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discoveryblogger · 2 years

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Best Beaches of India

Summary: Think of holidays, fun and frolic and beaches come to mind. Blessed as it is with a long coastline and a kaleidoscopic ethnic mix, India offers a variety of incomparable experiences if you were to travel the coastline from east to south to west.

India has a long coastline stretching all the way from the Gulf of Kutch down South to Kanyakumari and then upwards to the East and the Bay of Bengal. The coastline is studded with hundreds of beaches, some of them as yet undiscovered and some so popular as to be overcrowded with a sea of humanity. You can pick beaches where you can have fun and frolic, as for example, the beaches of Goa. You can just as well pick beaches where you have absolute peace and quiet and can commune with nature, recharging your batteries. It would be difficult to pick beaches and rank them since it all boils down to your preferences.

Varkala Beach in Kerala, for instance is not the run of the mill beach with a sandy expanse. Just a short stretch and the sea shore gives way to steeply rising slopes of colorful mountains fringed in green. If traditional beaches appeal to you, Kovalam is always there- an International resort of repute where you can find coconut sellers and people ready to give you an oil massage. Kerala’s beaches, you will find, are quite different from those in Goa. Goa’s beaches, over the years, have acquired a reputation for being fun places, beaches where you let your hair down and frolic. Calangute, Colva, Anjuna, Miramar and Vagator beaches teem with life but Agonda is magnificently beautiful. Apart from flea markets, dining al fresco and lazing in the sun, you can indulge your fancy for water sports here. You can go scuba diving, surfing, sailing or cruising. Goa’s beaches certainly boast of all facilities to make your stay pleasurable and eventful. Radhanagar Beach in the Andamans is another globally acclaimed beach that will capture your heart.

There are hundreds of beaches dotting the coastline of India but if there is one beach you must visit, it is Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. It is not the best in terms of facilities or fun quotient but there is something unique about this place. It is the southernmost tip of the peninsula of India. The sea is rough and coast is dotted with rocky stretches with multi-coloured sand being the redeeming factor. More to the point, this is the confluence of the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, a vantage point to view a breathtaking sunset or an astonishing moonrise. Simply unforgettable!

Talk of beaches of Andhra Pradesh and you will draw blank stares. This is one state where you should head if you wish to find pristine lovely beaches such as the Mypadu, a long coastal area of untrammeled greenery with clear waters and golden sands, only 25 Km from Nellore. Rama Krishna Beach, Rushi Konda near Visakhapatnam and Suryalanka near Guntur are worth exploring. The point is that costs at well-known beaches are sky high whereas these lesser known getaways give you more bang for your Rupee.

If you are disinclined to spend time in traveling, then Mumbai has Versova, Bandra, Juhu and Alibaug where you can lose yourself to Nature and then take a short walk back to a teeming modern metropolis.

India has hundreds of beaches, some well-known like Gopalpur in Orissa and New Digha Beach in Bengal. Head for the most well-known or take time to explore the quiet ones. You may just want to settle down at one of these lovely places.

#best beaches of india #best beaches in goa #5 best beaches in india

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niladriholiday-blog · 4 years

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Gopalpur Tour Packages| Gopalpur Travel Packages

Niladri Holidays always look after its customers’ service. Niladri Holidays always wanted to make customers holiday memorable and enjoyable. We always take pride in our service. We consider ourselves as a market leader for travel to the Puri and the Odisha.

Gopalpur Tour Packages - 4Night/5Days

Niladri Holidays vehicle will pick you from hotels/ Airport/ Railway station or whatever the place you will choose during booking, then leave for Konark. Our vehicle is very comfortable and the drivers are very friendly. They are very acquainted with the history of Odisha and its culture. They can also help you during your journey to a new place.

Lingaraj Temple - Lingraj Temple is the main and important temple in Bhubaneswar. Lingaraj temple is built by Jajati Keshari in 11th century CE. This temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar.

Mukteswar Temple - after seeing the beauty of Lingaraj temple our vehicle will move towards the Mukteshvara Temple. This temple is also a hindu temple built during the 10th century. This temple is also dedicated to lord Shiva. Mukteswar Temple is from the Somvamshi period.

Nandankanan Zoo - children and wildlife lovers must enjoy this place. It was established in 1960. It also has a botanical garden. The total area of Nandankanan is 437 ha. There are nearly 3485 animals and 157 species available in it.

Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves - here you will see the archaeological work. Tourists will feel its historical and religious importance of this place. Khandagiri have 15 caves and Udayagiri has 18 caves.

