Heritage Craft Tour of Orissa (Pattachitra, Applique and Dhokra Craft)

Here's a 5-day travel itinerary to explore the crafts of Pattachitra, applique work, and Dhokra craft in Raghurajpur, Pipli, and Artisan Village Sadeibereni near Dhenkanal:

 Day 1: Arrival in Bhubaneswar 

Morning

• Arrive in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. Check into your hotel.
• Visit the Odisha State Museum to get a preliminary understanding of local arts and crafts.

Afternoon

• Enjoy a traditional Odia lunch.
• Visit the Ekamra Haat, an urban market showcasing various crafts from across Odisha.

Evening

• Relax at your hotel or take a stroll around the local markets to get a feel of the city's vibe.

 Day 2: Bhubaneswar to Raghurajpur 

Morning

• Early breakfast and departure to Raghurajpur (approx. 2 hours drive).
• Arrive in Raghurajpur, a heritage crafts village renowned for Pattachitra painting.

Afternoon

• Explore the village, visit local artisans, and witness the intricate process of Pattachitra painting.
• Have lunch with a local family or at a nearby eatery serving traditional Odia cuisine.

Evening

• Attend a cultural performance by the local Gotipua dancers, a traditional dance form that is part of the village's heritage.
• Return to your accommodation in Puri (a nearby city, approx. 20 minutes drive) and rest.

 Day 3: Puri to Pipli 

Morning

• Breakfast and departure to Pipli (approx. 1 hour drive from Puri).
• Arrive in Pipli, famous for its vibrant applique work.

Afternoon

• Visit local workshops and learn about the applique craft. Engage with artisans and try your hand at creating a piece.
• Lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional dishes.

Evening

• Shop for unique applique items such as lampshades, garden umbrellas, and wall hangings.
• Return to your accommodation in Bhubaneswar (approx. 1 hour drive) for an overnight stay.

 Day 4: Bhubaneswar to Sadeibereni via Dhenkanal 

Morning

• Early breakfast and departure to Dhenkanal (approx. 2.5 hours drive).
• Arrive in Dhenkanal and then proceed to Sadeibereni, a village renowned for its Dhokra craft (approx. 1 hour drive from Dhenkanal).

Afternoon

• Explore Sadeibereni, visit the artisans' homes, and observe the Dhokra metal casting process, a traditional method using the lost-wax technique.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by a local family.

Evening

• Purchase Dhokra artifacts directly from the artisans as souvenirs.
• Return to Dhenkanal and check into your accommodation.

 Day 5: Return to Bhubaneswar 

Morning

• Breakfast and a leisurely morning exploring any remaining sights in Dhenkanal, such as the Dhenkanal Palace or local temples.

Afternoon

• Drive back to Bhubaneswar (approx. 2.5 hours drive).
• Optional: Visit Nandankanan Zoological Park or relax at your hotel.

Evening

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a reputed local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Odia cuisine.
• Prepare for departure the next day.

This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of Odisha's rich craft heritage, allowing ample time to explore, interact with artisans, and appreciate the traditional arts of Pattachitra, applique, and Dhokra craft.