Luxury Safaris in Eastern India
Orissa, on the east coast, south of Kolkata, is the most rural of all Indian states. 80% of its population live in villages and the majority are agriculturalists.
Orissa is famed for its exquisite temples and monuments at centres such as Bhubaneshwar, Konark and Puri, but what is special in this region is spending time with the indigenous tribes in their villages, and seeing their distinct trades. There is a village of farmers, another of weavers, another of potters, and yet another of snake charmers.
Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal, and had, until recently, a reputation for squalor, and poverty, but in this vibrant city (of 13 million inhabitants) an important part of India's historical heritage can be followed through buildings such as the Marble Palace, the Botanical and Eden Gardens, the Victoria Memorial, and in the museum. Kolkata was at one time capital of the British Raj, and sits along the banks of the wide Hooghly before that river joins the Ganges as it broadens to form the largest delta in the world that includes the Sunderbans, with its huge mangrove forests and Tiger Reserve.
North of Kolkata are the hot and humid plains of rice and jute fields, and dotted among them are towns such as Bishnupur with its beautiful terracotta temples. Far to the north are the Himalayan foothills (see under Northern India), perfect for trekking.
"The trip was just wonderful & everything you had organised was as you said it would be." - Mr & Mrs Ross
We look forward to tailoring your holiday to Eastern India. Please call Tim Best Travel on +44 (0) 207 591 0300, or if calling from the US, Toll Free on 1-866-205-8369 to speak to one of our luxury travel specialists.