In the 2nd days our vehicle will pick up guests from the hotel and leave for Konark sightseeing.

Konark temple is also known as sun temple which was built in the 13th century CE. This temple is very near from the city Puri. This temple is dedicated to God Surya. Konark temple is also known as the “Black Pagoda”. It is because this temple looks like a black tower. Niladri Holidays is will give you the chance to explore the beauty of this place. The works around the temple’s wall is very precious, it is because history says, there are 12,000 workers involved to build this beautiful temple. Tourists will enjoy the silent sea beach here.

Taking memory of Konark temple, our vehicle will have headed towards Chilika lake. Here in our vehicle will take rest. It means, its breakfast time. There are awesome Dhabas in the roadside. You have many choices to have your breakfast. There are Bengoli Dhabas, Odisha Bhadas and Gujurati Dhabas and many more. After having breakfast, we move moved towards satapada.

Satapada - Satapada means group of seven villages. In odia language sata means “seven” and pada means “villages”. It is near to Puri district. Satapada is the home for dolphins. Many migratory birds move to Nalabana bird sanctuary. It will take four hours by boat from satapada to Nalabana.

Baliharchandi Temple - this temple is dedicated to Maa Durga. It has a very beautiful and calm atmosphere. This temple is very famous in Odisha. There a beach near to this temple which is another attraction for tourists. Buses, cabs, auto rickshaws are the best way to travel from puri.

Lord Alarnath Temple - This temple is also located in Puri. This temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu. this temple is about 23km from puri. When lord Jagannath is in anasara Ghara during rath yatra, that time people leave for Lord Alarnath. It is believed people during rath yatra Lord Jagannath manifests as Alarnath dev.

After gaining experience of Konark site, it is time for taking a rest. Because there are a lot of things to see in the next morning. In the next morning or in the 4th day, our vehicle will leave for visiting Puri. After having breakfast, we moved towards Puri for exploring the beauty.

Puri is called the holy city of Odisha. This city is famous for Lord Jagannath who is famous world wide. Millions of tourists visit every year to this place to see the Lord. Lord Jagannath with his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Subhadra reside here. Chariot pulling festival or in Oriya “Ratha Yatra” is a famous festival. Tourists from all over the country came to this place at this festive time.

Lokanath Temple - this temple is very close to Jagannath Temple. This temple is also in Puri town. Lokanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to history, this temple was established by Lord Rama. There is a unique feature in this temple. The Shivalinga is always under water. The water is Goddess Ganga. This temple is very famous among the five famous Shiva temple of Puri.

Gundicha Temple - This is a Hindu temple located in Puri town. It has a significant during Rath Yatra. During Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and devi Subhadra leave Sri mandir or Bada Deula and going to Gundicha temple for 7 days. Gundicha considered as the aunt of these 3 siblings. Most of the time this temple remain vacant. It lies only about 3 Km from Sri Mandir. You have to give an entry fees before visiting this temple.

Chakarathrtha Temple - This temple is also a very important pilgrim centre of Puri town. It is only 3km away from Lord Jagannath temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Nrusingha. This temple have other names. Like Chakra Nrushingj temple and Narasimha Temple.

Sunaragouranga Temple - This temple is very close to jagannath temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Gauranga. this temple is very small at the same time it attracts tourists. It doesn’t take much time to explore it.

Narendra Sarovara- This holy water tank is considered as the most sacred water tanks in Odisha. Between these tanks, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. This lake covers 3.24 hectares. During the time of Ratha Yatra, a festival called Chandan Yatra performed in narendra Sarovara. Where Lord Madan mohan takes a ride on a decorated boat. It is also called “Chapa”.

After exploring these beautiful temples, it’s the time to visit the Sri Mandir. Where the three deities are reside. Locals believe different things regarding this temple. There is a Kalpa Batta in the premises of Sri Mandir. Where you can worship a tree to fulfil your dreams.

At the end of the day, our vehicle drops you at Bhubaneswar station or Airport.

Next day on day 5, Our vehicle will pick up guests from hotel and leave for Gopalpur.

Gopalpur Beach - Gopalpur is a town in the Bay of Bengal coast in Ganjam district. Now it is work as a commercial port. It is 15km away from Berhampur. Gopalpur Beach is famous for its beauty. Thousands of tourists visit this beach. Every year in the month of December Government of Odisha and Ganjam district hotel Association have been jointly organizing the beach festival to promote tourism and culture. There are many hotels at Gopalpur. There are many places in Gopalpur. You must visit those places.Those places are like rambha Lake, Gopalpur Lighthouse, Mayfair Palm Beach resort etc. There is a small market for shopping.

