of the tribal people, before returning to your resort. Overnight at Jagdalpur.

Day 4: Jagdalpur

Post breakfast, head on towards the village of Muria tribe in Narayanpur Murias, another major sub-castes of the Gonds, are found in the Narayanpur and Kondagaon Tehsils of Bastar district. Unlike Marias who live in isolation deep into the dense forests, the Murias live in plains and are comparatively more civilized than the primitive Marias. Get along with them to learn about their lifestyle and practices. The Muria people work together and cultivate vegetables, lentils and others on their own. Enjoy the dance of Muria tribal people and later, leave for the resort. Overnight stay at Jagdalpur.

Day 5: Jagdalpur – Kondagaon – Kanker

After having breakfast in the resort, drive towards Kanker en route visiting Kondagaon. Explore the tribal craft works of Terracotta, Bell metal and wrought iron. Later, take a visit to the weekly market of Narayanpur ( Sunday). Reach Kanker and Check in at Hotel. Over night at Kanker.

Day 6: Kanker – Bahigaon

Post breakfast, travel around the exotic places of Kanker such as the Royal heritage palace. At some distance from there, head towards the village of Bahigaon. There you will experience the traditions of Muria and enjoy their Deer horn bison Dance. Return to Kanker and take rest overnight.

Day 7: Kanker – Rajim – Bhoramdeo

Today mornig after breakfast, drive towards Rajim to visit the marvellous temples and other exquisite shrines. Further, proceed towards Bhoramdeo and check in at hotel. After refreshment, explore the grand Bhoramdeo shiva temple-11th century AD. Overnight stay in Bhoramdeo.

Day 8: Bhoramdeo

After having breakfast, take the full day visit to village of Baiga tribes. Observe their typical livelihood and working lifestyle. They depend on coarse food like Kodo, Kutki, Pej and so on. They practice shifting cultivation in the areas of forest. You will visit the Bodla weekly market. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay at Bhoramdeo.

Day 9: Bhoromdeo –Chilpi Market- Kanha

Morning after breakfast visit the weekly market at Chilpi. This Group lives in the area around Kawardha closer to the border of Kanha National Park. The women of this group tatoos their Legs completely & partly their Hands. This group's life style is very similar to the other Sub Groups of Gond. Huge Rings are used by the women as well as coin neck beads are the favorite of this group. Post lunch leave for Kanha which is approximately takes a little more than an hour from Bhoramdeo. On arrival check in at a jungle lodge and then take an excursion of this popular national park. Spend the overnight in Jungle lodge. Kanha National Park abounds in meadows or maidans which are basically open grasslands that have sprung up in fields of abandoned villages, evacuated to make way for the animals. Kanha meadow is one such example. There are many species of grass recorded at Kanha some of which are important for the survival of Barasingha (Cervus duvauceli branderi). Dense forested zones with good crown cover has abundant species of climbers, shrubs and herbs flourishing in the understory. Aquatic plants in numerous "tal" (lakes) are life line for migratory and wetland species of birds. The park has a significant population of Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, the sloth bear, Barasingha and Indian wild dog.

Day 10: Kanha National Park

Early morning explore the park with Jeep Safari int Kanha National Park. After at leisurely day with park facilities & sumptuous meals at the resort afternoon ready for another thrilling game drive. Dinner and Overnight stat at Kanha National Park.

Day 11: Kanha – Satpura

Today after early breakfast, you sets off towards Satpura which is a long way journey of over 400 kilometers. On arrival at Satpura check in at hotel and spend the leisure time. Later, enjoy the dinner. Overnight stay at resort in Satpura National Park.

Day 12: Satpura

Wake up early in the morning and proceed for Satpura national park safari. Do morning & evening safari drives. Here safari begins from Madhai entrance gate which is a small village on the bank of Denwa river. Here 3 types of safaris are offered to guests, varying in terms of safari duration and areas covered. Satpura national park offers more number of jungle activities to do in compare to other popular national parks of Madhya Pradesh state. Here we can do boat-ride, night safari, walking safari, full-day safari etc. If you are doing safari, then you will must get a boat-ride on river as safari begins after crossing the Denwa backwater. Overnight at resort in Satpura National Park.

Day 13: Satpura – Bhimbetka – Bhojpur – Bhopal

Today after breakfast leave for Bhopal. En route visit Bhimbetka and Bhojpur. The place of Bhimbetka is renowned for the world heritage site due to the rock paintings and shelters in there. Later, explore some of the archeological and religious places of interest in Bhojpur. Visit the remains of magnificent Shiva Temple and Cyclopean dam dated 1010-53 A.D. After reaching in Bhopal, check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Bhopal.

Day 14: Bhopal

After a relaxing night after breakfast; take an excursion tour of Sanchi where the famous Stupa is situated. Visit the Buddhist Vihar dated back to the 3rd century. Observe the aesthetic sculptures, carvings and inscriptions on several structures. Overnight stay at Bhopal.

Day 15: Bhopal – Ujjain

Morning after breakfast check out from the hotel and drive towards Ujjain. The ancient city of Ujjain is situated at the banks of Kshipra River. Check into a hotel and then, take a tour of the holy places in Ujjain like ISKCON temple, Mahakeleswara Temple and caves of Bhartrihari. Overnight stay at Ujjain.

Day 16: Ujjain – Omkareswar – Maheswar

Today morning post breakfast, drive towards Omkareswar to visit the famous temple of “Jyotirlinga” near the shores of Narmada River. Further, head towards Maheswar and visit the Lord Shiva temple. You can observe the finest Maheswari cotton sarees too. Overnight stay at Maheswar.

Day 17: Maheswar – Mandu – Indore

Today morning after breakfast, head towards Indore en route visiting the city of Mandu. Take a tour of the historical monuments here like the Buland Darwaza, Jahaj Mahal, Pavilion of Rani Rupmati and Hindola Mahal. After reaching Indore, check into the hotel and rest Overnight stay at Indore.

Day 18: Indore – Departure

Today is the day to bid a farewell to your Exotic Central India tour. Morning free at Leisure. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the natural beauty, indigenous culture & hospitality of the region and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Royal Heritage Tour(20N/21D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BCE and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Start your tour by exploring  temples of Bhubaneswar (Parasurameswar,700 AD)  Mukteswar 1000 AD, Lingaraj 1100 AD and Rajarani 1100 AD. Evening stroll down to Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – Hirapur – Dhauli – Dhenkanal

Morning after breakfast visit the Jain caves of 2nd century BC. Khandagiri and Udaygiri. Later in the day explore the Tantric Cult 64 Yogini shrine at Hirapur dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Visit Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills a significant symbol of love and peace. It is at Dhauli that Ashoka adopted Buddhism. Later  set out by road to  Dhenkanal . Check in with conventional welcome at Royal Palace. Overnight stay at Dhenkanal.

Day 3: Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Dhenkanal

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Back to Dhenkanal Palace. Enroute visit Karamula wood carving & tribal jewellery craft. Overnight at Dehnkanal.

Day 4: Dhenkanal – Ratnagiri – Lalitagiri – Udaygiri – Choudwar

Depart after breakfast for the Diamond triangle of Odisha. Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri & Udaygiri -these trio hills and their sorroundings comprise a remarkable Buddhist monastic complex. Hiuen T’sang the Chinese Pilgrim found it to be the seat of a flourishing Buddhist University called Puspagiri. Extensive ruins of brick pagodas, sculptured stone portals and esoteric Buddhist images testifying its ancient glory, have been unearthed. At Ratangiri two large Monasteries, a huge stupa, Buddhist shrines and several sculptures were surfaced. At Lalitgiri a series of brick pagodas, stone porches, prayer halls and Buddhist images were unearthed. At Udaigiri you can see magnificently carved door jamb of the Vihar and the superbly finished Buddha images of the post-Gupta period & lots of Buddhist sculptures. Afternoon back to Chaudwar. Check in to Kila Dalijoda Heritage Homestay. Experience Angeling, Sports Fishing, Cycling & Nature Walk. Overnight stay at Choudwar.

Day 5: Choudwar-Pipili- Puri

Morning is at leisure to opt out nature walk, cycling & angeling. Post lunch drive to Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Later drive to Puri a vibrant holy place of India. The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, roll down in the famous annual Rath Yatra, now a day’s known celebration at all across the globe. On arrival check in at Hotel. Overnight at Puri.

Day 6: Puri – On to Konark & Ragurajpur

Set out by road along marine drive to experience and enthralled at architecture & sculpture depicted in Sun Temple at Konark. The 13th century Temple conceived as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heavens is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the fishermen’s village. Interact with them to understand the Boat & Net culture. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 7: Puri -Parikud

Your destination today is the lovely Island of Chilika lake- Parikud. On arrival check in at Royal home stay at Parikud. The Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna in winter. Sail the lake to explore the beauty of nature & migratory birds. Experience sumptuous Odia cuisine from the royal kitchen. Overnight at Royal Home stay.

Day 8: Parikud – Barkul on Chilika - Gopalpur on Sea

Set out by road after early breakfast to explore Gopalpur-On Sea, one of finest beach destination with serene, blue and breathtaking and make you feel like European destination. The ruins of an old port throw light of time that won Gopalpur its prominent place in Odisha’s history. On arrival check in at hotel. Over night stay at Gopalpur

Day 9: Gopalpur on Sea – Taptapani – Jirang- Soura Village- Rayagada

After a refreshing morning having strolled along the serene beach, set out by road along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Drive further to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Rayagada. Enroute visit the Aryan tribal village popularly known as Lanjia saura. Explore their life style during hiking of their village. Their main occupation is farming on traditional way as they use the wooden plough, hoe etc. Visit to the Shaman house as well to see the rare mud wall painting. On arrival at Rayagada Check in at Hotel. Overnight at Rayagada.

Day 10: Rayagada - Chatikona - Koraput - Jeypore (Must Be Wednesday)

Early morning after breakfast drive down to Chatikona to watch the interesting colorful weekly market of Kondh tribes. This tribe is one of the most primitive tribe of the Kondh's they live in the high slopes of the Niyamagiri Hills. These people are horticulturists. They grow fruits like Orange, Pineapple, Banana etc. The male people of this community also wear ear rings, nose rings, and keep their hair as women. Later proceed to Jeypore enroute visiting some villages of Paroja tribes. Arrive late evening and check in at the hotel and overnight at Jeypore.

Day 11: Jeypore-Ounkadeli- Lamptaput- Jeypore

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli - 70 km to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest. You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time. Free time in the market. Afternoon proceed to Lamtaput area to explore another primitive tribal community the Gdabas - you can watch the most colorful tribal dance call DHEMSA. Late afternoon drive back to Jeypore.Overnight at Jeypore.

Day 12: Jeypore- Kunduli- Kotpad -Jagdalpur

After an early visit Jagannath temple at Koraput, followed by Kunduli weekly market. It is the biggest market of the tribal area where you will find the main concentration of the beautiful Sana Paraja & Mali tribes. By noon drive to Kotpad known for unique fabric out of its rich vegetable dyed reds, browns and blacks with motifs woven by the Mirgan community. On arrival at Jagdalpur check in at Jungle Resort. Overnight at Jagdapur.

Day 13: Jagdalpur

After breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour of Jagdalpur. Visit the Anthropological Museum which is known to present an interesting insight into Bastar’s tribal culture. Later visit the Chitrakoot waterfall, Bastar’s very own ‘Nigara’ on the Indravati River. Visit some of the local Bison-Horn Maria tribe, renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dancing. Stroll around Kumhapara for wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, terracota, bell metal items, wrought iron items and cotton fabrics( Kosa sari etc). Evening get entertained by a performance of the tribal people, before returning to your hotel. Overnight at Jagdalpur.

Day 14: Jagdalpur – Kondagaon – Kanker

Today after breakfast drive towards Kondagaon to visit matel casting craftmen at their village. Then after drive towards Muria Tribe village and camping near at their Gotul Dormitory house. Continue your tour to Kanker. Check in with conventional welcome at Kanker Palace. Evening enjoy the cultural programme, where the royal family joins to impart their experiences into the life of the locale. Over night at Kanker.

Day 15: Kanker – On to Bahigaon

Post breakfast, travel around the exotic places of Kanker such as the Royal heritage palace. At some distance from there, head towards the village of Bahigaon. There you will experience the traditions of Muria and enjoy their Deer horn bison Dance. Return to Kanker. Overnight stay at Kanker Palace.

Day 16: Kanker – Raipur – Mumbai

Today is the day to bid farewell of your Treasure tour. Post breakfast drive to Raipur airport for your onward flight to Mumbai. Arrive in Mumbai, where your representative meets and transfers you to your iconic hotel. Formerly known as ‘Bombay’, Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, is India’s giant commercial and institutional hub, a melting pot of cultures and communities and home to Bollywood, the world’s most prolific film industry. The city also has fabulous colonial-era architecture, world class hotels, superb restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 17: Mumbai – City Tour

Today morning after breakfast set out to explore the city’s classic sights, including the Gateway of India, an 85-foot-high arch whose design reflects India’s Muslim and Hindu traditions.Next, tour Kala Ghoda, the culture and heritage hotspot. Apart from its phenomenal Victorian neo- Gothic architecture, Kala Ghoda is also home to cafes, restaurants, fine shops, and boutiques. Then, see the extraordinary Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage monument. Built between 1878 and 1888, the Terminus is delicately carved and richly sculpted, with stained-glass windows. In the afternoon, enjoy a culinary session followed by lunch with a Michelin Star chef. Later, you visit Dhobi Ghat, a sight unique to Mumbai. ‘Dhobi Ghat’ (‘washer folks’ place’), is the world’s largest outdoor laundry, where Mumbai’s traditional dhobis provide a wonderful service – collecting dirty laundry, washing it, and returning it neatly ironed, all for a very small fee. Before retiring to hotel visit Mani Bhavan, the place where Gandhi used to stay when he used to visit the city. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 18 : Mumbai -Aurangabad

Morning after breakfast transfer to Mumbai airport for flight to Aurangabad. On arrival transfer to hotel in Aurangabad. In the afternoon a set out for city sightseeing tour of Aurangabad. Visit the Pani Chakki , surrounded by a picturesque garden-landscape dotted with fish tanks. The Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, built by Aurangzeb’s son as a tribute to his mother,  Overnight at Hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 19: Aurangabad- On to Ajanta

Enjoy a full day excursion to Ajanta Caves.  100 kms from the city of Aurangabad having 30 rock-hewn caves , dating from 2nd century B.C.  Ajanta, once the retreat of the Buddhist monastic orders features several ‘Chaityas’ and Viharas. The exquisite paintings and sculptures of Buddha’s life belong to the Mahayana period. Overnight at Aurangabad. Please Note: Ajanta Caves are closed on Monday.

Day 20: Aurangabad

In the morning head out to Ellora Caves. Impressive in their own right are the rock-hewn temples and monasteries of Ellora that lie just 30 kms away from Aurangabad City and are the meeting point of the Buddhists, Jains and Hindus. In all, there are 34 elaborate cave temples. This afternoon enjoy an excursion to Daulatabad Fort, a labyrinthine structure that was once covered in Persian tiles.  Overnight at Aurangabad. Please Note:  Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesday.

