East Indian Traveller
A boat safari through one of the largest mangroove system in the country with giant Salt Water Crocodiles lining the shore is what summarizes a typical tour of Bhitarkanika. A sanctuary for the crocodiles, this National park, is both beautiful and wild, making the whole trip an unforgettable experience.
Set amidst a serene natural surrounding, the Taptapani Panthanivas is a state run guesthouse, that was supposed to serve as a night halt during my southern Odisha explorations.
It however turned out to be a destination in itself, surrounded by hills and forrest, devoid of any human settlements nearby. Easy on the budget, providing for ample privacy, this humble property is in fact a resort, masquerading as a guesthouse.
Jirang also known as Chandragiri, is a small village in Gajapati district of Odisha, which boasts of a small but significant Tibetan population. The village had maintained a very low profile untill it became home to the largest buddhist monastery of Eastern India in 2010.
Since then, slowly and steadily its popularity has grown within the tourist circles of India and abroad. Visitors from all parts of the world now flock the small village to experience the unadultrated village life, get bowled over by the mighty Eastern ghats and get wowed by the beautiful Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery.
A 12th century temple perched atop a 2239 ft hill, provides for a perfect weekend gateaway, taking one close to both god and nature. The drive through the winding serpentine roads, hike through a forest and enchanting wood work makes the destination a crowning glory for Dhenkanal, Odisha
An island inside a mighty river holds a 12th century temple, that has made a mark for itself in both the pilgrimage and tourist landscape of the state of Odisha. Crossing the river on either boat or a pedestrian bridge, makes you realize the river is not just a water body but a living entity in itself.
East Indian Traveller