Chilika Lake Tour - This lake is the second largest brackish water lagoon in the world. This is the place of migratory birds. It is the home for different kinds of species, plants and animals.

Similipal National Park- This Park is a national and tiger reserve park. It is situated in the Mayurbhanj district. Similipal Park is the 7th largest national park in India. It has some beautiful water lakes, meandering rivers. Similipal National Park has 99 royal Bengal tigers and 432 wild elephants. Roaring of tigers, fleeing deer and trumpeting tuskers are the best part of Similipal Park. This park has 1076 species of mammals, 231 species and 29 types of reptiles.

After enjoying the beauty of Similipal National Park our cab return to Bhubaneswar. Our vehicle drops you at the railway station or Airport.

For more details about Gopalpur Tour Packages just move on www.niladriholidays.com

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swostigroupofhotels · 4 years

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The Unexplored Tourist Treasures Of Odisha Brought You By Swosti Group.

ODISHA – India’s Best Kept Secret. Explore the most exciting tourist destinations in Odisha. From East to West and North to South every district and city has its own treasure where one can find oneself feeling overwhelmed. Nature sightseeing, wildlife & dense forests, cloud touched hills, sanctuary and reserves, lakes & beaches, dance forms & festivals, adventure & sports, historical monuments & museums, and Art & crafts, etc.

Swosti Group has two incredibly best hotels in Bhubaneswar and two resorts in Chilika and Gopalpur. Swosti Grand & Swosti Premium, the premier business class hotels near Bhubaneswar Railway Station & Biju Patnaik International Airport are the epitome of comfort and luxury. The properties radiate a perfect unification of enduring charm with modern amenities. No matter whether you are a business traveler or a tourist, we leave no stone unturned to please and pamper your senses with a lavish stay tucked in luxury making your stay a memorable one.

For more details, please contact:

Call: 09337476478 / 09338015588

Email Us:- [email protected]

Website: https://www.swostihotels.com/

Swosti Travels: https://www.swostitravels.com/

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odisha-vacations · 4 years

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Travel to Odisha : Excellent Road Trips By Odisha Vacation For You

This time if you are planning for travel to Odisha then come with Odisha Vacation to start a different kind of exploration. Visiting Odisha through roads will add a different charm within your experience. So let Odisha Vacation gives you an amazing adventure of Odisha through roads. Here are the top ten road trip places to visit in Odisha call out to the tourists and travelers who want to go beyond the popular attractions. Here are a few to add to your bucket list in and around Bhubaneswar:

Kandhamal

245 km from the capital city of Odisha, Kandhamal is one of the preferred destinations which is beautifully adorned with natural beauties inhabited tribes. It is famous for coffee plantations and handmade articles of cane, terracotta, bamboo, and Dokra that give you a reason to explore this location while on tour. The Waterfalls of Pataudi, Ludu, Katramal, and Paladadarah invite significant visitors to Bhubaneshwar from all over India. For adventure lovers, the trekking and boating of Phulbani are just excellent that will make your road trips from Bhubaneswar fantastic.

Chilka

Just 61.8 km away from Bhubaneswar, Chilka is one of the best places to be included within your travel to Odishalist. mainly known for being a home of the largest coastal lagoon, with the Chilka lake being the second-largest lagoon in the world. Chilka lake is a fantastic tour if you are planning to organize road trips from Bhubaneswar. It provides so many things to do, such as boating, fishing and bird watching, and wildlife spotting. It is the home of different kinds of birds, reptiles, and aquatic animals. You can also see the migratory birds during the best season between October to March.

Keonjhar

200 km away from Bhubaneswar, Keonjhar is magnificently located on the northern outskirts of Odisha, it is one of the beautiful destinations which is the largest district of the state. Keonjhar is rich in flora and fauna, which attracts thousands of visitors from all across India. It is the hub of natural resources, dense forest with rich manganese is mainly found in the city. You can see the beautiful waterfalls of Khandadhar Waterfalls, Sanaghagara Waterfalls, and BadaGhagara Waterfalls.