Day 21: Aurangabad – Mumbai - Departure

Today depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure from Aurangabad  to  Mumbai & board your connecting flight to your onward journey. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the heritage, indigenous culture & hospitality of the region and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Heritage Calling (18N/19D)

Day 1:Arrive Delhi

On arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be greeted by our representative in the arrival hall, who will escort you to your hotel and assist you in check-in. Overnight stay at Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi

After a relaxed morning, your guide meets you in the lobby of your hotel and you set out to explore the Old City of Delhi, where Mughal art and architecture still survive in the narrow lanes lined with havelis, mosques and food stalls serving authentic Mughlai food, an integral part of Indian cuisine. Old Delhi tourist places include Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk Raj Ghat, and Mahatma Gandhi's cremation site. Also visit Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first garden-tomb in India, which was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Later, discover the Imperial New Delhi showcasing spacious, tree-lined boulevards and noteworthy buildings. Notable attractions include Connaught Place (CP), the Presidential Palace and India Gate. Overnight, stay at Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi – Varanasi

Today morning after breakfast shall be dropped at airport for your flight to Varanasi. On arrival meet and greet at airport. Drive to Hotel and assist to check in at hotel. Afternoon, visit the Sarnath Buddhist town for an excursion. In evening  Ganga Aarti with Boat ride  at Main Ghat. Overnight stay at Varanasi.

Day 4: Varanasi – Agra

At the Sunrise take a refreshing boat ride over River Ganges. Later, take the city tour of Mosque of Alamgir, the Benaras Hindu University, Temple of Bharat Mata and Dasawamedha Ghat. Then, shall be dropped at airport for your flight to Agra and on reaching check in to your hotel. Afternoon, visit the Red Fort, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb and Fatehpur Sikri. Spend the night in hotel.

Day 5: Agra – Khajuraho

In the early refreshing morning, take the visit of renowned Taj Mahal- The symbol of eternal love. Post visit shall be dropped at Airport for your flight to Khajuraho in MP. On arrival meet & greet. Drive to hotel & assist in Check in to the hotel. Afternoon, our guide will take you to the variety of Temples in Khajuraho with architechural marvels. Later in evening experience the light & sound show where you will be introduced to Khajuraho temples discovery, history and associated myths. If is available in Western group of temples which declared as UNESCO World Heritage site also. Overnight at Khajuraho.

Day 6: Khajuraho – Orchha – Gwalior

Today morning after breakfast drive towards Orchha from Khajuraho. Visit the Jehangir Mahal, Temple of Ram Raja, Raj Mahal, Temple of Chaturbhuj and then drive towards Gwalior at a later point of time. Arrive Gwalior – The Royal City. Check in to your hotel. In the evening visit the spectacular sound and light show. Overnight stay at Gwalior.

Day 7: Gwalior – Shivpuri

After Freshen up proceed for Sightseeing tour of Gwalior which includes an extraordinary fortress and its riches of ancient and medieval temples, mosques and palaces. Visit the sandstone fort, the 9th century Teli Ka Mandir and the 11th century Sas Bahu ka Mandir. Tour the several places of interest like the stupendous Fort of Gwalior, Suraj Kund, Man Mandir Palace and Temple of Sahastrabahu and so on. Head towards the Tombs of Ghias Mohammed and Tansen, Jai Vilas Palace’s Museum (named after Jivaji Rao Scindia) and Sun Temple. Later drive go to Shivpuri. On arrival Check in at Hotel & Overnight stay.

Day 8: Shivpuri

Today after breakfast, sets off for a sightseeing tour of Shivpuri. Visit Chhatri, Panihar, Bhadaiya Kund, Madhav Vilas Palace and the George Castle.  Return to the hotel for lunch. After lunch, proceed to enjoy jeep/ elephant safari at Madhav National Park. It was a famous hunting spot of the Gwalior royal family as well as the British. Some of the animals inhabiting this park are the four-horned antelope, blue-bull, chinkara, tiger, leopard and chital. Overnight stay at Shivpuri.

Day 9: Shivpuri – Ujjain

Morning post breakfast, leave for Ujjain - one among the seven sacred cities of the Hindus. On arrival Ujjain, check in at hotel. The major tourist attractions of Ujjain include Bhartrihari Caves, Kaliadeh Palace, Gomti Kund and the Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir. Overnight stay at Ujjain.

Day 10: Ujjain

Morning after sumptuous breakfast, start your sightseeing tour with Mahakaleshwar temple, Navagraha Mandir and the Patal Bhairav temple. The Mahakaleshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. As per your choice early in the morning you can attend Bhasm Aarti, one of the important rituals of this temple and a symbolic representation of death and life. Overnight stay at Ujjain.

Day 11: Ujjain – Mandu

Post breakfast, get to Indore and there you will visit the Kanch Mandir with its insides of Mirrored of Jain Scriptures only. Get to the museum to review the Hindu Sculpture collections. Post lunch and then head for Mandu. On arrival set out to visit the Tomb of Mandu, a great example of Afghan architecture. The other attractions of Mandu include canals, old baths and crafted pavilions. Later in the day visit the Alamgir, Bhangi, Ram Pol Darwaza, Jehangir Gate and Tarapur Gate. Overnight stay at Mandu.

Day 12: Mandu

This morning after breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Mandu. The major tourist attractions to visit include Ashrafi Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Jahaz Mahal and the Baz Bahadur's Palace. In the evening visit the Roopmati's Pavilion. This pavilion is a major tourist attraction and offers many scenic views. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and overnight stay at the Mandu.

Day 13: Mandu – Bhopal

Morning after breakfast, leave for Bhopal. Bhopal is known as the City of Lakes for its various natural as well as artificial lakes. On arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon, set out on a sightseeing tour of Bhopal which includes Upper Lake, Shahpura lake, Kalika Mandir, Sair Sapata and the Van Vihar National Park. The Upper Lake is the largest artificial lake in Asia. Overnight stay in Bhopal.

Day 14: Bhopal – Sanchi – Bhopal

After breakfast, leave for Sanchi. Visit Sanchi stupas-the most magnificent structures of ancient India. Later in the day, visit the major attraction of Sanchi covering Ashoka Pillar, Buddhist Vihar, Sanchi Museum and the Gupta Temple. In the evening drive back to Bhopal Overnight stay in Bhopal.

Day 15: Bhopal – Pachmarhi

Post breakfast leave for Pachmarhi. Enroute visit the Bhimbetka caves. The paintings in over 500 caves depict the life of the pre-historic dwellers, featuring vivid and panoramic detailing. Continue your drive further to Pachmarhi. On arrival check in at Hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in your hotel room. Evening stroll around to explore the local area of Pachmarhi. Overnight stay at Panchmarhi.

Day 16: Pachmarhi

Today morning, move out to explore Pachmarhi. It is a popular tourist retreat, being surrounded by attractive forests, Rajat Pratap waterfalls, tranquil pools and calm glades. In the evening proceed to Dhupgarh, the highest point in the Satpura range to witness the mesmerizing sunset. Overnight stay at Panchmarhi.

Day 17: Pachmarhi – Jabalpur

Today morning after breakfast, drive to Jabalpur. On reaching at Jabalpur, check-in to your hotel. Post lunch leave for a sightseeing tour of Jabalpur including Madan Mahal, Sangram Sagar lake, Rani Durgavati museum and Marble Rocks. Evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Jabalpur.

Day 18: Jabalpur – Mumbai

Today morning is at your leisure. Later shall be dropped at Railway station for your onward journey towards Mumbai. Overnight on board train.

Day 19: Mumbai

On arrival at Mumbai, our representatives will assist you for hotel transfer. Check in at Hotel. Later shall take a short trip of Mumbai city i.e. Prince of Wales Museum, Marine Drive, Parliament House and Jain Temple. Later depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at Chatrapati Sivaji international airport before 3 hours of your departure for flight to your onward journey. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the heritages in the heartland of India and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

East Coast Trail(12N / 13D)

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Arrive at Netaji Subash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. Depending on the time of your flight, you might like to explore the markets and near-by cafes which are great for trying some local delicacies. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

Day 2: Kolkata

After relaxing mornig, you set out today to explore the city’s hidden gems. Your guide takes you tot Mother Teresa’s Mission and Mother House. Learn about her and her humanitarian efforts as you explore the grounds. Next, visit the Jain Temple to admire its stunning architecture. A short car ride brings you to the famed University of Calcutta. Here, you walk the grounds as your guide explains the history of the place and names some of the most influential students, like Nobel Prize winning economist Amartya Sen. Post-lunch, visit the Magen David Synagogue, one of the largest Jewish temples open for worship in the Asian Pacific. Enjoy time at Eden Gardens, the hallowed grounds for the nation’s favorite pastime. After checking out what is arguably the most iconic stadium in the country, make a stop at the Victoria Memorial, a museum that’s home to a vast collection of sculptures, manuscripts, paintings and other items from the time of British rule. Finally, make a stop for photos on the Howrah Bridge—the sixth largest cantilever bridge on earth—as you make your way back to your hotel. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bhadrakh- Bhitarkanika

After breakfast  drop at Howrah Railway Station for your journey towards Bhadrak . On arrival transfer to Jayanagar Jetty to board the boat to Khola-Jungle resort, an amazing resort amidst the thick vegetation and wildlife. The stay here is going to be comfortable and amazing. After the good lunch in the resort, take a cruise to Kalibhanja Diha, Dhamara Port and Dhamarai temple. After the visit, lead back to the Khola-Jungle resort for dinner and night stay.

Day 4: Bhitarkanika

After breakfast the journey starts from the wildlife sanctuary of Bhitarkanika. The visit continue different crocodile spots, bird sanctuaries and trekking towards the hunting tower of ancient king. Post lunch continue to the crocodile breeding center and the Museum. After the amazing visit to the wildlife park, return to the Jungle resort for the dinner and stay.

Day 5:Bhitarkanika- Dhenkanal

Today after breakfast travel back to the Jayanagar jetty from the Khola Jungle resort. From there depart for the Diamond triangle of Odisha. Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri & Udaygiri -these trio hills and their sorroundings comprise a remarkable Buddhist monastic complex. Hiuen T’sang the Chinese Pilgrim found it to be the seat of a flourishing Buddhist University called Puspagiri. Extensive ruins of brick pagodas, sculptured stone portals and esoteric Buddhist images testifying its ancient glory, have been unearthed. At Ratangiri two large Monasteries, a huge stupa, Buddhist shrines and several sculptures were surfaced. At Lalitgiri a series of brick pagodas, stone porches, prayer halls and Buddhist images were unearthed. At Udaigiri you can see magnificently carved door jamb of the Vihar and the superbly finished Buddha images of the post-Gupta period & lots of Buddhist sculptures. Afternoon proceed to Dehnkanal. Check in with conventional welcome at Royal Palace. Overnight stay at Dhenkanal.

Day 6: Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Bhubaneswar

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Later proceed towards Bhubaneswar. Overnight stay at Bhubaeswar.

Day 7: Bhubaneswar To  Puri  via Dhauli, Pipli & Konark

After an early breakfast drive to Puri. Enroute visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda famous for the Ashokan rock edicts dating back to 2nd century B:C, Visit of Parasurameswar Temple (7th Century AD.), Mukteswar Temple(10th Century AD.), Rajarani  Temple ( 11th Century AD.) and Lingaraj Temple ( 11th Century AD). Visit Pipli -The colourful applique Village where you can see the colouful Odishan handicrafts. Later proceed to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. On arrival at Puri check into Hotel. Evening free at Leisure.Overnight stay at the Puri.

Day 8: Puri

TThis morning visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Visit various temples & maths in and around Puri. Afternoon is free and you may visit the long stretch of golden beach, shallow enough to walk out a long distance, with superb surf. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 9: Puri – Chilka-Gopalpur

Morning post breakfast drive to Gopalpur-on- sea . Enroute visit Barkul at Chillika Lake. The Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna in winter. Sail the lake to explore the beauty of nature & migratory birds. Later drive to Gopalpur On Sea, which offers secluded environment and magnificent sun, surf and sand for most of the year. Rest of the day at leisure at the beach. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Gopalpur – Rayagada

Morning post breakfast proceed by surface to Rayagada. Rayagada is a district of meadows, forests, waterfalls, and terraced valleys, peopled by colourful tribals and many primitive tribal groups. The scenic beauty and heritage on the land is an unexplored paradise. The systematic relationship between men and nature is a feast to the eyes of an outsider. It has its own languages and culture. The tribes living in the district posses dissimilar economics ranging from food gathering to settled cultivation. Their languages,dialects, societies and culture show inter-social & cultural variations because of the persistence of ethnic mosaic formed by communities belonging to the scheduled tribes, scheduled castes and other castes groups. Enroute visit some villages of Kumuti, Saora & Kondh. On arrival check in at hotel. Later visit the weekly Tribal markets of Majhiguda (35kms22 miles), Gumma (15kms/9 miles).Overnight stay at Rayagada.

Day 11: Rayagada - Chatikona - Koraput - Jeypore (Must Be Wednesday)

Early morning after breakfast drive down to Chatikona to watch the interesting colorful weekly market of Kondh tribes. This tribe is one of the most primitive tribe of the Kondh's they live in the high slopes of the Niyamagiri Hills. These people are horticulturists. They grow fruits like Orange, Pineapple, Banana etc. The male people of this community also wear ear rings, nose rings, and keep their hair as women. Later proceed to Jeypore enroute visiting some villages of Paroja tribes. Arrive late evening and check in at the hotel and overnight at Jeypore.

Day 12: Jeypore-Ounkadeli- Lamptaput- Jeypore

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli - 70 km to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest. You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time. Free time in the market. Afternoon proceed to Lamtaput area to explore another primitive tribal community the Gdabas - you can watch the most colorful tribal dance call DHEMSA. Late afternoon drive back to Jeypore.Overnight at Jeypore.

Day 13: Jeypore- Kunduli- Visakhapatnam

After an early visit Jagannath temple at Koraput, followed by Kunduli weekly market. It is the biggest market of the tribal area where you will find the main concentration of the beautiful Sana Paraja & Mali tribes. Later drops at Visakhapatnam airport for your journey back home with sweet memories of holidays. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the heritages in the heartland of India and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Hidden Gems of North East India(13N/14D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Guwhati- Gateway to the East

Day 1: Guwahati – Nameri National Park (220 kms/ 5 hours)

On arrival at Guwahati airport meet our representative who esocort you to your vehicle . From Guwahati transfer to Nameri National Park, near the Assam Arunachal Pradesh border. Evening, walk on the banks of river Bhorelli that flows near to your camp (If time permits). Come back to the camp at dusk. Overnight stay at Nameri.

Day 2: Nameri National Park – Dirang(180 kms/7 hours)

Today morning after breakfast ransfer to Dirang and check into Hotel. Evening visit Dirang town and local market. Overnight stay at Dirang

Day 3: Dirang – Tawang(145 kms, 7 hours)

After breakfast drive to Tawang at 10200 ft. Enroute cross the Sela Pass at 13476 ft, the highest motorable pass in the Northeast. Also visit Jaswant Ghar and before reaching Tawang visit the Nunarang fall. Reach Tawang and check into Hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Tawang.

