Adventure-packed 6-day itinerary for Odisha in August 2023

1. Day 1: Bhitarkanika National Park
   2 hours 30 minutes (100 miles) from Biju Patnaik International Airport

   Explore the dense mangrove forests in a boat ride in the morning. Visit the Crocodile Breeding Center, where you can spot estuarine crocodiles lazing around. After lunch, visit the Gupti Temple, one of the oldest temples in the region, and marvel at the intricate carvings. Spend the evening at Dangmal Island, where you can watch the sunset and spot migratory birds.

2. Day 2: Konark Sun Temple
   4 hours (120 miles) from Bhitarkanika National Park

   Get awed by the 13th-century Konark Sun Temple, UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its intricate stone carvings and architecture. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Chandrabhaga Beach, where you can try surfing, watch fishermen at work, and enjoy the sunset. Spend the evening trying local delicacies at the Konark local market.

3. Day 3: Chilika Lake
   2 hours (70 miles) from Konark Sun Temple

   Take a boat ride at the largest lagoon in Asia, Chilika Lake, and explore the bird sanctuary on Nalaban Island. After lunch, visit the Kalijai Temple, situated on an island in the lake, dedicated to the goddess Kali. Spend the evening at Satapada, where you can take a dolphin boat ride and enjoy the sunset.

4. Day 4: Simlipal National Park
   7 hours 30 minutes (240 miles) from Chilika Lake

   Go on a jungle safari tour in the morning and spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and more. Visit the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls in the afternoon, where you can enjoy a picnic. Spend the evening at the Gurguria Nature Camp, where you can enjoy a bonfire and stargaze.

5. Day 5: Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
   3 hours (110 miles) from Simlipal National Park

   Take a jungle trekking tour in the morning and spot bison, sambars, and leopards. After lunch, visit the Pradhanpat waterfall, which is surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening birdwatching at the Hirakud Dam, where you can spot migratory birds.

6. Day 6: Daringibadi Hill Station
   4 hours 30 minutes (180 miles) from Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

   Visit the coffee and spice plantations in the morning. After lunch, visit the Doluri River, where you can go for a swim. Spend the evening at the Putudi Waterfall, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset and try local street food.

Recommendations

If you are interested in history, consider visiting Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, where you can explore ancient Jain rock-cut shelters. For more adventure, try river rafting at the Mahanadi River. If you have time, you can also visit the nearby Gopalpur Beach and Puri Beach.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Bhitarkanika National Park (1 day, £20)
• Konark Sun Temple (1 day, £10)
• Chilika Lake (1 day, £15)
• Simlipal National Park (1 day, £25)
• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary (1 day, £15)
• Daringibadi Hill Station (1 day, £10)
• Total Estimated Costs: £95

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