Gopalpur

A coastal town beautifully situated on the boundaries of this state, Gopalpur is considered as the major tourist places to be included in travel to Odisha list and it is 174 km away from the smart city Bhubaneswar. It is well close to the state of Andra Pradesh that makes a perfect commercial hub of Odisha in terms of daily trading with the other countries. Gopalpur offers various sights for tourists such as Maa Tara Tarini Hill, Bala Kumari Temple, Sri Sri Sri Siddhi Vinayaka Pitha, and more. It is also home to some beautiful beaches like Sonepur Beach, Aryapalli Beach, and Gopalpur Beach.

Berhampur

Berhampur, also known as Brahmapur, is one of the renowned, oldest, and largest cities of Odisha and just 172 km away fromt the temple city of Bhubaneswar. The Berhampur Patta is also known as intricate silk sarees which represent the uniqueness and reminiscent in many ways, and that is the biggest thing that makes this city. Berhampur is known as the ‘City of Silk’. It is the perfect place to buy handloom products and jewelry. The town has some magnificent temples, an oasis of the ocean, the Aryapalli beach, and much more to count itself in the list of best places to visit in Odisha.

Cuttack

With the historic vibes exuding from every nook, Cuttack is one of the best destinations for road trips a few 26 kilometers away Bhubaneswar. Cuttack was once the capital of Odisha and now is the cultural and commercial hub. It is one of the oldest and the largest cities to visit in this state. This town is sitting on the fertile land where the two pristine rivers named Mahanadi and Kathjori meet. There are hundreds of tourists that visit this town all year round to witness the vibrancy that the culture here has to offer. The monuments that cover the floors of this city are what attract many tourists.

Puri

It is one of the best places to travel in Odisha that is famous and just 82.3 km away from Bhubaneswar. Puri got its fame because of the grand chariot festival that takes place here annually. Sitting beautifully on the Bay of Bengal, Puri is home to Jagannath Temple that is exactly what makes this town popular. For this reason, there are hundreds of pilgrims visiting the town all year long. This temple is India’s only shrine where one can witness Lord Krishna and Goddesses Radha, Durga, Sari, Shakti, Parvati, and Lakshmi all residing together.

Chandipur

For those seeking a beach escape near Bhubaneswar, you can head to 185.6 km away Chandipur in Odisha. This beach resort is located in the Baleswar district of Odisha and is known for being home to the Missile Testing LaunchPad. The missiles like Adni, Shaurya, Akash, and Prithvi can be seen here. If you are keen on visiting the range, you can do so after taking permission from the authorities.

Jajpur Buddhist Destinations

All these three destinations are count as Dimond Tringular places to travel in Odisha situated at the pilgrimage town Jajpur in Odisha and just 31.8 km away from Bhubaneswar. These towns are the finest example of numerous architectural pieces that cover the floors of this country. Offering the perfect blend of natural and man-made marvels, this town has historical importance latched to itself. There are hundreds of monasteries, stupas, and the ruins of Buddhist architecture that one can witness in these towns.

Konark

Distance: 85 km from Bhubaneswar

If you wish to go for a short and historic road trip from Bhubaneswar, turn your car wheels towards Konark at 85 km away. Konark is a beautiful town that blankets several stunning monuments. These monuments form a major part of the landscape here and offer scenic beauty to individuals. Sitting against the Bay of Bengal, this small town has several structures crafted in stone to boast about. These structures are not only famous for their appeal but also host religious significance that attracts pilgrims to this among the best places to travel in Odisha.

Every place has its significance in past and present, and the same is with Bhubaneswar. These places to travel in Odisha offers you so many amazing things those you will love to explore.

Book your road trips with Odisha vacation. Explore the area you want – be it beaches, sanctuary, waterfalls or temples within your travel in Odisha list and leave every other headach to Odisha Vacation.

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mystevejordan-blog · 6 years

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SWOSTI CHILIKA RESORT – WHERE NATURE MEETS LUXURY

Away from the concrete jungle, Swosti’s Chilika resort is being recognized as the perfect getaway destination by nature enthusiasts and corporate biggies who wish to relax and reconnect amidst

What do you picture yourself doing the next time you have a couple of days off of your hectic schedule? Rather than lazing around on the sofa all day, how about enjoying a meal cooked especially for you amidst nature? Let the stress and troubles of the city life melt away by attentive pampering at Swosti Chilika Resort. Take in the lush greenery and recline comfortably as the song of birds softly fills your surroundings. Swosti Group’s latest addition, promises its guests a piece of heaven right on the shore of the largest la- goon in the Northern Hemisphere. This eco-friendly resort, a one of its kind in the state, allows you to experience the natural beauty of Odisha without compromising on style or comfort.