Day 4: Tawang

Post breakfast visit the famous 400 years old Tawang Monastery. Also visit the nunneries locally called Ani Gompa and Urgelling Monastery, 460 years old Monastery established by lama Urghen Sangpo Bhumthang. It is also the birthplace of His holiness 6th Dalai Lama. Intermingled with the lamas (monks). Come back to the lodge for lunch. Afternoon visit a MONPA village. Evening visit market. Overnight stay at Tawang.

Day 5: Tawang – Bomdila(180 kms/7 hours)

Today after breakfast transfer to Bomdila today at an altitude of 8000 ft. Check into hotel on arrival. Afternoon sight seeing of Bomdila town includes visit to GRL Monastery (Upper Gompa) and market. Return to hotel. Overnight stay at Bomdila

Day 6: Bomdila – Itanagar (260 kms/7 hours)

Post breakfast drive Itanagar. On arrival check into Hotel. Later visit Ita Fort, State Museum (Friday, Saturday & government holidays closed). Overnight stay at Itanagar.

Day 7: Itanagar – Ziro (160 kms/7 hours)

Today after after refreshing morning set off for Ziro, 160 kms away. Before reaching Ziro stop at a village inhabited by NISHI tribes. Lunch on the way. Check into hotel on arrival. Evening visit to market. Return to hotel. Overnight stay at Ziro.

Day 8: Ziro

Today post breakfast visit Apatani villages. Ziro is one of the most traditional areas in Arunachal Pradesh. Overnight stay at Zero.

Day 9: Ziro – Daporijo (160 kms/8 hours)

Today after breakfast visit APATANI villages and then proceed to Daporijo, 160 kms away. Enroute visit Tagin and HILL MIRI villages. These are the main tribes of this area. On arrival check into Hotel. Overnight stay at Daporijo.

Day 10: Daporijo – Along (160 kms/8 hours)

This morning after breakfast drive to Along. The main tribe of this area is ADI GALLONG. Visit their villages on the way. On reaching Along visit local market. Check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Along.

Day 11: Along

After breakfast visit full day excursion to Galo villages. Flanked by a dense forest, the village is inhabited by the people of Galo Tribe who are known for their agriculture festival of Mopin. Overnight stay at Along.

Day 12: Along – Pasighat (140 kms/ 5 hours)

Today your destination is Pasighat. Visit more villages on the way. On arrival check into Hotel. Evening visit local market. Overnight stay at Pasighat

Day 13: Pasighat – Dibrugarh (180 km/5 hrs drive)

Today after breakfast drive to Dibrugarh. Check into hotel. Evening walk around the town. Overnight stay at Dibrugarh.

Day 14: Dibrugarh-Departure (15 kms/ 30 mins)

Morning drop at Dibrugarh airport two hours before departure of your onward flight. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the north east hinterland of India and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Treasure of Nagaland(14N/15D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Guwhati- The Gateway to the East.

Day 1: Arrive Dimapur – Kohima (80km/03 hrs) (Nagaland)

On arrival at Dimapur airport meet our representative at the exit gate. Begin your tour driving towards Kohima. If time permits visit local market. Overnight stay at Kohima.

Day 2: Kohima – On To Khonoma Village (Nagaland)

Today after breakfast drive to Khonoma village via Kohima, a place renowned for its valour and courage. The Khonoma gate tells the story of British infiltration into Naga hills. After lunch, late afternoon visit the famous war cemetery, a symbolic memorial raised as citation for the supreme sacrifice made by the officers and men of the Allied forces during World War II. Come back to Kohima for overnight stay.

Day 3: Kohima – Mokokchung (160 km/6 hrs) (Nagaland)

Morning after breakfast drive to Mokokchung in the north-central Nagaland. This district is inhabited by the AO Tribe. The journey takes about 6 hours. Enroute visit UNGMA AND LONGKHUM VILLAGE. On reaching Mokokchung check into Tourist Lodge. Overnight stay at Mokokchung.

Day 4: Mokokchung – Mon (220km/8 hrs) (Nagaland)

Today after a basic breakfast drive to Mon. This drive to Mon in Nagaland is through lush green valley of the tea estates of Assam. The journey takes about 8 hours. This district is inhabited by the KONYAK TRIBE. On arrival check into Hotel. Overnight stay at Mon.

Day 5: Mon (Nagaland)

Today after early breakfast visit drive to Longwa village on the Indo-Burma border. Walk in the village and learn about the Konyak Nagas. Today we will provide packed lunch. And then from here drive over to another traditional village of the Konyaks, Hongphui village. Return to hotel. Overnight stay at Mon.

Day 6: Mon (Nagaland) – Dibrugarh (Assam) (180 km/07 hrs)

After an early breakfast drive to Dibrugarh. On arrival check into hotel. Evening visit Jokai Village. Overnight stay at Dibrugarh.

Day 7:  Dibrugarh (Assam) - Along Via Pasighat (Arunachal Pradesh) (280 km - 8 hours)

After breakfast drive to Along. On arrival at Along check in at your hotel.Enroute visit Adi Miniyong villages. Overnight stay at Along.

Day 8:  Along (Arunachal Pradesh)

After breakfast visit full day excursion to Galo villages. Flanked by a dense forest, the village is inhabited by the people of Galo Tribe who are known for their agriculture festival of Mopin. Overnight stay at Along.

Day 9:  Along - Daporijo (160 km - 8 hours) (Arunachal Pradesh)

Today after Breakfast departure to Daporijo. Enroute stop to visit the villages of tagin tribes, Arrive Daporijo and check in at Hotel. Overnight at Daporijo.

Day 10:  Daporijo  -  Ziro (160 km - 8 hours) (Arunachal Pradesh)

Post breakfast drive to Ziro . Enroute visit to the tribes of the Hill Miri who practice shifting cultivation, and Nishis or Dafla, ancient warriors of Mongolian origin who live in villages made ​​up of bamboo houses, also 70 meters long, where cohabiting couples. Arrival in Ziro. Check into hotel. Overnight stay at Ziro.

Day 11: Ziro (Arunachal Pradesh)

Today after breakfast visit to the tribal community of Apatani, grouped in about twenty villages. The Apatani are a peaceful tribe of Mongolian origin, who developed an advanced technique of rice cultivation in terrace. Their social system is strictly divided into nobles and slaves. Womens tattoo their face with vertical lines of blue and carry the plates as nasal ornament. Overnight stay at Ziro.

Day 12:  Ziro (Arunachal Pradesh) - Majuli (Assam) (150 km - 6 hours + 01 hr ferry)

Morning after breakfast transfer to Majuli, enroute visit the village of Nishi tribe. And later take a punctuated by a local ferry crossing of tributaries of powerful Brahmaputra, takes you to Majuli, the largest river island in the world (900 km²), inhabited by the Mishing, Arunachal Pradesh and has preserved a unique culture and lifestyle. Overnight stay at Majuli.

Day 13:  Majuli – Kaziranga National Park (1 ½ ferry + 110 km/3 hrs) (Assam)

Today post breakfast visit Kamalabari Satra, Mask making center and Auni Ati Satra. Afternoon head to Kaziranga National Park, a paradise for greater Indian one horned Rhinoceros as well as a home to Elephants, tigers, water buffaloes and many species of birds. On arrival, we will check into Hotel. Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 14: Kaziranga National Park (Assam)

Today early in the morning explore of the park by an elephant safari. Apart from the rhino, other animals that you may encounter in the safari are hog deer, swamp deer, wild water buffalos, elephants - and if you are lucky, even tiger. Kaziranga is also home to pelicans, storks and darters - as there are numerous water bodies to be encountered inside the Park. With a variety of migratory and resident birds darting from tree to tree, the safari in Kaziranga offers you an opportunity to observe these avian varieties – along with their mammalian counterparts - very closely. Return to the resort for breakfast. Mid morning, venture into the park for a Jeep safari. Lunch serve at the resort –Post lunch, again venture into the park for a Jeep safari. Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 15: Kaziranga National Park - Guwahati Airport (230 km/ 5 hrs) (Assam)

Morning after breakfast drop at Guwahati airport two hours before departure of your onward flight. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the treasures of Nagaland and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Hornbill Festival( 1st To 10th December) with Kaziranga (5N/6D)

Day 1 :  Arrive Guwahati– Kaziranga National Park (250 Km/ 05 Hrs)

On arrival Guwahati drive to Kaziranga National Park, a paradise for greater Indian one horned Rhinoceros as well as a home to Elephants, tigers, water buffaloes and many species of birds. On arrival, we will check into Hotel. Dinner at the resort and overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 2 : Kaziranga National Park

Today early in morning explore the park by an elephant ride. Apart from the rhino, other animals that you may encounter in the safari are hog deer, swamp deer, wild water buffalos, elephants - and if you are lucky, even tiger. Kaziranga is also home to pelicans, storks and darters - as there are numerous water bodies to be encountered inside the Park. With a variety of migratory and resident birds darting from tree to tree, the safari in Kaziranga will offer you an opportunity to observe these avian varieties – along with their mammalian counterparts - very closely. Return to the resort for breakfast. Post lunch venture into western range of the park for a Jeep safari. Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 3 : Kaziranga National Park – Kohima (250 km/7 hrs)

Post breakfast begin your festival tour driving to Kohima. On arrival check into hotel. Evening visit local market (If time permits). Dinner & Overnight.

Day 4 : Kohima- Hornbill Festival

Today after breakfast spend the fullday at hornbill festival. Dinner & overnight stay at Kohima.

Day 5 : Kohima – visit Hornbill Festival or visit Khonoma Village

Today after breakfast whole day at hornbill festival Or After breakfast today we drive to Khonoma village via Kohima, a place renowned for its valour and courage. The Khonoma gate tells the story of British infiltration into Naga hills. After lunch, late afternoon visit the famous war cemetery, a symbolic memorial raised as citation for the supreme sacrifice made by the officers and men of the Allied forces during World War II. Come back to Kohima. Dinner and overnight stay at Kohima.

Day 6 : Kohima – Dimapur Departure (80 km/03 hrs)

Morning drop at Dimapur airport two hours before departure of your onward flight. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the festive tour of north east India and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Kaziranga Wilderness(3N/4D)

Day 1:  Arrive Guwahati– Kaziranga National Park (230 Km/ 5 Hrs)

On arrival at Guwahati airport in morning meet & assist at the arrival hall. Then visit to Kamakhya Temple situated in Nilachal Hill. Kamakhya temple is the prime Shakti shrine of the northeast India. The reigning deity here is Goddess Parvati (Sati). And then we will drive to Kaziranga National Park (230 KM/ 05 HRS), a paradise for greater Indian one horned Rhinoceros as well as a home to Elephants, tigers, water buffaloes and many species of birds. On arrival, we will check into Hotel. Dinner at the resort and overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 2: Kaziranga National Park

Today early in morning explore the park by an elephant ride. Apart from the rhino, other animals that you may encounter in the safari are hog deer, swamp deer, wild water buffalos, elephants - and if you are lucky, even tiger. Kaziranga is also home to pelicans, storks and darters - as there are numerous water bodies to be encountered inside the Park. With a variety of migratory and resident birds darting from tree to tree, the safari in Kaziranga will offer you an opportunity to observe these avian varieties – along with their mammalian counterparts - very closely. Return to the resort for breakfast. Post lunch venture into western range of the park for a Jeep safari. Overnight stay at Kaziranga. Note: This is for your information that elephant ride and jeep safari and forest entry are regulated and controlled by the forest dept. Govt. of Assam. As such we do not have any control for booking of elephant seats and entry by jeeps

Day 3: Kaziranga National Park

After a relaxing morning go for jeep safari at the eastern range of the park. Afternoon jeep safari at the central range of the park. Return to the Lodge at dusk. Dinner and Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 4: Kaziranga National Park – Guwahati (230 Km/5 Hrs)

Morning after breakfast drop at Guwahati airport two hours before departure of your onward flight. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the treasures of Kaziranga and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

North East Getaway (5N/6D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Dibrugarh- The tea hub of upper Assam

Day 1: Arrive Dibrugarh

On arrival at Dibrugarh airport our representative meets at the exit gate and assist you to transfer to Hotel. Dibrugarh- the Tea Hub of upper Assam and gateway to Eastern Arunachal Pradesh is located on the Southern bank of the mighty Brahmaputra River. Dibrugarh is the original home of the beverage. After check in, we will walk on the banks of Brahmaputra River & then visit local market. Overnight at the Dubrugarh.

Day 2: Dibrugarh – Namphake Village – Jorhat (160 km/ 04 ½ hrs)

Today after breakfast, drive back to Tai Phake (60kms/1hr 30min). Enroute visit Nam Phake village - an ethnic village whose kith and kin date back to the Ahom period. The villagers still maintain their age-old culture - a village worth exploring. It is situated near the River Buri-Dihing. A Buddhist Monastery dots the village which belongs to the Hinayana sects. Tai translation of the Ramayana written on handmade paper has been newly discovered in this village. The structures of the houses are unique as the walls are made of bamboo and the roof is of palm leaves (Toko), mounted over a Chang or stilt. If time permits, enroute visit 02 monuments at Sibsagar. Later drive to Jorhat. On arrival check into hotel. Overnight stay at Jorhat.

Day 3: Jorhat – Kaziranga National Park

Morning post breakfast, drive to Kaziranga National Park (110 kms/2 ½ hrs). Afternoon jeep safari at the central range of the park. Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 4: Kaziranga National Park – Shillong (317 km/ 06 ½ hrs)

Early morning set out for elephant ride. Back to resort for Breakfast. After breakfast, drive to Shillong in the state of Meghalaya (1496 mtrs). Evening, walk through a local market to imbibe the spirit of the Khasi tribal market place run by the womenfolk. Overnight stay at the Shillong.

Day 5: Shillong

Today morning after breakfast set out for a Day trip to Mawlynnong- the cleanest village in Asia. This is an experience in itself. We will explore the living root bridge and the tree house in the village. Then proceed to Dawki (Indo-Bangladesh Border) Overnight stay at Shillong.

Day 6: Shillong-Guwahati (120 km/03 hrs)

Morning while driving towards Guwahati enroute visit Kamakhya Temple & Sankardev Kalakhetra. This tour ends with drop at Guwahati airport two hours before departure of your onward flight. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into the treasures of Kaziranga and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Central India Tribes(15N/16D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Jabalpur- The Gem of Central India.

Day 1: Arive Jabalpur

On arrival at Jabalpur airport our representative meets you at the arrival hall. Later transfer and check in at Hotel. Afternoon start your tour visiting the Palace of Madan Mahal belongs to Gond Dynasty which was built on massive granite rock. Further, visit the Chausathi Yogini temple near the Narmada River.

Day 2: Jabalpur – Bandhavgarh

Today after breakfast drive towards the sanctuary of Bandhavgarh which would take 4 to 5 hours. It is one of the renowned parks which have a great numbers of wild cats of India. Then, take a safari ride in the late afternoon. Overnight stay at Bandhavgarh.

