The Great Eastern Voyage is an expansive 30-day expedition that knits together India’s eastern tapestry, cultural capitals, ancient temples, biodiverse sanctuaries, high-altitude monasteries, and the dramatic landscapes of the Northeast. Beginning in Kolkata, the itinerary immerses travelers in Bengali art, colonial architecture, spiritual sites, and the city’s famed markets and creative quarters.
From there, the route transitions into Odisha’s temple heartland at Bhubaneswar, where centuries-old stone architecture at Lingaraj, Mukteswar, and Rajarani reveals India’s deep ritual and sculptural traditions. The journey through Ratnagiri and Udayagiri adds archaeological context, before the wild mangroves of Bhitarkanika deliver a contrasting, primal experience with boat cruises and crocodile sightings.
Coastal Puri and Konark offer UNESCO-grade artistry and a taste of seaside life, while Chilika Lake introduces rare Irrawaddy dolphins and abundant birdlife. After returning briefly to Bhubaneswar, the voyage ascends to the Himalayan foothills: Bagdogra and Gangtok open the doorway to Sikkim’s monasteries, Tibetology, and serene mountain monasteries.
Pelling, with views of the Kanchenjunga and sacred lakes like Khecheopalri, showcases Himalayan spirituality and sweeping panoramas. Darjeeling’s tea gardens, early-morning sunrises at Tiger Hill, and mountaineering heritage bring alpine charm.
The itinerary then moves into the misty, rain-kissed landscapes of Meghalaya and Cherrapunjee, caves, dramatic waterfalls, living root bridges, and panoramic canyons. Shillong offers a cultural interlude with museums and leafy parks.
Crossing into Assam, Kaziranga provides unforgettable wildlife safaris and encounters with one-horned rhinoceros, while Majuli, the world’s largest river island, reveals vibrant Neo-Vaishnavite culture. The voyage concludes with Guwahati’s spiritual sites and a Brahmaputra river cruise, before a final return to Kolkata, allowing time for final explorations and graceful farewells.
This itinerary balances history, spirituality, wildlife, and panoramic mountain and riverine scenery for an immersive eastern India odyssey.
This tour covers Kolkata’s colonial and spiritual landmarks, Bhubaneswar’s temples, Bhitarkanika’s mangroves, Konark’s Sun Temple, Chilika’s dolphins, Sikkim’s monasteries, and Pelling’s Kanchenjunga views, Darjeeling’s Tiger Hill, Meghalaya’s waterfalls, Kaziranga’s rhino safaris, Majuli’s river culture, and Guwahati’s Brahmaputra cruise.
Upon your arrival at Kolkata airport, a local representative will greet you warmly and transfer you to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to settle in and relax after your journey.
Take this opportunity to begin soaking in the unique atmosphere of the City of Joy. You can spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring the immediate surroundings of your hotel or enjoying a traditional Bengali meal.
Begin your deep dive into Kolkata's rich heritage with a visit to the bustling Flower Market, a vibrant sensory experience on the banks of the Ganges near the iconic Howrah Bridge.
You'll then take a drive past the grand colonial architecture of Dalhousie Square before visiting Mother Teresa’s House, a place of peace and reverence.
The day continues with stops at the magnificent Victoria Memorial and the majestic Saint Paul’s Cathedral.
In the afternoon, you'll head to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and the serene Belur Math, both significant spiritual landmarks connected to Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda.
Today you'll continue your exploration of the city, starting with the sacred Kalighat Kali Temple. Next, you'll visit the stunning Parasnath Jain Temple, often called the "jewel box of Kolkata" for its intricate design.
You'll then see the opulent Marble Palace and the historic Tagore Museum at Jorasanko. Experience the vibrant creative spirit of the city at the Potter's colony of Kumartuli and the famous College Street Book Market, a haven for book lovers.
Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible biodiversity of the Bhitarkanika mangrove sanctuary. You'll take a boat cruise through the creeks to spot a variety of birds and reptiles, including the famous estuarine crocodiles and various kingfisher species.
Later, you'll trek through the dense mangrove forest for a closer look at the local wildlife and flora in their natural habitat, making for an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Following breakfast, you will travel to Cuttack, a city known for its historic and spiritual sites. Along the way, you'll visit the Baladeva Jiu Temple in Kendrapara.
After checking into your hotel in Cuttack, you will witness the serene and powerful Aaarthi Prayer Ceremony at the Chandi Temple. This evening provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a deeply spiritual and traditional ritual.
This morning, you will travel to Konark to see the magnificent Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel carved in stone. You'll then enjoy a walk through a local fishermen's village to get a feel for the coastal way of life.
The afternoon takes you back to Puri via the scenic marine drive, where you can explore the bustling local market and visit the sacred Jagannath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines.
You'll take an early morning flight from Bhubaneswar to Bagdogra via Kolkata, with a layover. Upon arrival at Bagdogra airport, a representative will meet you and begin the scenic drive to Gangtok.
The journey takes you through winding roads with stunning views of the Himalayan foothills. After arriving in Gangtok, you'll check into your hotel and have the evening to rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Begin your day in Gangtok with a visit to some of its most iconic sites. You'll explore the serene Rumtek Monastery, a center of Buddhist learning, and the Droul Chorthen stupa.
Continue to the Research Institute of Tibetology and the Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. The day concludes with a visit to the beautiful Flower Show and the peaceful Enchey Monastery.