AWAY FROM THE CONCRETE JUNGLE

Spread over nine acres of lush green area, it is the perfect place to relax

and recharge while your comfort becomes the priority for the resort’s very competent workforce. Given its location, the resort is the hub of ecotourism. While the more adventurous souls can take nature walks or go bird watching near the resort, those who wish to relax can take one of the in-house boat rides to the nearby Kalijai temple and follow it up with a peaceful day by the pool on return. If you love gardening, the resort also has its own horticulture section, where guests can learn about what actually goes into their delicious meals. The horticulture section houses various varieties of spices, medicinal plants, fruits, flowers and vegetables. Budding photographers too will find ample photo opportunities and a lot of scope to capture birds and animals in their natural habitat.

ACTIVITIES GALORE Beautiful islands, varied flora and fauna, exquisite migratory birds, picturesque villages and dolphin sightings make Swosti Chilika Resort one of the most exciting places to be in any time of the year. The resort has in- store various recreational, leisure and sports activities to help its guests en- joy their stay to the fullest. The nature lovers can explore the natural bounty around through activities like, nature walks and bird watching, and during the in-season visiting the haunts of the migratory birds and the hatching of Olive Ridley turtles. Those looking for fun and adventure may enjoy boat ride round the numerous islands or explore the lake at their own pace on a jet ski. These are few of the many water sport activities that the resort of- fers. The in-house amphitheatre also organises cultural programmes from time to time for its guests. You can get a taste of the local culture and art through these programmes.While these hold true, Swosti Chilika Resort is also an upcoming haunt for major companies and businesses that hold their corporate events and conferences in the resort’s immaculate conference halls and board room. These provide the perfect ground for inspiration, away from the lacklustre corporate environment. The resort is also equally adept at handling weddings and related functions. With such an exquisite location and services, the resort has become a much favoured destination for weddings.

It provides world class experience, quality food and stress-free wedding arrangements. Now that’s what we call a package deal!

GO WILD PACKAGE - CHILIKA TO RUSHIKULYA

While the sight and the natural splendour of the Chilika Lake bring solace to a restless mind and soul, what unfolds at the Rushikulya Beach is an absolutely exhilarating experience where Olive Ridley Turtles in thousands visit to lay eggs, and where they hatch. To bring the best of both the worlds Swosti Chilika Resort offers an incredible package tour.

PACKAGE DETAILS

• Welcome drinks and Fruit Basket in the room

• Badminton Court Usage

• Activities throughout the day like Yoga, Tree Plantation, Towel

art, and many more.

• Usage of Game Zones & Swimming Pool

• Hi-Speed Wireless Internet

• Safe Deposit locker facility

• 420 Sqft. room including balcony, facing Amphitheatre

• 32 inch LED Television

• Tea/Coffee maker in room

• 02 Bottles of Package Drinking Water per day

• Pick up & Drop facilities to Rushikulya Beach

• Mid-Night snacks on travel

• Share transport with Guide

VALUE ADDITION

• 20% Discount on Ala-Carte Food

• 10% Discount on Laundry

• Includes Room, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner at Orana

Restaurant

• 01 Child up to 7 years can stay

without charge

• SPA Coupon worth Rs. 500/- per pax per day

@ INR 11999/- + Taxes (02 Pax)

WHAT TO EXPECT

The journey to Swosti Chilika Resort by road is most picturesque and full of natural beauty. Be it any season, the surrounding hills are covered in a brilliant green shade and the natural light during the day lends everything a beautiful glow. Once at the gates of the resort, you know you are in from a treat. The Chilika Lake comes into view once you go in through the gates and reach the reception of the resort. At first glance, you will recognise the South-East Asian style of architecture that was lent by the resort’s designer from Thailand. This said, elements of Odisha’s art and culture have also been included to compliment the decor.

The staff here is warm, courteous and always ready to help the guests. The resort presently houses 78 rooms, which are divided into three categories – luxury rooms, state-of-the-art ultra modern luxury villas and lake view pool villas. A presidential villa is also available to those who live life king size. Once you are unpacked, head over to Orana, the resort’s dine-in restaurant that serves fresh produce and seafood. The scrumptious local delicacies are a must have here. The restaurant is known for its signature dish, Daab Chinguri, where fresh prawns are cooked with local spices in a tender coco- nut. Post a satisfying meal and a comfortable snooze, be sure to explore the surroundings on one of the many bicycles the resort has for its guests. En route, stop for a refreshing cold coffee or lemon tea at the resort’s coffee shop, Beanhive. You may also head to Ekayaa, the resort’s spa villa that houses a spa, gym and yoga centre. Relax with one of the many specialised treatments like shirodhara, or massages like the lava stone massage to experience pure bliss. Couples on vacation too can avail couple therapy and massages. If you’re looking for something simpler, head to the in-house swimming pool and enjoy drinks by the poolside. You may also enjoy the open air restaurant, Tangrr, which overlooks the lake and serves mouth- watering tandoori delicacies and fresh local catch.