Day 3 : Bandhavgarh

Enjoy the dawn and dusk Safari and explore the wildlife with watching the animals like Tigers, Panthers, Jackals, Suede, Gaurs, Wild Boards, and Deer and so on. There is also a impressive bird species found here. Overnight stay at Bandhavgarh.

Day 4 : Bandhavgarh – Kanha

EAfter a refreshing morning drive towards the Kanha National Park, which also has the biggest population of Tigers in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is also mentioned in the “Jungle Book” written by Rudyard Kipling. A superb forest with numerous Sal trees and pastures spread over. Enjoy the safari during the afternoon. Overnight stay at Kanha.

Day 5 : Kanha – Bhoramdeo

Early in the morning, enjoy another Safari and then leave for Bhoramdeo which would take about 3-4 hours. On arrival at Bhoramdeo and check in at hotel. After refreshment, explore the grand Bhoramdeo shiva temple-11th century AD. There are fine carvings with ornamentation and various erotic characters.Overnight stay in Bhoramdeo.

Day 6: Bhoramdeo - Raipur

After having breakfast, take the full day visit to village of Baiga tribes. Observe their typical livelihood and working lifestyle. They depend on coarse food like Kodo, Kutki, Pej and so on. They practice shifting cultivation in the areas of forest. You will visit the Bodla weekly market. Post lunch drive towards Raipur. Overnight stay at Raipur.

Day 7 : Raipur – Siripur – Rajim – Kanker

Today after breakfast drive for a full day excursion to the archeological site of Siripur. Here in the city, an enormous body of Hindu and Jain temples can be seen along with traces of Buddhist monastery. Further, proceed towards Rajim, which has temples subtly decorated Vishnuites with other enticing shrines. Further drive to Kanker & Check in with conventional welcome at Kanker Palace. Dinner & overnight stay at Kanker.

Day 8 : Kanker (Must be Saturday)

Morning post breakfast proceed to visit the Tribal village of Murria and witness their dance known as Gutul and there have the lunch. You may enjoy spending the time there in the Hamlets and visit several villages as well. Overnight stay at Kanker.

Day 9 : Kanker – Kondagaon – Jagdalpur (Weekly market on Sunday)

After breakfast drive towards to Kondagaon by road, which is in the midst of Bastar region. A weekly market is held in the Sunday where you can view the local industries of crafts such as lost wax bronze sculptures, cooked earth figurines, wrought iron segments and so on. Get to Jagdalpur and in between visit the Chitrakot Waterfalls which is also called as the Indian Niagra Falls. Overnight stay at Jagdalpur.

Day 10 : Jagdalpur – Kanger Park – Jagdalpur (Weekly Market on Monday)

Today morning discover the brilliant forests of Kanger National Park as well as the picturesque waterfalls of Citrakoot and Kutumeswar caves. Take the visit to Dhuruwa Tribal Villages to have lunch and enjoy the place. You may also witness the weekly market of Tokpal. Overnight stay at Jagdalpur.

Day 11 : Jagdalpur – Kotpad – Jeypore (Weekly market on Tuesday)

Today post breakfast drive towards Jeypore in Odisha, a neighboring state. En route, visit the towns of Bhatra tribes and Kotpad weavers village as well. Observe the Bhatra and Bhumiya weekly market of Kotpad & Jayantgiri. Overnight stay in Jeypore.

Day 12: Jeypore - Gupteshwar – Jeypore

Morning after breakfast drive to Gupteswar 70 km. Visit and walk through villages of interesting Dhuruba tribe. Visit the Cave temple of lord Shiva in the hidden mountain famous among the tribes. Later return back to hotel. Overnight stay at Jeypore.

Day 13: Jeypore - Onukadeli – Jeypore

Early moring post breakfast visit is the weekly market of the Bondas (primitive tribe). They live in the remote hills and keep themselves isolated. They grow rice by shifting cultivation and keep domesticated cows and goats. They can only be seen when they come to trade at the local market, and we must time our visit to coincide with the weekly market. The Bonda women are noticeable by their bead necklaces, striking brass and silver neck lets and their shaved heads decorated with plaits of Arecaceae leaves. Later drive back to Jeypore enroute visiting the pottery village of Paraja tribal village. Overnight stay at Jeypore.

Day 14 : Jeypore –Kunduli - Visakhapatnam

Morning after breakfast drive to the tribal weekly market of Sanaparoja & Mali tribes in Kunduli 65 km away via Sunabeda. It is a very colorful market along the National highway side. Later drive to visit village of Sanaparoja tribes. Arrival “Vishakapatnam” named after the God of valor, Visakha. Once a small fishing, it formed a part of the Kalinga empire, under Ashoka in 260 BC. passed on successively from the Andhra kings to Bengi to The Pallavas, Cholas and Gangas. In the 15th century, Vishakapatnam became a part of the Vijayanagar Empire. It was transformed into a port town under the British. Now a bustling industrial and commercial city, it is the country's largest ship building yard. The most famous landmark at Vishakapatnam is the Dolphin's Nose, a rock promontory in the port that is 358 Mt. In height. The Ramakrishna Mission Beach, on the east cost and Rishikonda, known for their serenity, are popular with tourists. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Visakhapatnam.

Day 15 : Visakhapatnam

Today morning drive towards Chapalavuppada fisherme’s village. Observe the fishing activities in the village and later, take the visit to Simachalam and Kailashgiri temples. Spend your leisure time on Rishikonda beach. Overnight stay at Visakhapatnam.

Day 16 : Visakhapatnam Departure

Today morning post breakfast, drop at airport for your onward journey. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into “Centre to Coast Tribes Tour” and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Tribal Tour Chattishgarh(7N/8D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Raipur- The Capital of Chattishgarh.

Day 1: Raipur – Kawardha

On arrival our representative meets you at arrival hall from where take a drive the former Princely State of Kawardha. Transfer to your Palace suite before lunch in the State Dining Room. In the afternoon tour to Palace Kawardha and nearby cultural sites, including the captivating Bhoramdeo temple complex. Your return to the Palace at sunset is followed by a welcome drink to meet the royal family, with traditional Chhattisgarhi dance entertainment. Dinner & Overnight stay at Kawardh.

Day 2 : Kawardha

Today postr breakfast, our guide briefs you about the secrets of Kawardha’s little-known natural and tribal world. Meet the gentle and friendly Baiga people, the principal indigenous forest tribe. Enjoy picnic lunch with them. In evening return to Palace Kawardha followed by a royal family dinner. Overnight stay at Kawardha.

Day 3 : Kawardha – Raipur – Kanker

Today after a relaxing morning drive to Raipur for a short visit to Raipur’s Mahant Ghasidas Museum before leaving for the former princely State of Kanker. On arrival at Kanker Palace the Maharaja’s family greet you and show you to your suite. Over drinks and dinner, family members explains you the folklore and tradition of the State they once ruled. They will also introduce you to a performance of the traditional music and dance of the region. Overnight stay at Kanker.

Day 4 : Kanker – Kondagaon – Narayanpur – Kanker

Morning after sumptuous breakfast at the Palace, set out for the Bastar tribal experience. In South of Kanker you and your royal guide climb the forested Keshkal Ghat, which marks the border of Bastar 500m above the plain. You will encounter here the special nature of North Bastar with a visit to a colorful weekly Market. It gives you a great opportunity to meet the local people. At Kondagaon and Narayanpur discover some of Bastar’s finest handicrafts, and the people who make them. Lunch will be a picnic in the deep green sal forests. Return to Kanker. Overnight stay at Kanker.

Day 5 : Kanker – Jagdalpur

Post breakfast, drive towards Jagdalpur- Bastar’s main town and former capital, just three hours away fromKanker. Check in at Resort, relax over leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, go for guided tour of historical Jagdalpur and the Anthropological Museum. Just before the dusk drive to Chitrakoot waterfall, Bastar’s very own ‘Niagara’ on the Indravati River. Later visit some of the local Bison-Horn Maria tribe, renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dancing. Get entertained yourself by a performance of the tribal people, before returning to your resort. Overnight at Jagdalpur.

Day 6 : Kanker – Kanger Valley National Park – Jagdalpur

Today moring after breakfast visit to the rich forests of the Kanger Valley National Park, the enchanting Tirathgarh waterfall and the extraordinary stalactite and stalagmite caves. Kanger retains the original intensity of the forests that once covered this whole region, and you will picnic in the natural habitat of leopard, tiger, sambar, bison and the Bastar Hill Myna. Here too are forest tribal people in their natural habitat. You will also have time to explore some of Jagdalpur’s unique handicrafts before dinner at the Resort. Overnight stay at Jagdalpur.

Day 7 : Jagdalpur – Raipur

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and visit the bustling markets of Jagdalpur before your return to Raipur. On the highway, we again pass several handicraft centers for those last-minute souvenirs of your Bastar Experience. Halt at Kanker, for a farewell lunch with the Maharaja’s family. On arrival check in at Hotel. Relax in the pool, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner.Overnight at Ripur.

Day 8 : Raipur - Departure

Today morning post breakfast, drop at airport for your onward journey. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into “Chattishgarh Tribes” and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Buddhist Trail East Coast(12 nights & 13 days)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enthralled by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha State Museum( Close on Monday) a store house of lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Buddhist archaeological sites of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2 : Bhubaneswar – On to Konark & Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. 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 stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3 : Bhubaneshwar – Ratnagiri

Today post breakfast set out for a full day Excursion to Lalitigiri (Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) it’s Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budha’s relic is available. Later visit Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of the sculptors of the Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Proceed to Udaygiri, another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Overnight stay at Ratnagiri.

Day 4 : Ratnagiri – Bhubaneswar

Morning after breakfast set off to 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 Stay at Hotel.

Day 5 : Bhubaneswar – Barkul on Chilika - Gopalpur on Sea

Set out by road after early breakfast to explore turquoise Expanse of Chilka. The Chilka Lake spread across 1200 sqkm is Asia’s largest brackish water lake studded with small islands and has a unique ecosystem with a large number of aquatic flora and fauna in winter. Get enthralled by Boat ride with beautiful scenic access. Later proceed to Gopalpur, one of finest beach destination with serene, blue and breathtaking and make you feel like European destination. On arrival check in to Hotel & over night stay.

Day 6 : Gopalpur on Sea – Taptapani – Jirang- Soura Village- Srikakulam

After a refreshing morning having strolled along the serene beach, set out by road along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Drive further to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Srikakulam. On arrival check in at Hotel. Ovenight stay at Srikakulam.

Day 7: Srikakulam- Visakhapatnam

After break fast visit Tree Kalinga temple(Sree Mukhalingeswara Temple 11th Century). Later visit Salihundam Buddhist site ( Hinayana & Bhajrajana) Post lunch drive to Visakhapatnam. Enroute visit  Buddhist sites in and around Visakhapatnam, mainly PavuraluKonda, Thotlakonda & Bhavikonda of Hinayana Budhhism. Overnight stay at Visakhapatnam.

Day 8: Visakhapatnam - Vijayawada

After breakfast in the morning, drive to ViJaywada. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Later in the evening, stroll out at market and spend some quality time. Overnight stay at Vijayawada.

Day 9: Vijayawada – Amravati

Morning post breakfast leave for Vijaywad's local sightseeing, start with a visit to the well known Durga temple. It is one of the famous Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Durga. After offering prayers in the temple, head towards Amravati. Here, you can witness the medieval ruins of Buddhist temples and stupas. Thereafter,return back to the hotel. Overnight stay at Vijaywada.

Day 10: Vijayawada - Warangal

Today after breakfast in the morning, drive to Warangal. On arrival check in hotel. Later proceed toward Pakhal Lake which is a man-made lake in the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary in Warangal district. One can witness tiger, bear, leopard, etc. in the sanctuary and have a lifetime experience. Overnight stay at Warangal.

Day 11: Warangal- Hyderabad

Today morning after breakfast, embark on the local sightseeing tour of Warangal. In our day tour, pay a visit to Ramappa Temple also known as the Ramalingeswara temple. Further, visit Thousand Pillared Temple. It is located in Hanamkonda is one of the most important parts of the Warangal City and is dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. Afterwards, head towards Warangal Fort which was once the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty. Later, drive toward Hyderabad. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay Hyderabad.

Day 12: Hyderabad - Nagarjunkonda – Hyderabad

After breakfast in the morning, we will leave for a day tour to Nagarjunkonda, popular for its Buddhist temple remains and museum. It is a famous historical Buddhist town now an island nested near Nagarjuna Sagar in Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh state in India. Later, we will return back in Hyderabad for a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 13: Hyderabad - Departure

On the last day of our tour, visit the Golconda Fort. Situated in the western part of Hyderabad city, this hilltop fort is listed among one of the major tourist attractions. It was originally known as Mankal. After exploring the fort, get direct transfer to the airport to board flight for Delhi. On reaching Delhi, get direct transfer to Delhi international airport to board flight for onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into “Buddhist Trail” and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Buddha Patha(14N/15D)

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

On arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi, after immigration clearance you will be greeted by our representative in the arrival hall, who will escort you to your hotel and assist you in check-in. Depending of arrival time embark on a sightseeing tour of Delhi. Begin with exploring the Old City of Delhi, where Mughal art and architecture still survive in the narrow lanes lined with havelis, mosques and food stalls serving authentic Mughlai food, an integral part of Indian cuisine. Discover the Imperial New Delhi showcasing spacious, tree-lined boulevards and noteworthy buildings. Visit the Connaught Place (CP). Overnight stay in Delhi

Day 2: Delhi – Gorakhpur

After relaxing morning embark on a combined sightseeing tour of the famous historical sights in Old and New Delhi. Visit Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Raj Ghat and the 72 m high Qutub Minar tower. Drive past the Red Fort, Jama Mosque, Rajpath, India Gate, Parliament House and the Presidential Estate. This evening you are transferred from the hotel to the Railway Station in time to board your train to Gorakhpur. Overnight on board the train.

Day 3: Gorakhpur – Kapilvastu – Lumbini

On arrival at the Gorakhpur Railway Station, meet our representatiove and drive to Lumbini (135 kms - 4 hours) via Kapilvastu. On arrival check in at your hotel . Later after a short relaxation visit the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini with its ruins of many ancient stupas and monasteries. A large stone pillar erected by the Indian emperor Ashoka in 250 BC bears an inscription about the birth of the Buddha. Visit the temple of Maya Devi which has a stone image of Maya Devi giving birth to Lord Buddha as she holds onto a branch. Also visit the sacred Pond and the Temple of Lord Buddh. Overnight stay in Lumbini.

Day 4: Lumbini – Kushinagar

Today morning post breakfast drive to Kushinagar. Visit Kushinagar where Buddha breathed his last. Pay your respects at the remains of his brick cremation Stupa. Also see the large, reclining Buddha figure in Mahaparinirvana temple, the modern Indo - Japan - Sri Lanka Buddhist centre and the monasteries. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 5: Kushinagar – Vaishali – Patna

Morning after breakfast depart from Kushinagar to Patna (225 kms - 8 hours) en route visiting Vaishali. At Vaishali watch the Ashoka Pillar; Anand Stupa, the first discipline of Lord Buddha; and the Monkey tank. On arrival at Patna, check-in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Patna.

