UNRAVELING ODISHA’S RICH TAPESTRY
Odisha, the jewel of eastern India, is a destination that promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Known by its ancient names Utkala and Kalinga, Odisha is a land where time stands still amidst ancient temples, vibrant tribal traditions, and monumental historical events. Imagine walking through the halls of history where the mighty Emperor Asoka was transformed by the Kalinga War, embracing Buddhism and shunning conflict. Picture yourself in the shadow of the magnificent Konarak Sun Temple or the sacred precincts of Puri's Jagannath Temple, where spirituality and architecture come alive.
A NATURAL WONDERLAND: WILD ODISHA
Beyond its historical allure, Odisha’s natural heritage is equally captivating. The state’s unspoiled coastline and labyrinth of rivers create a landscape teeming with life. Lush forests, vibrant wetlands, and enchanting mangroves of Bhitarkanika National Park form a haven for diverse wildlife and flora, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
BHITARKANIKA NATIONAL PARK: A GEM OF BIODIVERSITY
Bhitarkanika National Park is Odisha’s crown jewel, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. Here, the sight of formidable saltwater crocodiles sunning on riverbanks and the majestic Asian water monitors roaming the mangroves will leave you spellbound. The park is also a sanctuary for axis deer, playful rhesus macaques, and various species of mudskippers, making every moment an adventure.
Come September, Bhitarkanika transforms into a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park becomes home to migratory birds such as kingfishers, herons, cormorants, and openbill storks. The park's pristine beaches also serve as nesting grounds for the Olive Ridley Turtles, providing a rare opportunity to witness this natural marvel. The potentially endangered horseshoe crab also calls this unique ecosystem home, adding to its ecological significance.
FOR THE FIRST TIME, LUXURY CRUISING IN BHITARKANIKA
For the first time, luxury cruising comes to Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park and its rivers, home to India’s second largest mangrove system. Staying in the park and cruising at a slow pace allows you to see the abundant flora and fauna all around you, such as the saltwater crocodile and over 320 species of birds.
Antara Cruises offers an unparalleled way to explore Odisha’s natural and cultural treasures. The beautifully appointed catamarans glide along the serene rivers of Bhitarkanika National Park, offering a luxurious and immersive experience that blends adventure with comfort.
WHY CHOOSE ANTARA CRUISES?
Innovative and Pioneering Exploration: Antara’s river journey is the first of its kind in Odisha, presenting a groundbreaking way to explore this mesmerizing state. The cruises are designed to provide an intimate encounter with Odisha’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Luxury Meets Adventure: Experience the thrill of navigating through the mangroves and spotting wildlife from the comfort of a beautifully appointed catamaran. Also, the smaller river country boats take you deeper into the heart of the mangroves for a closer look at the park’s wonders.
Sustainable Tourism: Antara is committed to sustainability, ensuring that their expeditions promote conservation and responsible tourism. Journey with Antara supports eco-tourism initiatives that protect and preserve Odisha’s natural heritage.
ONBOARD ELEGANCE AND COMFORT
All our catamarans have a cozy area for intimate dining and relaxation—a wonderful place to enjoy the delicious cuisine made in our scratch kitchen. Antara catamarans feature suites designed with fresh contemporary furniture, original works of art on palm leaves, handloom textiles, and luxe linen. Every detail is curated to ensure a beautiful night's rest in the heart of the forest, combining luxury with the tranquil ambiance of nature.
HIGHLIGHTS OF BHITARKANIKA SANCTUARY
Wildlife Spectacle: Witness the awe-inspiring sight of saltwater crocodiles and the second-largest lizard species on earth, the Asian water monitors.
Bird Watching Paradise: During winter, Bhitarkanika hosts a plethora of migratory birds, making it a dream destination for bird enthusiasts.
Mangrove Marvels: Explore the rich biodiversity of the mangroves, home to various mudskippers and the endangered horseshoe crab.
Turtle Nesting Grounds: Experience the mesmerizing phenomenon of Olive Ridley Turtles nesting on pristine beaches.
TIPS FOR VISITORS
Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit between September and March for the most pleasant weather and abundant bird sightings. The sanctuary is officially open from August 1st to April 30th.
Accessibility: Kendrapara is the nearest major town, well-connected by road. The closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, and the nearest railway station is in Cuttack.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES WITH ANTARA
Luxury River Cruises: Enjoy the perfect blend of style and comfort on Antara’s catamarans, with smaller boats available for more adventurous excursions into the mangroves.
Village Immersion: Connect with local communities, participate in traditional activities, and gain a deeper understanding of Odisha's rich cultural heritage.
Habalikhati Retreat: Experience a peaceful rural escape, respecting local customs and booking accommodations in advance for a serene stay.
MEET ANTARA CRUISES
THE ANTARA STORY:
Antara believes the best way to see South Asia is from the river. What began in 2003 as a dream for travel industry pioneer and naturalist Raj Singh has today turned into Antara’s thoughtfully designed, well-appointed fleet of nine ships that sail South Asia’s most iconic rivers. Antara offers its guests beautiful perches on moving water from which to enjoy vibrant and meditative landscapes, people, crafts and wildlife. Our philosophy is to bring the region’s indigenous environments and cultures to the world, sustainably, and with its renowned hospitality, in ships that are designed with thought, luxury and care.
Antara cruises encompass the Ganga, the Padma and the Brahmaputra River systems to make the world’s longest river cruise. In 2023, Antara will start sailing the four rivers that inundate Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second largest mangrove forest.
GANGES EXPEDITION
Antara Cruises offers an extraordinary expedition cruising experience on the Ganges River, capitalizing on its immense cultural, historical, and spiritual significance. Flowing through cities like Varanasi, Patna, and Kolkata, the Ganges allows our guests to explore ancient temples, ghats, and heritage sites, immersing themselves in India's rich cultural tapestry. The river's sacred status in Hinduism provides opportunities to witness and participate in profound spiritual rituals, such as the evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies in Varanasi. The diverse landscapes, from the Himalayas' foothills to North India's fertile plains, offer breathtaking scenery and a tranquil backdrop for our cruises. Guests also enjoy curated culinary experiences that highlight local flavors and traditional dishes, complementing their cultural exploration. Our exclusive shore excursions delve deeper into life along the Ganges, including guided tours of historic cities, visits to local markets, interactions with artisans, and explorations of traditional villages. Committed to sustainability, we emphasize eco-friendly operations and support for local communities, preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the regions we visit. The Ganges River's spiritual depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty make it our fastest-growing destination for expedition cruising, exemplifying Antara Cruises' dedication to offering exceptional and transformative journeys.
VARANASI SPECIAL CRUISE
Antara Cruises offers a special cruising experience in Varanasi, a city revered as the holiest in Hinduism and Jainism, and historically significant in the development of Buddhism. Known as Banaras or Kashi, Varanasi attracts pilgrims from around the world, drawn by the belief that death in this sacred city brings salvation. The city’s iconic ghats, stone slab embankments along the river where ritual ablutions are performed, are a focal point of spiritual life. Our 3-night, 4-day Varanasi Special Cruise immerses guests in the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city, offering an unparalleled journey through its spiritual and historical landscape.
ANTARA CRUISES IN IMAGES
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