India · Safari

Bhubaneshwar, Bhitarkanika & Similipal Tiger Reserve Tour

5 Days Round trip from Pickup service provided in Bhubaneswar. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Bhubaneswar’s historic temples and ancient caves
  • 02 Visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda and Ashokan rock edicts
  • 03 Discover the Buddhist sites of Ratnagiri, Udaigiri, and Lalitgiri
  • 04 Enjoy a boat safari through Bhitarkanika’s mangrove creeks
  • 05 Spot birds from the Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary watchtower
  • 06 Visit the crocodile museum at Dangamal
  • 07 Take a jeep safari in Similipal Tiger Reserve
  • 08 Travel with private transport, guided sightseeing, and included accommodation

Discover the cultural and natural highlights of Odisha on this 5-day journey from Bhubaneswar to Bhitarkanika National Park and Similipal Tiger Reserve. Begin with Bhubaneswar’s historic temples, ancient rock-cut caves, and the peaceful Dhauli Peace Pagoda before continuing to important Buddhist sites at Ratnagiri, Udaigiri, and Lalitgiri.

The adventure then shifts into the wild, with a boat safari through Bhitarkanika’s mangrove forests and time for bird watching and crocodile conservation insights at Dangamal. In Similipal Tiger Reserve, enjoy a jeep safari through forested landscapes in search of wildlife including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and deer.

With private transport, guided sightseeing, accommodation, and key park activities included, this tour combines heritage, spirituality, and wildlife into one memorable Odisha experience.

The adventure then shifts into the wild, with a boat safari through Bhitarkanika’s mangrove forests and time for bird watching and crocodile conservation insights at Dangamal.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
City Bhubaneswar
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrive BhubaneswarUpon your arrival at Bhubaneswar airport, our representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel.Begin your exploration with visits to the Rajarani, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar, Brahmeswar, and Lingaraj temples (note: non-Hindus can view these temples from the outside only due to access restrictions).Delve into the ancient depths of the Khandagiri and Udaigiri rock-cut caves, which date back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves, commissioned by King Kharavela of the Kalinga dynasty, served as residential blocks for Jain monks. Explore the intricately carved Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave) with its historical inscriptions detailing King Kharavela's reign and achievements. Marvel at the beautifully sculpted figures of various Jain tirthankaras, animals, and everyday life scenes adorning the cave walls.Find tranquility at the Dhauli Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa, built on the banks of the Daya River. This serene site marks the place where Emperor Ashoka, after witnessing the carnage of the Kalinga War, embraced Buddhism and non-violence. The white stupa, built by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha in the 1970s, features panels depicting the life of Buddha and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The adjacent rock edicts of Ashoka, inscribed with his messages of peace and dharma, add historical significance to your visit.Overnight at hotel.

2
Day 02

Bhubaneswar - Bhitarakanika National Park (200kms/ 4hrs approx)After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Bhitarakanika National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.En route, explore the ancient Buddhist heritage of the region with visits to Ratnagiri, Udaigiri, and Lalitgiri Buddhist Sites, marveling at the intricately carved stupas and monastic ruins.Arrive at Bhitarakanika and settle into your Jungle Cottage or Tent, nestled amidst the pristine wilderness of the park, offering a perfect blend of comfort and adventure.As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk around the campsite, soaking in the sights and sounds of the jungle, before indulging in a delicious dinner, featuring local delicacies prepared with fresh ingredients. After dinner, gather around a crackling bonfire under the starlit sky, sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers, before retiring for a restful night's sleep, lulled by the symphony of nature.overnight at Jungle Cottage/ Tent.

3
Day 03

Bhitarakanika National Park - Similipal Tiger Reserve (200kms/ 4hrs approx)Start your day with a thrilling boat safari through Bhitarakanika's mangrove forests, gliding along winding creeks and waterways, while keeping a lookout for the elusive estuarine crocodiles and a myriad of bird species. Ascend the watchtower at Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Explore the Crocodile museum at Dangamal, learning about the conservation efforts to protect the endangered species and the ecological importance of mangrove ecosystems.Journey to Similipal Tiger Reserve, a pristine wilderness teeming with biodiversity, and check into your Jungle Cottage or Tent, immersing yourself in the heart of nature's embrace. As night falls, dine under the canopy of stars, relishing a delicious dinner prepared by the camp chef, before retiring for the night, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.overnight at Jungle Cottage/ Tent.

4
Day 04

Similipal Tiger ReserveWake up to the melodious calls of birds and the gentle rustle of leaves, as you prepare for an exhilarating jeep safari through Similipal Tiger Reserve. Traverse rugged terrain and dense forests, accompanied by experienced naturalist guides, as you search for elusive big cats like tigers and leopards, along with other iconic wildlife species such as elephants, gaurs, and deer. Marvel at the unique red silk cotton trees, adorned with vibrant blooms, adding a splash of color to the lush green landscape. Pause for a scenic picnic lunch amidst nature's bounty, savoring the tranquility of the surroundings and the flavors of a traditional Odia meal. Continue your wildlife adventure, exploring the hidden corners of the reserve, before returning to your Jungle Cottage or Tent for a well-deserved rest, recounting the day's sightings and experiences around a campfire.overnight at Jungle Cottage/ Tent.

5
Day 05

Similipal Tiger Reserve - Bhubaneshwar (200kms/ 4hrs approx)Bid farewell to the untamed wilderness of Similipal Tiger Reserve as you embark on the journey back to Bhubaneswar, reflecting on the memories and experiences of your wildlife safari.Arrive in the city and head directly to the airport, where you'll bid adieu to the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Odisha, carrying cherished memories of your journey into the heart of nature's realm.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Bhubaneswar. 1 city · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Dinner
  • Breakfast
  • Assistance on arrival at the airport.
  • 4 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
  • Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
  • Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • 1 Time Boat Safari in Bhitarakanika National Park with a naturalist.
  • 1 Time jeep safari in Similipal Tiger Reserve with a forest department naturalist.
  • NOTE: Jeep safaris are subject to availability and once booked, they cannot be amended or canceled.
  • Bottled drinking water in the car.
  • Government taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Any flight ticket.
  • Camera charges at monuments if any.
  • Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
  • Gratuities and optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Know before you go

  • INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Hotels used or similar

    Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
    3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
    4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
    5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel

    Bhitarkanika x 1 nights
    3*/4*/5* - Nature Camp Bhitarkanika Retreat/ Estuarine Village Resort Bhitarkanika

    Similipal x 2 nights
    3*/4*/5* - Aranya Nivas Resort/ Panthnivas Panchalingeswar
  • We provide pickup from all hotels in Bhubaneswar

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Bhubaneswar.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Bhubaneswar.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Bhubaneswar..

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