Day 6: Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya

This day morning drive from Patna to Bodhgaya, en route visiting Nalanda and Rajgir. Nalanda is a celebrated monastic establishment visited by Buddha, Mahavira and later by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. By the 7th century, Nalanda became the outstanding centre of Mahayana Buddhist learning, a famous university, with shrines and monasteries that attracted scholars from all over India, South East Asia and China. By the 12th - 13th centuries, as Buddhism declined in the region and Muslim influence increased, Nalanda fell into disuse and was eventually abandoned. Visit the archaeological Museum which has an invaluable collection of sculptures and bronzes. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 7: Bodhgaya - On to Gaya

Today sets off on a full day visit to Bodhgaya and Gaya. Bodhgaya, the place where Buddha attained enlightenment is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the world. The focal point of this place is the Mahabodhi tree, the tree under which Buddha attained wisdom' while the Temple marking the sacred spot is known as Mahabodh Temple. Overnight at Bodhgaya.

Day 8: Bodhgaya – Varanasi

Today morning post breakfast, drive from Bodhgaya to Varanasi. Varanasi, located on the banks of the River Ganga, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and also the holiest of Hindu pilgrimages. Sarnath, located close by, is where Buddha preached his first sermon. Lord Mahavir also revealed his Jain Philosophy at nearby Kasi. On arrival, check-in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 9: Varanasi

At the sun rise embark boat ride on the river Ganges. After breakfast at your hotel, proceed for a city tour of Varanasi visiting to the numerous temples and the bazaars. In the afternoon, visit the buried city of Sarnath, north east of Varanasi. After attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya, Buddha came to Sarnath to preach his message of the way to Nirvana. Later, Ashoka, erected magnificent Stupas and monasteries at Sarnath. See the ruins of a once flourishing Buddhist monastery and a fine museum which houses an excellent collection of Buddhist art and sculptures. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 10: Varanasi - Bhubaneswar

Today morning after breakfast transferred from your hotel to the airport in time for your onward flight to Bhubaneswar. On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha State Museum( Close on Monday) a store house of lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Buddhist archaeological sites of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 11 : Bhubaneshwar – Ratnagiri,Lalitgiri & Udayagiri

Today post breakfast set out for a full day Excursion to Lalitigiri (Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) it’s Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budha’s relic is available. Later visit Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of the sculptors of the Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Proceed to Udaygiri, another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation.The sites of Ratnagiri-Udayagiri & Lalitgiri was called Pushpagiri and regarded as a place for Kalachakra Tantra of Buddhism and also explores the engraved elephant at Langudi. Later, drive back to Bhubaneswar. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 12: Bhubaneswar

After a refreshing morning, visit the Old Town area to experience the temple architecture of Visit of Parasurameswar Temple (7th Century AD.), Mukteswar Temple(10th Century AD.), Rajarani  Temple ( 11th Century AD.) and Lingaraj Temple ( 11th Century AD).Visit the Lingaraj temple from the platform and also visit Vaital temple. In the afternoon, visit the Jain caves – Khandagiri and Udayagiri. Overnight stay in Bhubaneswar.

Day 13 : Bhubaneswar – On to Konark & Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Dhauli Peace Pagoda famous for the Ashokan rock edicts dating back to 2nd century B:C, Visit Pipli -The colourful applique Village where you can see the colouful Odishan handicrafts. Later proceed to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. On arrival check into Hotel. Evening free at Leisure. Overnight stay at the Puri.

Day 14: Puri

This morning visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Visit the temple from the Rooftop (N.B.: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the Temple). Later Visit various temples & maths in and around Puri. Afternoon is free and you may visit the long stretch of golden beach, shallow enough to walk out a long distance, with superb surf. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 15: Puri – Departure

In the morning head towards Bhubaneswar airport for your onward journey. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into “Buddhist Cluster” and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Buddhist Monasteries East Himalayas(15N/16D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Odisha State Museum( Close on Monday) a store house of lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Buddhist archaeological sites of Odisha. Later visit Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 2 : Bhubaneshwar – Ratnagiri,Lalitgiri & Udayagiri

Today post breakfast set out for a full day Excursion to Lalitigiri (Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) it’s Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budha’s relic is available. Later visit Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of the sculptors of the Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Proceed to Udaygiri, another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation.The sites of Ratnagiri-Udayagiri & Lalitgiri was called Pushpagiri and regarded as a place for Kalachakra Tantra of Buddhism and also explores the engraved elephant at Langudi. Later, drive back to Bhubaneswar. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 3: Bhubaneswar

After a refreshing morning, visit the Old Town area to experience the temple architecture of Parasurameswar Temple (7th Century AD.), Mukteswar Temple(10th Century AD.), Rajarani  Temple ( 11th Century AD.) and Lingaraj Temple ( 11th Century AD).Visit the Lingaraj temple from the platform and also visit Vaital temple. In the afternoon, visit the Jain caves – Khandagiri and Udayagiri. Overnight stay in Bhubaneswar.

Day 4 : Bhubaneswar – On to Konark & Puri

Morning after breakfast visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda, famous for Asokan Rock Edicts and Place where the battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Dhauli Peace Pagoda famous for the Ashokan rock edicts dating back to 2nd century B:C, Visit Pipli -The colourful applique Village where you can see the colouful Odishan handicrafts. Later proceed to the famous temple at Konark. See the beautiful Sun temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God. Its exquisite carvings, the life-size statues of Lions and Elephants, colossal figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and the case-all testify to the high standard of ancient Indian art and architectural skill. On arrival check into Hotel. Evening free at Leisure. Overnight stay at the Puri.

Day 5: Puri

This morning visit the Lord Jagannath Temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of Odisha architecture. Visit the temple from the Rooftop (N.B.: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the Temple). Later Visit various temples & maths in and around Puri. Afternoon is free and you may visit the long stretch of golden beach, shallow enough to walk out a long distance, with superb surf. Later visit Raghurajpur, a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings and is an example of stellar craftsmanship. Your visit won’t be completed without witnessing the gracious Odissi & Goti Pua Dance. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 6: Puri – Bagdogra – Gangtok

In the morning head towards Bhubaneswar airport for your flight to Bagdogra. On arrival meet our representative at exit gate, assist to transfer to Gangtok. Check in at hotel and Overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 7: Gangtok

Today morning after breakfast go for a half day sightseeing covering Droul Chorthen, Research Institute of Tibetology, Deer Park, Flower Show, Enchey Monastery & Nam Nam view point, Enchey and Rungtek Monastery, Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms. The rest of the day will be leisure for you. Overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 8: Gangtok- Tsangu Lake

Post breakfast, you will visit the consecrated and serene lake of Tshangu which remains frozen during the majority of the year. During summer it’s cool water perfectly attuned with scenic beauty when Iris, Poppies, Primulas and Rhododendrons bloom on the banks of it. Overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 9: Gangtok – Pemayangtse

Today after breakfast transfer to Pemayangtse via Sikking Temi Tea garden and on the way Rabangla. On arrival Pemayantse check in at hotel. Evening take a pleasant walk enjoying the sun set over Mt.Khangchendzonga. Overnight stay at Pelling.

Day 10 : Pelling

Today morning after breakfast go for full day sightseeing covering Rimbi Waterfalls, Rimbi Hydel Project, Khecheopari Lake & Kanchenjunga Falls. Post lunch visit Pemayangtse Monastery,Change Falls, Singsor Bridge and Dentam village( Includes Alpine Cheese Factory) . Overnight stay at Pelling.

Day 11 : Pelling – Yuksum

Today after breakfast drive to Yuksum. Enroute visit Khecheopalri Lake is one of the sacred Buddhist mountain lake. It is believed whatever is wished in fron of the lake come true.Myth has its theat when a leaf falls on the placid water surface is picked by a bird. Later drive to Yuksum( the meeting place of three monks)- the first capital of Sikkim. Overnight stay at Yuksum.

Day 12 : Yuksum

Today early morning trek 35 minutes to Dhubdi Monastery-The oldest monastery in Sikking, built in 1700 AD and Tashi Namgyal- The stone throne for the first king. Evening at leisure. Overnight at Yuksum.

Day 13: Yuksum – Kalimpong

Today after breakfast drive to Kalimpong. Check in at hotel. Afternoon visit flower Nurseries, Durbin Dara Hills & Durbin monastery. Overnight stay at Kalimpong.

Day 14 : Kalimpong – Darjeeling

Morning after breakfast drive towards Darjeeling. Enroute you can enjoy the river rafting. On arrival at Darjeeling and check in at hotel. Refresh yourselves and then take a ride in the toy train while watching underneath the hills of Darjeeling. A great retreat for summers was in Darjeeling for British people during their rule. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

Day 15: Darjeeling

Early in refreshing morning ( by 4 am) drive towards the Tiger Hill on the top of 9000 feet, where you will view the stupendous sunrise over Kanchenjunga peak( Subject to crear weather). Way back visit the Ghoom Monanstery & Batasia Loop of Darjeeling. Post breakfast visit to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute( Closed on Thursday), Tenzing & Gombu Rock, Tibetan Refugee self-helf centre( Closed on Sunday) & Tea Estate. Overnight stay at Darjelling.

Day 16: Darjeeling – Bagdogra - Departure

Post breakfast, check out from the hotel and drop at Bagdogra to board your flight towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into “Buddhist Cluster” and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.

Rural Tour Odisha & Chattishgarh(20N/21D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Bhubaneswar

On arrival at Biju Pattnaik International Airport you will be met by Insight Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel, where you will be assisted with the check in. Bhubaneswar, though modern in design by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BC and earlier. Get enraptured by a myriad of tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar ranging from monuments of ancient history, breathtaking temple architecture & Buddhist sites, art & craft villages, museums and artefacts that never ceases to amaze. Depending on your arrival time, explore Tribal Museum( Close on Monday), Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, Ekamra Haat Crafts market & try some local delicacies. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar Sightseeing

After relaxing morning our Guide meets you at hotel Lobby. Start your tour by exploring temple architectures in Old Town including Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘Gem of Odia Architecture’ ) and Rajarani temple. Post lunch visit Buddhist Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills where Emperor Ashoka resorted to Buddhism after Kaling War in 261 B.C. Later visit Hirapur – 64 Yogini shrine dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. Drive to Puri-– The Sacred Land of Yogis, famous for ancient monuments, breathtaking temple architecture, art & craft villages & relaxing Golden Beach. On arrival check in to Hotel. Evening stroll at Beach Road. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 3 : Dhenkanal – Nuapatna –Sadeibarani – Joranda –Dhenkanal

Start the day with a excursion to Nuapatna, where the weavers specialize in ‘Ikat’ or Tie n Dye method to skilfully create magical handloom fabrics. Later proceed to Sadeibarini, where crafted out of metal through indigenous methods, the distinctive design and form of Dhokra craft reflects the inherent expression of the feelings of the tribal community engaged for generations. At the dawn visit Joronda. From a folk cult of the tribal and down trodden people of the feudatory states of Odisha, the Mahima Dharm of Joranda has developed into a cult. The supreme master, according to the followers, is without attributes, colour, shape, destruction, beginning or end. He is identical with the void. Back to Dhenkanal Palace. Enroute visit Karamula wood carving & tribal jewellery craft. Overnight at Dehnkanal.

Day 4: Dhenkanal-Heerapur-Pipli-Konark

Morning is at leisure to opt out nature walk, cycling & angeling. Later visit the unique sixty four yogini temple amidst the peaceful surrounding. Also visitn visit the Bell metal worker Village at balakati.Post dunch drive to Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Overnight stay at Konark.

Day 5: Konark-Raghurajpur-Puri

Morning after breakfast experience and enthralled at architecture & sculpture depicted in Sun Temple Konark. The 13th century Temple conceived as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heavens is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the fishermen’s village. Interact with them to understand the Boat & Net culture. Drive along marine drive to a artisan and painter village Raghurajpur. Get mesmerised by Gotipua dance. Proceed to Puri. On arrival checkin at a beach side hotel. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 6: Puri-Local sightseeing

IToday morning after breakfast take a heritage walk with cycle rickshaw ride. Visit the holy town covering old buildings, water tanks, craft centers, small shrines. Also visit the great Jagannath temple. Later visit some villages inside Puri like Kumbharpada- temple pottery village, Pathuria sahi stone carver village, chitrakar sahi-painter village. Enjoy the sunset walk along the beach market. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 7: Puri-Chilika lagoon-Rambha

After a refreshing morning takea short drive to Mangalajodi to enjoy the boat ride in the lap of Chilika lagoon-Largest brack water lagoon in Asia and Ramsar site. Later drive to Rambha On Chilika lake & check in at hotel. Watch some migratory birds and residential birds while doing country boat ride into the various creeks. Experience the boat making workshop at nearby village. Late afternoon take a short catamaran ride in the lake. Overnight stay at Rambha.

Day 8 : Rambha – Taptapani – Jirang- Soura Village- Rayagada

Morning post breakfast set out by road to Jirang village at Chandragiri. The major attraction is the Padmasambhava Monastery popularly known as the Jirang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Eastern India. The monastery was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. It is a residence cum college for budding Buddhist monks who come from all over India here to study. Experience their carpet making work shop before leaving towards Taptapani. Later drive along greeneries for the healing touch of Taptapani Hot Sulphure. – A Marvel of nature also known for its natural hot sulphur springs with medicinal properties. Check in at Hotel & Over night stay at Taptapani .

Day 9: Taptapani - Lanjia Saura Village-Rayagada

Enroute visit the Aryan tribal village popularly known as Lanjia saura. Explore their life style during hiking of their village. Their main occupation is farming on traditional way as they use the wooden plough, hoe etc. Visit to the Shaman house as well to see the rare mud wall painting. On arrival at Rayagada Check in at hotel. Overnight at Rayagada.

Day 10: Kutia kondh village-Rayagada

Morning depart early for Kotagad region to meet Kutia kondh tribes who are tattoo faced . These community assembly at their weekly market, also visit their villages. Later drive to Dukum region to make soft trek to different villages like pottery maker village, tribal jewellary maker village,Desia Kondh villages. Back to the hotel at Rayagada for a comfortable stay.or in the basic tent in Bissamcuttcak region.

Day 11: Rayagada - Chatikona – Tribal Musuem-Koraput (Must Be Wednesday)

Early morning after breakfast drive down to Chatikona to watch the interesting colorful weekly market of Kondh tribes. This tribe is one of the most primitive tribe of the Kondh's they live in the high slopes of the Niyamagiri Hills. These people are horticulturists. They grow fruits like Orange, Pineapple, Banana etc. The male people of this community also wear ear rings, nose rings, and keep their hair as women. Later proceed to Jeypore enroute visiting some villages of Paroja tribes. On arrival at Koraput visit the tribal museum. Check in at hotel. Evening visit to the hilltop Jagannath temple, where the ritual performed on tribal chants . Overnight stay at Koraput.