The resort is also a great spot for family get-togethers and family vacations. While the adults enjoy the various amenities mentioned above, the youngsters can spend time at the resort’s game zones – Relayy and Breakk. Complete with a pool table, the game zones are loaded with games and amenities that are sure the keep the young minds engaged. Apart from this, the resort also organises open grill nights at a nearby island.

MUST VISIT

Kalijai Temple one of the major holy shrines dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali Jai, also worshipped as Istha Devi by fishermen in the region.

1-Olasingh to see the textile village ( one of the most famous Tassar weaving village )

2-Manglajodi the Bird’s Paradise. Take a boat cruise to visit the migratory birds

3-Nalabana Island - Birding enthusiasts can visit Nalabana BirdSanctuary, when several migratory birds descend to the island from Siberia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq and Himalayas.

4-Narayani temple one of the sacred places dedicated to Goddess Narayani, manifestation of Durga

5-Tampara nice tourist spot. Enjoy boating in the serene water while enjoying the green beauty on the both side

6-Taratarini temple is a popular sacred shrine, which is dedicated to twin Goddesses Tara and Tarini perched on top of a blue capped hill

7-Taptapani is famous for its hot water sulphuric spring

8-Gopalpur famous sea beach and tourist destination around 15 km from Berhampur

9-Satpada popular for dolphin sighting and also provides boating opportunities

10-Jagannath temple the greatest attraction of Puri revered pilgrimage destination, with a main temple & 30 smaller surrounding ones.

11-Sun Temple of Konark, often called as the Black Pagoda built in black granite is an Architecture Marvel of Eastern India and A symbol of India’s heritage.

PROMOTING NATURE

Swosti Chilika Resort has been recognised as a Platinum rated green building by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). A green building is one which uses less water, optimises energy efficiency, conserves natural resources, generates less waste and provides healthier spaces for occupants, as compared to a conventional building. As an eco-friendly resort, Swosti Chilika ensures that it limits the wastage of food. The leftovers and biodegradable waste are reused as green manure that is used at the resort for organic farming. As per the Chairman and Managing Director of Swosti Group, J K Mohanty, similar initiatives will be implemented at all hotels and resorts that the company has proposed at Puri, Satpada and Bhitarkanika. This will ensure that the tourism in these areas grows without affecting the natural balance adversely.

Participate in Lucky Draw & Win exciting Prizes

Send us a catchy jingle about the Swosti Chilika Resort that describes its uniqueness and grandeur, and earn a chance to win attractive prizes!!

The jingle must be inspired by Chilika’s natural beauty, and bring in a local flavour.

So bring out your thinking caps and mighty pens, and send in your entries to [email protected] by 20th September 2018.Hurry!!!

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soponhara · 6 years

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What was it Like?

“Are you sure you want to do it?”

“Absolutely!”

“What if anything happens on the way?”

“I’ll see when it happens…”

“It’s going to be really difficult you know… also dangerous maybe.”

“I know… but I also think that’s kind of the point, you know…”

It was 11 in the night I was with a friend, meeting her for the last time before I would leave for Hyderabad. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared. I was terrified. But, I guess that was the entire point - To get rid of that scared part of me. And it wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t taken this 1700 km long road trip. The idea was incepted in February 2018 during this other trip I had taken with a couple of other riders to the North-East Belt of India. It was during this trip where I re-discovered myself as a motorcyclist. I had almost forgotten what a back-breaking-all-day-long journey felt like. But once my memory was re-kindled, there was no turning back from it this time.

I left home early in the morning, sometime around 4 or 5. Dad helped me tying up my bags on the back of the bike. His old wrinkly face carried the joy and worry of having an independent son. I hugged my mom and dad, kick-started my bike and hit the asphalt. I can’t even start to explain the paranoia I was experiencing.