After breakfast, you will travel to Pelling, a town known for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range. En route, you'll stop at the Buddha Park at Ravangla, a serene location featuring a monumental 130-foot statue of the Buddha.
This site is a significant stop on the 'Himalayan Buddhist Circuit'. Upon arrival in Pelling, you'll check into your hotel and can spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Today you will explore the spiritual and natural beauty of Pelling. The morning starts with visits to Sanga Choeling Monastery and the impressive Chenrezig Statue, followed by the Skywalk. You'll then visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, where it is believed that wishes come true.
In the afternoon, explore the Pemayangtse Monastery, which houses a remarkable wooden sculpture of the Mahaguru's Heavenly palace, and the ruins of Rabdentse, the historical second capital of Sikkim.
Following breakfast, you'll travel to the picturesque hill station of Darjeeling. The drive offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
After arriving and checking into your hotel, you have the rest of the day to explore the town at your own pace. Wander through the streets, visit local cafes, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this famous destination.
Your day begins before dawn with a memorable trip to Tiger Hill, where you will witness a breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, the third-highest in the world. On your way back, you'll stop at the Ghoom Monastery.
After breakfast, the day continues with visits to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. You'll also see the Tibetan Refugee self-help Center and the Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda.
After breakfast, you will travel to Siliguri. This is a day for rest and travel. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free. You can use this time to relax and prepare for the next stage of your journey to Northeast India.
Today you will take an afternoon flight from Bagdogra to Guwahati. Upon arrival at the airport, a local representative will meet you and you will begin the scenic drive to Cherrapunjee.
The journey to Cherrapunjee takes you through lush green hills and provides a glimpse of the region's stunning landscapes. You'll check into your hotel for the night and get ready for a full day of exploration tomorrow.
After breakfast, you'll explore the incredible natural attractions of Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on earth. You will visit the mystical Garden of Caves, followed by the Arwah Cave or Mawsmai Cave, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations.
The day's tour also includes visits to the dramatic Seven Sisters Falls and Nohkalikai Falls, offering spectacular views of the cascading water.
Prepare for a long and adventurous day. After an early breakfast, you'll drive to Mawlynnong, a village renowned as the cleanest in Asia. Here, you can experience the Skywalk for a view of the famous Single Living Root Bridge.
After lunch, you'll travel to Dawki, the gateway to Bangladesh, where you can see the stunningly clear waters of the Umngot River. The day ends with a drive to Shillong, where you will check into your hotel for the night.
Today is dedicated to exploring some of Meghalaya's most breathtaking natural landscapes. After breakfast, you will travel to Laitlum Canyons, where you can witness a sprawling panoramic view of the hills.
Afterward, you will proceed to the beautiful Krangsuri Waterfall near Jowai. After enjoying the serene beauty of the falls, you will drive back to Shillong for your overnight stay.
Your day begins with an excursion to the sacred forest of Mawphlang, a site of deep cultural significance to the Khasi community. Afterward, you'll return to Shillong for some local sightseeing.
You'll visit the Don Bosco Museum, which provides insight into the culture of the Northeast, and the serene Ward's Lake and Lady Hydari Park. The day concludes with a visit to the beautiful Cathedral of Mary.
Today, you will take a scenic drive from Shillong to Kaziranga National Park. This journey takes you through changing landscapes, from the hills of Meghalaya to the plains of Assam.
Upon arrival at Kaziranga, you'll check into your hotel. The evening is yours to relax and prepare for your wildlife adventures in one of the most important conservation areas in the world.
An early start awaits you as you embark on an exciting elephant ride through the park, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife and an up-close view of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Later in the day, after lunch, you will go on a jeep safari to explore more of the park's diverse ecosystem, with opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, and other animals. Your day will also include a visit to the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
After an early breakfast, you will take a drive to Nimati Ghat, where you will board a public ferry to Majuli, the world's largest river island. The excursion to Majuli offers a look into the unique culture of the Mising tribe and the sattras, which are centers of the Neo-Vaishnavite tradition.
You'll visit some of these spiritual centers before taking the return ferry to Nimati Ghat and driving back to your hotel in Kaziranga.
After breakfast, you will travel to Guwahati. The drive will take you through the scenic plains of Assam. Upon arrival in the evening, you will check into your hotel. In the evening, you will enjoy a tranquil river cruise on the Brahmaputra River, a perfect way to relax and take in the city's sights from the water.
Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and cultural landmarks of Guwahati. You will begin with a visit to the famous Kamakhya Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
Your tour will continue with visits to the Umananda Shiv Temple and the ancient Navegraha Temple. In the afternoon, you'll explore the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, a cultural complex, and the Pragjyotika Assam Emporium for a taste of local arts and crafts.
You will be transferred to Guwahati airport this morning for a flight to Kolkata. A local representative will greet you upon your arrival and escort you to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore parts of the city you may have missed on your earlier visit. This evening provides a good opportunity to prepare for your final days in the city.
Your last full day in Kolkata is a chance to see some of its final highlights. You will visit the historic Park Street Cemetery and the vast Indian Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts.
If time permits, you can also visit the Netaji Museum before proceeding to the beautiful Iskcon Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple.
Today is your final day. In the morning, you can revisit some of your favourite spots in Kolkata or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
In the evening, you will be transferred to the Kolkata airport for your flight back home.
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