Day 12 : Koraput-Ounkadeli- Lamptaput

After early breakfast proceed to Ounkadelli - 70 km to witness the most primitive, interesting & unique tribal weekly market of the Bonda tribes. The place is the border of the  neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, divided by river Machkund, with interest waterfall, mountain & forest. You will be taken inside for about 2/3km walk to witness the Bonda man & woman coming down from the forest side. It is being considered that at present Bondas are the most primitive tribe of India or otherwise known as the Nakate tribes of the mountain. Bonda women with their silver & brass rings around the neck, hundred of necklaces on the body, shaved hair a small cloth wrapped down to cover half of the private areas are out of any history book. In the other side the Bonda men with their bow & arrow with country made liquor. Also meet gadaba, didayi tribes in this market.Photography in the market is restricted, so you can take photo on this time. Later enjoy the lunch at desia rural tourism center and check in at the holiday home. Post lunch trek to a mali village. Overnight stay at Desia,Lamtaput .

Day 13: Desia- On to Gadaba village

Today morning start your trek to various tribal villages of paraja, harijan, rana , mali , gadaba tribes which are nicely dotted with amazing landascape. Post lunch the trek continues to Bantalabiri gadaba village to enjoy the traditional dhemsa dance with the community. Overnight stay at Desia.

Day 14: Desia- On to Dhuruba village

This morning after breakfast take a short drive to Gupteswar to visit the secret cave shrine for the tribal god. Enjoy the jungle trek along the river side to meet Dhuruba tribes at their village. Later visit the colourful market of Dhuruba , Bhumia tribes and drive back to Desia. Evening enjoy the tribal songs along the bonfire.

Day 15: Desia -Kotapad - Jagdalpur

Morning after breakfast drive to Kotpad known for unique fabric out of it’s rich vegetable dyed reds, browns and blacks with motifs woven by the Mirgan community. Experience the live demonstration of weaving. Drive crossed the boarder of Odisha and reach Jagdalpur. Enjoy the spectacular Chitrakoot waterfall,Bastar’s very own ‘Nigara’ on the Indravati River. Later visit the muria tribal market and their villages. Check int at Resort & Overnight stay at Jagdalpur.

Day 16: Jagdalpur – Tokapal market

After breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour of Jagdalpur. Visit the Anthropological Museum which is known to present an interesting insight into Bastar’s tribal culture. Visit some of the local Bison-Horn Maria tribe, renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dancing. Stroll around Kumhapara for wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, terracota, bell metal items, wrought iron items and cotton fabrics( Kosa sari etc). Later visit Tokapal tribal market. Evening get entertained by a performance of the tribal people, before returning to your hotel. Overnight at Jagdalpur.

Day 17: Jagdalpur – Kondagaon – Kanker

Today after breakfast drive towards Kondagaon to visit matel casting craftmen at their village. Then after drive towards Muria Tribe village and camping near at their Gotul Dormitory house. Continue your tour to Kanker. Check in with conventional welcome at Kanker Palace. Evening enjoy the cultural programme, where the royal family joins to impart their experiences into the life of the locale. Over night at Kanker.

Day 18: Kanker – Rajim – Bhoramdeo ( Wednesday)

Today mornig after breakfast, drive towards Rajim to visit the marvellous temples and other exquisite shrines. Enroute enjoy the drive through the zig zag trail of the Keshkal hills towards Bhoramdeo and check in at hotel. After refreshment, explore the grand Bhoramdeo shiva temple-11th century AD. Overnight stay in Bhoramdeo.

Day 19: Bhoramdeo

After having breakfast, take the full day visit to village of Baiga tribes & Gond tribal villages nearby. Observe their typical livelihood and working lifestyle. They depend on coarse food like Kodo, Kutki, Pej and so on. They practice shifting cultivation in the areas of forest. You will visit the Bodla weekly market. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay at Bhoramdeo.

Day 20: Bhoramdeo-Taregaon weekly market- Raipur

Today morning free at leisure. Later take an excursion to Taregaon weekly market for baiga tribes. Visit their villages. Later drive to Ripur & Check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Raipur

Day 21: Raipur-Departure

Today is the day to bid farewell of your Treasure tour. Post breakfast drive to Raipur. Vist Mahant Ghasidas Museum to witness the extensive collection of artifacts that date from the 2nd to the 10th century. Many of these artifacts have been found from the excavations in the surrounding areas of Chhattisgarh. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore the Rural Cultur of incredible India with us.

Treasures of Andhra & Odisha(11N/12D)

Day 1: Arrival Vijayawada

On arrival at Vijayawada Airport, meet our tour representative who assists to transfer & Check in at the hotel and take pleasure of a relaxing overnight stay in Vijaywada.

Day 2: Vijayawada

Today morning after breakfast, leave for the local sightseeing tour of Vijaywada. Visiting Mangalagiri Panakala Narsimhaswamy Temple. This temple is located on the hill and is listed among one of the eight Vaishnava Kshetram that are self manifested. After exploring this beautiful temple, head towards Undavalli Caves that are regarded as a gigantic example of Indian rock-cut architecture. Located in Undavalli of Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh state in India, these caves were made out of solid sandstone on a hillside in the 4th to 5th centuries A.D. Thereafter, cross through Prakasam Barrage, which is long stretch across the Krishna River connecting Guntur and Krishna districts and afterwards visit Bhavani Island. Located in the midst of the Krishna River at Vijayawada, the island lies at the upstream of Prakasam Barrage and is regarded as one of the largest river island with 133 acres of area. Later in the evening, pay a visit to Durga Temple which is located at Indrakeeladri. Overnight stay in Vijayawada.

Day 3: Vijayawada – Rajahmundry

Today morning after breakfast, check out from the hotel in Vijayawada and drive to Rajahmundry. En-route, visit Penugonda Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari Temple, which is the birth place of Vasavi Matha. It enshrines the triple deities- Sri Nagareswaraswamy, Mahishasuramardini and Mother Kanyakaparameswari. Afterwards, head towards Ryali Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy Temple that has a shrine of Sri Jagan Mohini Keshava Swamy which is made up of single stone (Salagrama Ekashila - 5 feet height and 3ft width). The idol in the temple looks like Sri Vishnu (male) from front side and as Mohini (female) from rear side. Further, we will head towards Draksharamam Bheemeswara Swamy Temple. This temple is listed among one of the five powerful temples of Lord Siva and is known as Pancharama Kshetras. Later in the evening, reach at our final destination for the day i.e. Rajahmundry. On arrival, check in at hotel and overnight stay in Rajmundry.

Day 4: Rajahmundry – Bhadrachalam boating

This morning start our day a bit early in the morning today and check out from the hotel in Rajahmundry to drive to Polavaram revu/ Pattiseema revu / Purushothapatnam Revu, which is about 35 km away. On reaching, board the boat from here and have breakfast in the boat itself. Afterwards, we will enjoy boat journey and head towards Bhadrachalam. On the way, visit Posammagandi, Polavaram, Devipatnam, Papi Hills (Papi Kondalu) and Perantapalli Village. Afterwards, enjoy vegetarian Lunch in the boat. Thereafter, travel to Koida or Pochavaram from Perantapalli by small boat. From Koida or Pochavaram, drive to Bhadrachalam, which is about 85 km away. On reaching, check in at hotel and overnight stay in Bhadrachalam.

Day 5: Bhadrachalam – Dwaraka Tirumala – Rajahmundry (230 km)

Today morning, again start the day a bit early in the morning and visit Seetha Ramachandra Swamy Temple, a famous temple devoted to Lord Rama. Visit Parnasala, a village located in the Dummugudem mandal in the Khammam district of Telangana in India and is about 40 km away. Thereafter, return back to Bhadrachalam and check out from the hotel to drive to Dwaraka Tirumala. En-route, visit Maddi Anjaneya Swamy Temple. Nested at Guruvaigudem in West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh state in India, the temple is one of the famous temples of Lord Hanuman. Further, visit Lord Venkateswara Temple. It is a landmark vaishnavite temple located in the hill town of Tirumala at Tirupati in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The Temple is devoted to Lord Venkateswara, a living form of Vishnu. Afterwards, proceed to Rajahmundry, our final destination for the day. On reaching, check in at the hotel and overnight stay in Rajahmundry.

Day 6: Rajahmundry - Annavaram - Visakhapatnam (200 km)

Morning after breakfast visit Satyanaraya Swamy Temple and perform Vratham. It is located on the Ratnagiri hill. Afterwards, we will head towards Visakhapatnam. On reaching, check in at the pre-booked hotel and rest for some time. Later in the evening, leave for the local sightseeing of Visakhapatnam. In our sightseeing tour, visit Kailasagiri which is a hilltop park in the city of Visakhapatnam that overlooks beaches and forests. Further, we will visit Submarine Museum that is set up at the Rama Krishna Beach in Visakhapatnam. It is the first submarine that tuned up into a museum in Asia and second in the World. Thereafter, head towards RK Beach. The Rama Krishna Mission Beach is one of the most famous beach parks in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It gets its name from the Ramakrishna Mission ashrama located across the Beach Road from the park. After spending some quality time here, return back to the hotel for an overnight stay in Vishakhapatnam (Visakhapatnam).

Day 7: Visakhapatnam-Araku-Visakhapatnam

After morning breakfast, leave from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley. On the way, we will be visiting Borra Caves also named as Borra Guhalu in Telugu language. The caves are one of the largest in the country located at a height of about 2,313.0 ft. It distinctly exhibits a wide range of speleothems ranging in size and irregularly shaped stalactites and stalagmites. After exploring the beautiful Borra caves, we will continue our drive to Araku Valley and explores its beautiful surroundings. Thereafter, drive back to Visakhapatnam for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 8: Visakhapatnam – Srikakulam – Gopalpur On Sea

Morning after breakfast, visit Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple, a temple located at the top of the hill. Further, head towards Srikakulam for a day tour. Visit the Sun Temple at Arasavelli, a temple dedicated to the Hindu solar deity Surya. Further, visit Srikurmam Temple. This temple is devoted to Sri Kurmanatha, the second avatar of Lord Vishnu, Kurma Avatar (Tortoise). Also visit Srimukhalingeswara Temple, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterwards, proceed towards Gopalpur On Sea, one of finest beach destination with serene, blue and breathtaking and make you feel like European destination. On arrival check in to Hotel & over night stay at Gopalpur.

Day 9: Gopalpur - Puri

Today morning stroll on the beach & watch busy fishermen’s boat & net culture. After a relaxing morning drive towards Puri. Enroute visit Chilika at Barkul. Take a boat ride to explore the natural beauty of the lake. Later drive to Puri. On arrival check in to Beach side hotel. Overnight stay at Puri.

Day 10: Puri -On to Konark & Raghurajpur

Today morning after breakfast begin your exploration with a historic tour to Black Pagoda-Sun Temple at Konark conceived in 13th century as a massive chariot hauling the Sun God across the heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stand Enthralled by its architectural & sculptural marvels. Visit the Archaeological Museum(Closed on Friday) to experience vast collections of Sculptures, artefacts & more then 250 antiques recovered from present temple. Visit the Fishermen’s Village & experience their pivotal daily life with fishing boat & net. Later drive towards Raghurajpur is a Heritage Craft village where the entire community is involved in making Pattachitra Palm Leaf engravings & Odishi & Gotipua dance forms, which are examples of rich craftsmanship & culture. Your tour doesn’t complete without witnessing Jagannath Temple. ( Non Hindus are not allowed into the premises of Temple). The 12th century Jagannath Temple at Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath –“The Lord of the Universe” where yogis and devotees throng to seek forgiveness, to seek blessing. The chariots of the divine siblings, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, pulled by devotees through the grand road in the famous Rath Yatra in every July.

Day 11: Puri - Bhubaneswar

Today morning after breakfast drive to Bhubaneswar. Enroute visit Pipili, a centre for appliqué work, which depicts the essence of Odia culture. Take a stroll through the colourful market. Proceed further to visit Buddhist Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hills where Emperor Ashoka resorted to Buddhism after Kaling War in 261 B.C. Later visit Hirapur – 64 Yogini shrine dating back to the 9th century AD which gives a glimpse of the religious and occult practices of medieval times. On arrival at Bhubaneswar visit temple of architectural marvel i.e. Lingaraj, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar ( know as the ‘Gem of Odia Architecture’ ) and Rajarani temple. Check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Bhubaneswar.

Day 12: Bhubaneswar Departure

On the last day of our tour, we will have breakfast in the morning and afterwards depending on your departure time, explore Tribal Museum( Close on Monday), Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves, get direct transfer to the airport to board train or flight for onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore the East Coast Trails of incredible India with us.

Cultural Tour in South India(15N/16D)

Southern India is a sacred natural wonder because the places here are not only awe-inspiring but also captivate the visitors with their culture, history and spirituality, which are magnificently reflected through its beautiful temples and marvelous monuments. Visit to the various alluring places like Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Kumbakonam, Tanjore, Rameshwaram and many other places form the itinerary. The 24 days and 23 nights tour package will help you to discover your spiritual side. The package includes a visit to all the wonderful temples sprinkled across South India like the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Pallava Temple, Brihadeeswarar Temple, Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple and so on. The tour will certainly offer you a spiritual enlightenment and pleasurable memories.  Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Bhubaneswar, The Capital of Odisha –India’s Best Kept Secret.

Day 1: Arrive Chennai

Arrive at Chennai International Airport. Meet our represantative at arrival gate and transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 2: Chennai

Today morning after breakfast set out for a full day city tour of Chennai-the capital city, popularly regarded as the 'Gateway to the South' represents a culture that is distinctly different from that of northern India. The places of interest are Kalakshetra, a school of art and music that encourages exponents of Bharatanatyam, Karnatic music, traditional weaving and designing; Fort St. George built in 1653 during British reign in India, now houses the Secretariat and Legislative Assembly of Tamil Nadu; St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India with its premises; Sri Parthasarathy Temple built by the Pallavas in the 8th century AD; Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore also an eighth century Pallava Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva; St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica rebuilt in 1606 as a cathedral and in 1896 it was made a basilica; and Theosophical Society - the world headquarters of the Theosophical Society formed to encourage the study of comparative religion philosophy and science. Evening transfer to hotel. Overnight at Chennai.

Day 3: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram

Today post breakfast drive to Kanchipuram, 70 kms west of Mahabalipuram which is a city of thousand temples. One of the seven sacred cities of Hindus, Kanchipuram was the capital of the early Cholas up to the 2nd century BC. Kanchi was a major seat of Tamil learning as well as an important place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, Jains and Hindus. Apart from temples, the city is also famous for its silk weavers, who settled here some 400 years ago and have given it an enviable reputation. Later on we shall proceed to Mahabalipuram, driving south of Chennai on the coast which is the ancient port of Pallavas. The pallavas have created many marvellous monuments with sculptural panels, caves, Monolithic Rathas and Temples. Krishna Mandapam has a big bas relief, notable for its realistic representation. The world's largest bas relief measuring 27m x 9m, whale back shaped rock contains figures of gods, demi-gods, men beasts, birds and representation of the entire creation. Shore Temple, one of the oldest in south dating back to 8th century AD is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in Dravidian style. The Five Rathas are a group of five monolithic temples, each created in different style. Later Check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Mahabalipuram.