Early mornings and late nights are when you can hear the city breathing. It’s when you can feel the city to its soul. And I’m so glad I planned my way out of the city at such time when I could hear it breathing one last time. Once I had reached the highway out of the city, it was only after that my paranoia started to settle down. The rumbling of the engine had started to feel more like music now. The rhythmic transmission of gears and curves, it felt like home. Like it was where I was supposed to be. Like it was what I was supposed to do. My plan was very simple and had no complications. Drive as long as you can, as far as you can, stop wherever you felt like stopping, smoke a cigarette, hydrate yourself, feed yourself, and repeat.

Travelling alone especially on a motorcycle may sound a little overwhelming but it has its own perks. Sure you don’t get anyone to help you if any trouble was to break loose on you. But you also don’t have to deal with drama and liabilities. When I started the trip, I focussed more on the latter part but the former part didn’t quite leave me alone as well, but we’ll get there when we get there.

My first stop wasn’t much far away from home. Mandarmani, not very far from Odisha-Bengal border as well. Very quiet, about 10 people on a 3 km long beach and it was clean. There wasn’t much to that place but to my favour, the weather that evening was simply amazing. It was cloudy to the point of a storm but no storm. The wind sounded as if it carried the ghosts of all the men who once lost themselves in the deep ocean. It was hauntingly beautiful. And so more it was after a few joints. It was a high tide that night. I spent some good 3 hours sitting alone on a broken pillar on the beach doing nothing; absolutely nothing. It was the most beautiful feeling I had experienced in a very long time. As if time had stopped, and it stopped for me. The howling winds put on the most enchanting score and the setting sun made the sky bleed.

I tried to leave the place next day as early as possible which I’ll figure out later wasn’t early enough. It was all good and merry and as any normal journey should be when I left from that place in the morning. The first few miles were through broken stretches within local villages which fell on the border of Odisha and Bengal but then after that, I found the highway everything and everything went back to normal; at least it seemed like it did. I was doing absolutely fine, rocking over 100kmph easily and then suddenly the bike halted. It coughed a little and then finally the engine shut itself. I got down the bike and fidgeted with carb and spark plug socket to check if everything was fine, which was. I tried to figure out what exactly had happened but nothing I was doing making the bike start. I dragged the bike for a few 100 metres and found a local bike workshop. I asked the mechanic to take a look at which even after my repeated requests, he refused upfront on the face saying we don’t service Enfields. So I turned to uncle Google for help and located the nearest Royal Enfield Service centre. I called them up for an on-site breakdown servicing. The technician came after some 40 minutes. Took almost 3 hours to figure out the problem and fix the bike.

I knew I was already late and running behind time. I should have reached my next stop for the day. I decided to not stop for the meal and would have food straight at the resort I had booked in Gopalpur, Odisha. I reached Gopalpur sometime around 9 in the evening which I should have by 5. Anyway, shit happens. Right? You can either let it drag you down with you or dust it off. I drove at un-natural speeds for an Enfiled bike. Which did cause the bike a few damages, not engine wise but other mechanics. Nothing major, just a few loose bolts here and there. I had already decided to stay in Gopalpur for another day and fix the bike.

The resort I had booked was some 20 km away from the highway and that 20 km stretch was pitch black dark. No Street lights, almost non-existent population. Only the silhouettes of small mountains which I could see under the clear moonlit sky. It was scary but amazing. The resort was located on a slope from where the road would directly lead you to the beach. As the keys to my rooms were handed over I asked the attendant if there was a place somewhere near where I can get a few beers. The owner of the resort was himself sitting in a room in front of the reception with his father with glasses filled with whiskey came out and asked me to freshen up and come down there. “We ourselves are always on a lookout for people to have drinks with.” I nodded and went up to my room. I settled in my room and cleaned up. took a short nap and then came downstairs to look for dinner. To my surprise, the father-son duo was still going on with their booze.

"Hi..." "Join us", the old guy said. "So you're coming from Punjab?" He asked. "I'd like to think so but no, I'm riding from Kolkata." "We thought you're coming from Punjab. I saw the number plate on your bike," said the son. "I used to live in Punjab at one time." "Where are you going?" "Hyderabad." "Waise hi ghumne or something else?" "...something else," I said. "I once used to do a lot of bike trips," said the old guy pouring some whiskey in his glass. "I owned a 76 model Jawa CL-II" He continued, "My friends and I would go to all the worst roads ever to drive a bike on." "Why the worst?" I asked. "They change you for the better. Paved roads are fun to ride. But putty roads, boulders, fields, mountains... they teach you how to ride."This discussion ran for something over 3 hours before I finally bid my farewell to them for the night and went back to my room to sleep. Although I was dead tired- But sitting with them and talking... For a brief moment, I had forgotten my body needed rest as well. Long story short - It was a day well ended.

