After breakfast, depart for Puri and visit Dhauli and Pipli applqiue center.
Dhauli- Ashoka (reigned c. 272-231 BCE) was the most illustrious king of the Maurya dynasty. After conquering the kingdom of Kalinga in present-day Odisha, stricken with remorse for the suffering he had caused, Ashoka converted to Buddhism and spent the rest of his life propagating his dharma (law). To achieve this goal, he had numerous edicts inscribed on rocks, pillars and caves throughout his vast empire. These edicts are written in various vernaculars and represent the oldest written record of the Indic regions. It is clear from these edicts that Ashoka was an extremely tolerant and benevolent monarch.
Near Dhauli, south of Bhubaneshwar, is a rock on which Emperor Ashoka's edicts are engraved. The front of the rock is carved as the head, trunk and front legs of an elephant. The Shanti Stupa in the Dhauli Hills is a significant symbol of love and peace. The pilgrimage is significant because here King Ashoka resigned from violent wars. After witnessing the devastating spectacle of the earth filled with blood and the Daya River turning red because of the ruthless slaughter of some 1,50,000 warriors, King Ashoka was filled with pure sorrow and thus decided to completely renounce wars for the rest of his life. It was in Dhauli that Ashoka came to Buddhism and presented his sword to Lord Buddha.
Pipli - It is a center for appliqué work, which is the essence of Oriya culture. It is also known for colorful and original awnings, canopies, umbrellas for garden and beach umbrellas, bags and shoulder bags, etc. The cocktail effect of colors is definitely a feast for the eyes. Pipli, the appliqué capital of Odisha, announces itself with strong splashes of bright colors on store fronts. Pipli closes on the last Tuesday of every month.
Later in the day proceed to Puri and check in at the hotel. Most hotels in Puri check in/check out at 08:00-08:30.
Puri, a coastal gem nestled on the Bay of Bengal, weaves the threads of spirituality and serenity into a seamless tapestry. Home to the revered Jagannath Temple, this city located along the sparkling Bay of Bengal, Puri is a coastal paradise that beautifully combines spirituality, scenic splendour and cultural vibrancy. This special tour combines essence of pilgrim and village tour to offer best to visitors. At its heart is the revered Jagannath Temple, a timeless symbol of devotion and inclusion. Visit the Jagannath Temple in Puri, one of India's holiest pilgrimage sites. This 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath-"The Lord of the Universe." Wooden figures of the three deities, Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra, stand in the shrine, adorned and decorated by the high priests.
Note: Non-Hindus cannot enter Jagannath's temple and must view it from outside, across the street.
Interact with local temple priests and immerse yourself in the religious fervour of this holy city. Enjoy the local market on the famous Grand Road.
Overnight hotel stay in Puri