Day 4: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry (135 Km)

Morning post breakfast drive to Pondicherry. In the afternoon city tour of Pondicherry. Although the French influence is gradually fading, Pondicherry retains a few Gallic accents. Pondicherry's main sights are the Raj Niwas, the Sacred Heart Church and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The ashram retreat was founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo after whose death the spiritual authority passed to one of his disciples, a French woman known as the Mother. The Mother was also instrumental in founding the city of Dawn Auroville, 10 km from Pondicherry. Its original charter aimed at creating a city of the future where people from India and abroad could live and work together in a spiritual environment. Evening Check in hotel. Overnight stay at Pondicherry.

Day 5: Pondicherry - Chidambaram (64 Km) - Kumbakonam (78 Km)

This day after breakfast drive to Kumbakonam, en-route visit Chidambaram, the seat of the Cosmic Dancer; dedicated to Lord Nataraja. Spread over an area of 40 acres with a gopuram on each side, the temple is distinguished by the five sabhas or counts. The towering gopurams, the tallest one on the north is 42.4 m are carved on it with 108 dance poses of Bharatanatyam. Further continue drive to Kumbakonam, one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is famous for its Mahamaham festival. In the 7th Century it was the Capital of Chola Kings. Kumbakonam, the famous temple town of South India, is picturesquely located amidst the two rivers, Cauvery & Arasalar. On arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit the temple of Kumbakonam. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6: Kumbakonam - Tanjore (40 Km) - Trichy (60 Km)

Today morning drive to Trichy, en-route visit Tanjore. The home of Carnatic music, musical instruments, dance and traditional handicrafts, Tanjore (Thanjavur) is famous for the Brihadeeswarar Temple. The temple constructed more than a thousand years ago by the Chola King Raja Rajan is an architect's marvel. The Art Gallery and the Saraswathi Mahal Library are also well known places of interest. Further drive to Trichy. On arrival check in at the hotel. After fresh-n-up visit Srirangam, which is an island, 5 kms from Trichy. Surrounded by the Kaveri water is a 600 acres island town enclosed within the seven walls on the gigantic Sri Ranganathaswamy temple. There are no less than 22 gopurams, one of which is the tallest in India. The 72 m high 13 tiered gopuram dominates the landscape for miles around. The Rock Fort situated on the banks of the Kaveri River, Trichy's most famed landmark is 84 m high rock, one of the oldest in the world approx 3,800 million years. The attraction is not for fort itself but the temple at the summit. 344 steps hewn out of rock lead to the top where are the inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Overnight stay at Trichy.

Day 7: Trichy - Rameshwaram

After a relaxing morning drive to Rameshwaram, the most sacred pilgrimage destinations of India. No pilgrimage is over without taking a trip to this holy island of Rameshwaram. Rameshwaram, as it is said, is the place where Lord Rama offered thanks to Lord Shiva in return for his support in defeating King Ravana. This makes Rameshwaram an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Situated in the Ramanathapuram of Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram is home to some of the most fascinating temples in entire India. This island in the Gulf of Mannar is connected to the mainland at Mandapam by Indira Gandhi Bridge. Completed in the year 1988, this was considered as an engineering marvel, a feat unparalleled at that time. Ramanathaswamy, this magnificent temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas situated in different parts of India. Ramanathaswamy Temple also has its name in history books as it has the largest hallway anywhere in India. The construction of Ramanathaswamy Temple which was started in the 12th century was contributed to by many rulers. During its construction period, many dynasties came and fell and each of them put their input into the temple. The list of unique features in its construction seems to be endless. There is this huge hallway that is of approximately 1220 meters in length. Throughout the length of the hall, there are brilliantly carved pillars, the alignment of which will leave you totally mesmerized. The 54 meter tall Gopuram has become the symbol of divinity in the heart of many pilgrims; such is the beauty and presence of it. On arrival check in at the hotel. The day is at leisure. Overnght stay at Rameswaram

Day 8: Rameshwaram

Today morning proceed on full day temple tour of Rameshwaram, visiting Sri Ramanathaswamy temple. The temple has 22 holy springs which are believed to have medicinal properties. After darshan, visit the Ghanthamathana Parvatham which provides fine views of the island. Later, visit Dhanushkodi -one of the Tirthas in the island of Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, India. This is located beside the ghost town of Dhanushkodi at the eastern most tip of Rameshwaram Island. Rama used his bow's (Dhanush) end (Kodi) to break the bridge - Adam's Bridge (hence the name). This bridge was used for his army to cross over to Lanka for the victorious war against Ravana Later, return to the hotel. Overnight stay at Rameswaram.

Day 9: Rameshwaram - Madurai (170 Km)

Today after breakfast drive to Madurai. On arrival check in at the hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Day 10: Madurai

Post breakfast proceed for full day city tour of Madurai- known as Athens of the East, is the second largest city on the banks of the River Vaigai. The city is believed to be more than 2500 years old. The city got its name from the drops of nectar (Mathuram) that fell from Shiva's locks when he came to bless its people for constructing a temple for him. Madurai where the people wake up at the chant of hymns is proud of the magnificent Meenakshi-Sundareswara Temple. Out of its 12 gopurams, four of the tallest stand at the outer walls of the temple. The 48.8 m high southern gopuram is the most spectacular and have over 1500 sculptures. In the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam inside the Meenakshi temple, the sculpted pillars tell the story of the beautiful princess of Madurai and her marriage to Lord Shiva. Evening transfer to hotel. Overnight stay at Madurai.

Day 11: Madurai - Kanyakumari (244 Km)

Today morning after breakfast drive to Kanyakumari which would take 5 hours. Kanyakumari is the southernmost end of Tamil Nadu, the land's end of India or the point where the three seas meet - the Bay of Bengal, The Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.On arrival check in at the hotel. In the afternoon visit Kumari Amman temple dedicated to the virgin goddess Kanyakumari (Parvati) who stands guard over the country. The temple is built at the spot where the goddess is believed to have waited for her consort Lord Siva. Later visit Gandhi Memorial, constructed at the spot where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were kept for public view in an urn before a portion was immersed into the three seas. Visit Vivekananda Memorial built on the Vivekananda Rock where the great Philosopher guide Swami Vivekananda went into meditation that transformed him into one of the most charismatic spiritual leader. Overnight stay at Kanyakumari.

Day 12: Kanyakumari - Kovalam (100 Km)

Morning after breakfast drive to Kovalam visiting en-route Padmanabhapuram, (trivandrum 15 km short from Kovalam). The capital of Travancore until 1333, Padmanabhapuram is known for its fort which encloses, among other buildings, a palace and a temple. The palace has some important art relics while the Ramaswamy temple has exquisitely carved panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Later transfer to Kovalam beach town. Check in at Hotel. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Day 13: Kovalam

After a relaxing morning the day is free at leisure & beach activity. Explore the southern most beach – Lighthouse beach, the middle beach – Hawa beach and the northern most beach – Samudra beach.Vizhinjam Lighthouse at Lighthouse Beach offers superb views across to the Kovalam Jama Masjid. The lighthouse dominates the rocky promontory and is quite a captivating sight during moonlit nights. Experience the tremendous joy of surfing, swimming, skiing and kayaking in the vast azure water of Arabian sea which touches the golden sands of Kovalam. You may hire boat from fisherman and set out to catch colorful fishes. Overnight stay at Kovalam

Day 14: Kovalam - Alleppey (170 Km)

Today after sumptuous breakfast drive to Alleppey-famous for its lovely lakes, lagoons and the fresh water rivers. It’s known as the ‘Venice of the East’ for its similarity to the Italian city, Alappuzha’s passion play with water has made it the hub of houseboats and beaches. On arrival board the Houseboat for Cruise; it is the best way to explore the beauty of backwaters, Rest of the day at leisure on the House Boat. Sit back and relax while the boat cruises through the narrow serene backwater canals. In this world of simple pleasures, you’ll skim past ancient Chinese fishing nets; water Lillie’s, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples and coconut groves. Innumerable lagoons, lakes, canals, estuaries and Kuttanad paddy fields. Lunch, Evening Tea/Coffee with snacks, dinner and enjoy your evening .Only disturbance will be twinkle of a shining star or diving of a fish around you to say hello by waving its tail from the lake. Overnight stay in houseboat.

Day 15: Alleppey - Cochin (60 km)

After a relaxing breakfast disembark the houseboat & drive to Cochin.On arrival check into at hotel. After fresh-n-up city sightseeing tour of Cochin. Cochin, Karnataka's commercial centre, has a fine natural harbor. Cochin (Kochi) gateway for Karnataka is famous for Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis Church, Wellington Island, Bolghatty Island, Chinese Fishing nets and Jewish Synagogue. Cruising on the back-waters provides glimpses of the rural life, fine view of the harbour and three islands. Evening show witness the Kathakali Dance Show in an auditorium. Overnight at hotel.

Day 16 : Cochin - Departure

Morning after breakfast is at your leisure. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore the Cultural Tour of Sount India with us.

Heritage of Telengana(7N/8D)

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad

On arrival at Hyderabad airport meet & greet by our representative and transfer to your hotel. Check in at hotel & rest of the day free at leisure.Hyderabad is the capital of Andhra Pradesh and is the fifth largest city in India, being the former seat of one of the world's richest monarchs namely the Nizams. It is a major centre of Islamic culture and is a harmonious amalgam of the South and the North. Hyderabad became famous when the fourth Qutb Shahi ruler, Quli Qutb Shah created this new capital and named it after his Begum - Hyder Mahal. Before the founding of Hyderabad, the QutbShahi kings ruled from the fortress of Golconda - 11 kms to the west. Today, the extensive ruins of the fort, with QutbShahi's tomb, have become principal attractions for tourists. Overnight stay at Hyderabad.

Day 2: Hyderabad

Today post breakfast our guide meets you at your hotel. Later set out for city sightseeing tour of Hyderabad visiting Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort and Birla Temple. The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad are separated by the Hussain Sagar Lake. Overnight stay at hotel.Golconda was once famous for its flourishing trade in diamonds, which has now become a legend of the past. Today tourists visit this palace only to see the ruins. The Salar Jung Museum: This treasure house of art is located on the bank of the river Musa. Acclaimed as one of the finest one-man collections in the world, this museum is named after Mir Yusuf Ali Khan- Salar Jung III- the prime minister of the Nizam, who was a great connoisseur of art. It houses 35,000 exhibits collected from all corners of the world including illuminated manuscripts, bejeweled armories, wood carvings, exquisite cut glass collections etc. The Charminar Situated in the heart of the old walled city, this edifice is the best known landmark with bustling bazaars all round, where a variety of articles like pearls, jewellery, bangles, chandeliers, silks are displayed. It was built in 1591 A.D. by Quli Shah, as a form of talisman to ward off the dreaded epidemic that was ravaging the city. Mecca Masjid: It is the largest mosque situated close to Charminar. It was begun by Qutb Shah in 1614 A.D., but was completed only in 1687 A.D. by the Moghul Emperor - Aurangzeb.Naubat Prabhat: Popularly called Birla Mandir this temple built of pure white marble atop a hill and dedicated to Lord Balaji is a very popular tourist attraction. One can get an excellent view of the twin cities and the lake joining them.

Day 3: Hyderabad - Warangal (100 Km)

Morning after breakfast drive to Warangal. Upon arrival check in to the hotel. After fresh-n-up city sightseeing tour of Warangal.Overnight stay at hotel. Warangal: Warangal was once the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty. The Kakatiyas were the Hindu kings who were patrons of art and architecture. Warangal is described as the "Metropolis of the Kakatiya Dynasty", and the temples built during their reign are fine examples of the Chalukyan style of architecture. The best known among them is the 1000 pillared temple on the slopes of the Hanumakonda hill and the Bhadrakali temple.Another important monument in Warangal is the fort built by the Kakatiyas. It has four decorative gateways of remarkable beauty. The outer walls are built of mud bricks, and the inside is fortified by stone walls in which many carved stones are found. These carved stones are believed to have been taken out of the destroyed Chalukyan temples. The Thousand Pillar Temple: The famous Thousand-Pillar Temple was built in 1163 AD by King Rudra Deva and dedicated to the Gods Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. Bhadrakali Temple: This famous temple of the Kakatiya period is situated on a hillock between Warangal and Hanamakonda. The 2.7 meter tall stone image of the deity is the main attraction. This temple too is built in the Chalukyan style of temple zrchitecture. Ramappa Temple: Marco Polo has described this breathtakingly beautiful temple as the "brightest star in the galaxy of mediaeval temples in the Deccan". Rich, intricate carvings adorn the walls, pillars and ceilings of this marvelous edifice. The temple dates back to 1234 AD and is a Shivalaya.

Day 4: Warangal – Vijayawada (254 Km)

Today after breakfast drive to Vijayawada, en-route visiting Kondapalli Village. Further continue drive to Vijayawada. Upon arrival check into the hotel. Overnight stay at Vijaywada. Kondappalli: The name popular with the 14th century fort of Hindu Rajas. At the foothills, is a small village with the artisans working on the Puniki wood and painting with enamel colors on it. The human figures depict different occupation in the villages, birds and animals, Ambari elephants, mythological subjects like God and Goddesses figures etc with water color paintings. Vijayawada: The name literally means "City of Victory'. It is situated in ideal surroundings between the Krishna River and Budameru, its tributary. The third biggest city in Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is a large railway junction on the Calcutta- Chennai line. It is also the place from which travelers visit the Buddhist centre of Amaravathi.

Day 5: Vijayawada - Nagarjunsagar (190 Km)

This day morning after breakfast enjoy city sightseeing tour of Vijayawada, followed by a drive to Nagarjuna Sagar. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Nagarjun Sagar.

Day 6: Nagarjunsagar - Srisailam (183 Km)

Today morning after breakfast visit the Nagarjunakonda. It was one of the largest and most important Buddhist centres in South India from the 2nd century BC until 3rd century AD. Also visit Nagarjunasagar Dam. One of the earliest hydroelectric projects of India, the Nagarjunasagar Dam is a modern symbol of human triumph over nature. The construction of the dam resulted in the formation of the world's third largest man-made lake. 124 meters high and about 1 Km long is the Nagarjuna Dam one of the largest masonry in the world. The lake, which it straddles, is the third largest manmade lake in the world. On a pylon not too far from the dam, is the image of Nagarjuna, the patron of the ancient city. We will also visit the Ethipothala Waterfalls (11 km) on the Chandravanka river, a tributary of Krishna. A mountain stream named Chandravanka cascades down the hills from a height of 22 m is near the Nagaruna Sagar. The Ethipothala waterfalls are a radiant sight of the power and beauty of nature. The dazzling lagoon formed by the falls has a crocodile breeding centre. Later in the afternoon drive to Srisailam, famous for Brahma Rambha Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, where one of the 12 Joytilingas is situated. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Srisailam

Day 7: Srisailam - Hyderabad (213 Km)

Today morning explore the temple of Srisailam. The shrine of Lord Mallikarjuna picturesquely situated on a flat top of Nallamala Hills, Srisailam is reputed to be one of the most ancient kshetras in India. It is on the right side of the River Krishna in Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh. This celebrated mountain is also named as Siridhan, Srigiri, Sirigiri, Sri Parvatha and Srinagam. It has been a popular centre of Saivite pilgrimage for centuries. The prominence of this Divya Kshetram is highlighted by the fact that while performing our daily household rituals we specify place of location of our existence with reference to Srisailam. Later in the afternoon drive to Hyderabad. Oon arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Hyderabad.