The next day I woke up early despite sleeping late. I smoked a cigarette and pulled my tools out of the bag and went down to the parking area. I spent the morning fixing up the bike. By the time I was done it was already lunchtime. I freshened up and went out to explore the town a little. I found this really small shack on the beach. The weather was humid but it wasn't hot. I spent around 2 hours roaming the town before coming back to resort. The attendant called me up and gave me some weed wrapped up in a newspaper with a chillum and said, "Sir bol ke gaye hai apko dene ke liye"(Sir asked me to give it to you) I was nothing but all smiles. I smoked up and the rest was just a trance.

I left Gopalpur at around 5:30 in the morning. The morning sea breeze begged me to stay for a few more days but the calling was greater for me. I drove for about 3 hours before reaching Vizag. I didn't get to take a trip around the city but I did stop there for breakfast. The day was beautiful and the roads were more so, the weather was favourable and everything else was just falling together to make a great day ahead, till someone crashed their van behind my bike. The rear fender was all damaged. I couldn't really argue with the guy because, language. I somehow drove to the nearest bike repair shop and asked them to take the rear fender off the bike. I knew I wouldn't be able to carry it along so I left it with them. Spent another hour at the bike shop and then I was on my way again.

Luckily I wasn't too late to see the sunset this time. Name of the place? Odalarevu. It's almost a virgin beach with just one resort in the radius of about 50 km. Which I thought would be a great idea to stay there. You know fewer people; more peace. Which it was. The place echoed with the sounds of sea waves. The only problem was the resort itself. The room which was given to me looked like it had been kept shut and untouched since the resort opened. If you have arachnophobia, you don't want to be here then. The room was full of cobwebs and mosquitoes. The food, OMG the food... The food tasted like it was lying in the fridge for about 10 days before they heated it up and served me. I did not eat that night. Couldn't risk the ride the next day.

I started my last day of the ride as early as 4 in the morning. One, I didn't want the evening office traffic to be the first thing to hit me in Hyderabad, and two, I couldn't sleep properly well because of mosquitoes. And with something or the other happening with me or my bike on every ride-day, I was mentally prepared that day for anything the world had to throw at me. For me, it was like - What's the worst that could happen? I started off the morning with the first bracket of my ride being 120 km. I stopped at a roadside stall for some tea and something to eat. It was about the time when the sun was rising, I finished my breakfast and tea. Ok, let me tell you something. You are on a highway stretch and both sides of the roads are covered with a tree belt and beyond the belt is barren land for as far as your eyes can see. And from that horizon you see the morning sun gliding up the sky slowly like your lover who woke up after a good night's sleep, playing hide and seek with the clouds as if she asks to sleep a little more and then finally rises up, spreading and gleaming all her warmth and when that warmth falls on your face - At that moment, you are in euphoria.

The weather was beautiful and so were the roads. I was doing really 120-130kmph easily and the ride couldn't go any smoother. As I was nearing Hyderabad - As much joy I felt, It was almost equally saddening. The ride was almost over. The joy of having it done, having ridden so far for so long and all on my own, and the sorrow of it all being over. It's like one of those things with which you have that love-hate kind of relationship. You hate going through it while you don't want it to get over as well. It was Eid that day and the city greeted me with herds of people dressed in whites moving in unison on the roads either or bikes or walking. It looked like nothing I've ever seen before. This never came to my mind that It was essentially an off day for people and instead of office traffic I was witnessing the festive hurdles. I had already arranged for my accommodation and everything else needed, even before I started the trip. I reached there sometime around 2 in the noon. I rode about 600 km that day - Ideally I should've been tired but that didn't happen. I threw my bags in my room, checked my phone, countless notifications, I called up my friend and said, "Oi... Pohuche gechi!"(I reached) with a grin almost as wide as my face. We talked for another few minutes and then I informed my parents about my arrival.

A couple of people have asked me since then, "what was it like?" and all I could tell them was it was one of the most painful yet most beautiful things I've done. I guess that's why Ibn Battuta said, "Travelling leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller."

#Motorcycle #Road trip #spilled ink #kolkata #hyderabad #thoughts #life #challenge #moving #bobber #chopper #royal enfield #india #highways #prose

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