Day 8: Hyderabad Departure

Today after breakfast is at your leisure. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore the Telengana Heritage Tour with us.

Complete Deccan(12N/13D)

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad

On arrival at Hyderabad airport meet & greet by our representative and transfer to your hotel. Check in at hotel & rest of the day free at leisure.Hyderabad is the capital of Andhra Pradesh and is the fifth largest city in India, being the former seat of one of the world's richest monarchs namely the Nizams. It is a major centre of Islamic culture and is a harmonious amalgam of the South and the North.Hyderabad became famous when the fourth Qutb Shahi ruler, Quli Qutb Shah created this new capital and named it after his Begum - Hyder Mahal. Before the founding of Hyderabad, the Qutb Shahi kings ruled from the fortress of Golconda - 11 kms to the west. Today, the extensive ruins of the fort, with Qutb Shahi's tomb, have become principal attractions for tourists. Overnight stay at Hyderabad.

Day 2: Hyderabad

Today post breakfast our guide meets you at your hotel. Later set out for city sightseeing tour of Hyderabad visiting Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort and Birla Temple. The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad are separated by the Hussain Sagar Lake. Overnight stay at hotel. Golconda was once famous for its flourishing trade in diamonds, which has now become a legend of the past. Today tourists visit this palace only to see the ruins. The Salar Jung Museum: This treasure house of art is located on the bank of the river Musa. Acclaimed as one of the finest one-man collections in the world, this museum is named after Mir Yusuf Ali Khan - Salar Jung III - the prime minister of the Nizam, who was a great connoisseur of art. It houses 35,000 exhibits collected from all corners of the world including illuminated manuscripts, bejeweled armories, wood carvings, exquisite cut glass collections etc. The Charminar Situated in the heart of the old walled city, this edifice is the best known landmark with bustling bazaars all round, where a variety of articles like pearls, jewellery, bangles, chandeliers, silks are displayed. It was built in 1591 A.D. by Quli Shah, as a form of talisman to ward off the dreaded epidemic that was ravaging the city. Mecca Masjid: It is the largest mosque situated close to Charminar. It was begun by Qutb Shah in 1614 A.D., but was completed only in 1687 A.D. by the Mughal Emperor - Aurangzeb. Naubat Prabhat: Popularly called Birla Mandir this temple built of pure white marble atop a hill and dedicated to Lord Balaji is a very popular tourist attraction. One can get an excellent view of the twin cities and the lake joining them.

Day 3: Hyderabad - Gulbarga

Today morning after breakfast drive to Gulbarga. It exhibits a delightful synthesis of Hindu and Muslim cultures, as it was occupied successively by both Hindu and Muslim rulers. For the very reason the place upholds fine examples of Islamic as well as Hindu architecture. As a result, the town is visited with equal fervor by both tourists and historians alike. Gulbarga even has remains of a Buddhist culture. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the afternoon visit The Gulbarga fort, a remnant of the Brahmani age has stood the test of time and the remnants of its architecture still make it worth your visit. It was originally built by Raja Gulchand. Later 15 towers were added by Allah-ud-din Bahmani. Also visit the Jama Masjid, built by a Spanish architect in the model of the Cordoba mosque of Spain. The Masjid is built in a peculiar style - the roof is composed of no less than 68 domes. The total area covered by the tomb is simply enormous and you can find mosques, temples, other buildings, towers etc. inside. There are a number of guns stationed in the fort, one of which measures to 25 meters in length. Overnight stay at Gulbarga.

Day 4: Gulbarga - Bijapur

Today morning after breakfast drive to Bijapur. On arrival check in at the hotel. It is one of the largest district in Karnataka state. The city was founded by the Chalukyan dynasty during the 10th century. The city came under Muslim influence towards the end of 13th century and was ruled by various rulers including Allauddin Khilji, Bahamani Sultans and Adil Shahi dynasty. Bijapur experienced a great burst of architectural activity under the Adil Shahi dynasty. The Adil Shahis encouraged building activity to such an extent that the city itself has over 50 mosques, more than 20 tombs and a number of palace. After fresh-n-up city sightseeing tour of Bijapur, visiting Gol Gumbaz, The structure is composed of a cube, 47.5 metres (156 ft) on each side, capped by a dome 44 m in external diameter. "Eight intersecting arches created by two rotated squares that create interlocking pendentives" support the dome. At each of the four corners of the cube, is a dome-capped octagonal tower seven stories high with a staircase inside. The upper floor of each opens on to a round gallery which surrounds the dome. Inside the mausoleum hall, is a square podium with steps on each side. In the middle of the podium, a cenotaph slab on the ground marks the actual grave below, "the only instance of this practice" in the architecture of the Adil Shahi Dynasty. In the middle of the north side, "a large semi-octagonal bay" protrudes out. With an area of 1,700 sq m (18,000 sq ft) the mausoleum has one of the biggest single chamber spaces in the world. We will also visit Ibrahim Rauza and Jumma Masjid, Malik-e-Maidan. Overnight stay at Bijapur.

Day 5: Bijapur - Badami

Today post breakfast drive to Badami, en-route visit Kudala Sangama Temple & Banashankari Temple which Hindu Temples. Further continue drive to Badami. On arrival check into hotel. After fresh-n-up visit Aihole & Pattadakal (World Heritage site) Temples. Return to badami for overnight stay.

Day 6: Badami - Hospet

Today morning after breakfast visit Mahakoota temples and Badami rock cut caves. Later after breakfast drive to Hospet. On arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Hospet.

Day 7: Hospet

After a refreshing morning set out for an excursion to Hampi. Later return to the Hospet. Hampi, the seat of the famed Vijayanagara empire was the capital of the largest empire in post-mughal India, covering several states. The Vijayanagara empire stretched over at least three states - Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. The destruction of Vijayanagar by Mughal invaders was sudden, shocking and absolute. Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi of the 14th Century lies scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Protected by the river Tungabhadra in the north and rocky granite ridges on the other three sides, the ruins silently narrate the story of grandeur splendor and fabulous wealth. The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tells a tale of man's infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction. A visit to Hampi is a sojourn into the past. Most of the important structures and ruins are located in two areas, which are generally referred to as the Royal Centre and the Sacred Centre. A visit to Anegundi village by traversing the gushing Tungabhadra river on a coracle is an experience that provides the guests with a glimpse into the traditional country life in Karnataka. In the afternoon, proceed for a local sightseeing tour of Hospet. Overnight stay at Hospet.

Day 8: Hospet - Hassan

Morning after breakfast drive towards Hassan. On arrival check in at the hotel. Later after a short relaxation visit Hasanamba Temple is 800 years old and houses the main deity of Hassan. The temple is dedicated to Amba also known as Goddess Shakti. The goddess here is an anthill or (hutta in kannada) which denotes Hasanamba is actually goddess Parvathi. The Inner sanctum opens only once in a year for two weeks during Deepavali and closes three days after Balipadyami. When the temple is closed they keep before the goddess a lit lamp two bags of uncooked rice, water and flowers. Overnight stay at Hassan.

Day 9: Hassan - Belur – Halebid - Hassan

Today post breakfast start your tour with an excursion of Belur & Halebid. Belur in Hassan district 220 kms from Bangalore and 38 kms from Hassan is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. Visit the Chennakesava Temple, the major attraction, built by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana, to commemorate his victory over the Cholas. The facade of the temple is filled with intricate sculptures with no portion left blank. It is the only Hoysala Temple still in active worship. Later drive to Halebid in Hassan district is 27 kms away from Hassan and was the capital of the Hoysalas. It has one of the finest Hoysala temples. Visit the Hoysaleswara Temple, perched on a star-shaped base amidst lawns, is a sculptural extravaganza. Its walls are richly carved with an endless variety of Hindu deities, sages, stylized animals, birds and friezes depicting the life of the Hoysala Kings. Later return to Hassan for overnight stay.

Day 10: Hassan - Mysore

Today morning after breakfast drive to Mysore, en-route visit Shravanbelogola to visit the Jain temple - atop of the hill with five hundred steps cut out of rock lead to the summit and the colossal statue of Lord Gomateswara, which is 1705 meters high. It is nearly eighteen hundred years old. Further continue drive to Mysore. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Day 11: Mysore

This day morning after breakfast set out for a city sightseeing tour of Mysore. Mysore was the erstwhile capital of the Wodeyars. Visit the Chamundeswar temple.The legend takes its name from a famous demon called Mahishasura, a great warrior who ruled as a tyrant until he was killed by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Later visit Mysore Palace. Mysore as we see today is most famous for the imposing Royal Palace with a magnificent Durbar Hall, particularly splendid during the Dussehra Festival when the Maharaja's jewelry, studded gold throne (weighing 200 kgs) is on display. Chamundeshwari temple perched on a hilltop is 2000 years old, Nandi Bull halfway to the hill is a 4.8 meter monolith. 19 km north-west of Mysore is the KRS Dam and the ornamental Brindavan Gardens. The musical fountains and colorful lights transform this place into a fairlyland in the evenings. In the afternoon take an excursion to Srirangapatnam, Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tippu's Palace, Fort, Gumbaz and Tippu's Summer Palace. Overnight stay at Mysore.

Day 12: Mysore - Bengaluru

Morning post breakfast leave for Bangalore. On arrival check into the hotel. After fresh-n-up half day city sightseeing tour of Bangalore, visiting the Vidhana Soudha or the State Secretariat, Cubbon Park, The Government Museum of Bangalore (one of India's oldest museums) and the Visvesvaraya Technological and Industrial Museum, The Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, Tipu Sultan's Fort and Palace. Overnight stay at Bengaluru.

Day 13: Bengaluru - Departure

Today after breakfast is at your leisure. Later, depending on the time of your flight you are assisted to drop at airport before 3 hours of your departure. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. We hope you will come back again to explore the Complete Deccan Tour with us.

Religious Paradise on the Ganges(7N/8D)

Insight Holidays welcomes you at any port of entry, be it Capital city Delhi in North, Commercial capital Mumbai in West, Cultural City Chennai in South, Spiritual City Kolkata in South, City of Nawab Hyderabad. After clearing customs and immigrations our representative meets at the arrival Hall and assists with your transfer to your hotel. We recommend you to stay one more day to get an insight of diverse Indian Culture. Our experienced Guide helps you to explore the city until drop at the airport for your onward journey towards Varanasi, The Religious Paradise of India.

Day 1 : Arrive - Varanasi 

After breakfast transfer from Bodhgaya to Varanasi and check into hotel. Take a short break before heading to Sarnath, 10 km. At Sarnath, Buddha gave his first sermon to a small band of followers after attaining nirvana. Emperor Ashoka had monastaries and stupas built here which were destroyed by Muslim invaders in later years. Some remains were discovered by British archaeologists in 1835. Sarnath is one of the four main sites of the Budddhist religion, Evening Aarti at DashaswamedhGhat  .  Overnight stay at Varanasi . 

Day 2 : Varanasi - Kushinagar 

After breakfast, depart for Kushinagar, 250 km by road. r and check into hotel. Buddha breathed his last here, leaving a message for all mankind to find their salvation. Several monuments built by devotees from across the world have built monuments on this holy site along the Buddha Marg. These include: Vietnams Linh Son Buddhists temple, meditation centre and gardens, the Burmese MahasukhamdadachamThargyi Pagoda, the Mahaparinirvan Temple with a tranquil and reclining Buddha and the Matahkuar temple, the Japanese - Sri Lanka temple and the Wat Thai temple. The RamabharStupa, or the MukutbandhanStupa is the site of the cremation of Buddha.  overnight stay at Khusinagar . 

Day 3: Kushinagar - Kapilavastu – Lumbini

Post breakfast  in the morning, embark on a sightseeing tour of Kapilavastu India . Later, you will  be transferred to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Lumbini . 

Day 4 : Lumbini -  Patna

Post breakfast in the morning, set off to explore the Ashoka Pillar, a commemorative monument built by King Ashoka in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. Later, proceed to the Mayadevi Temple, an old Buddhist monastery. Later, proceed to Patna. On reaching Balrampur, proceed to the hotel for overnight stay. 

Day 5 : Patna  - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya

After breakfast, proceed to Nalanda,  University Ruins Archaeological Complex is set amidst expansive lawns which offset the spectacular layout and carvings of this ancient university. The monasteries and the viharas are separated by a central valley. Interesting structures to look out for include: steps leading up to perhaps a dais for professors and stupas with images of the Buddha carved in. According to the Chinese traveler XuanZang who also taught at the university during 685 and 762 AD, 10,000 monks and professors resided here at the time.  Rajgir - The ruins of the Kolhua complex enclose the 2300 year old Ashoka pillar. A Japanese Peace Pagoda has also been built here. After lunch, proceed. overnight stay at Bodhgaya . 

Day 6 : Bodh Gaya

Today morning after breakfast take a sightseeing tour of this holy seat of the Buddhist religion. Here is where Gautam Buddha achieved enlightenment while meditating under a bodhi tree. There is a serene temple here, as well as the offshoot of the tree that offered shade to Buddha. The original tree was destroyed by Emperor Ashokas queen, but a sapling of it was saved in time and planted in Sri Lanka by his daughter. A sapling of that tree was brought back to Bodh Gaya, which still stands to tell this tale. A number of Buddhist nations like Thailand, Japan and Burma have set up monasteries and meditation centres in Bodh Gaya. Some of these include: the IndosanNipponji temple, the Thai monastery, the Tibetan Karma Temple and Namgyal Monastery, and others by the Chinese, Burmese, Bhutanese, Vietnamese, Tamang, Daijokyo and Nepali Buddhist communities. During October and March, monks from Dharamsala descend to Bodh Gaya. The Dalai Lama pays a visit here too during December and January. The Mahabodhi temple is a World Heritage site, built adjacent to the site of enlightenment in the 6th century AD. The temple was attacked and plundered by Muslim invaders in the 11th century and re-built several times. Return to hotel for overnight stay at Bodhgaya.

Day 7 : Bodh Gaya - Dungeshwari Caves – Gaya

Morning after breakfast, proceed to Dungeshwari cave temples, 13 km. Here Buddha spent years of penance before attaining nirvana or enlightenment. After lunch, return to Gaya to visit the Brahmajuni Hill, believed to be the site of Buddhas fire sermon. There is a cave and a temple on the hill top. Return to hotel for Overnight stay at Bodhgaya.

Day 8 : Bodh Gaya- Departure

After breakfast, drop at Gaya/Varanasi airport before two hours of schedule departure towards onward destination. Please recheck your passport & print out of airline ticket at your hand baggage. Hope you got an insight into Religious Paradise on the Ganges and wish you to return back again to explore incredible India with us.