14-Day Odisha Road Trip Itinerary: Explore Temples, Beaches, Wildlife & Culture

Day 1: Heritage Beginnings

Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dalma Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Odia breakfast like Pakhala Bhata with fried or mashed vegetables, a local favorite in Bhubaneswar. Dalma is known for authentic flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
INR150, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Lingaraj Temple

An iconic 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, displaying magnificent Kalinga architecture and intricate stone carvings. A must-see landmark representing Odisha's spiritual heritage.
Free entry; donations appreciated, 2h0m

12:00pm

Explore Mukteshwar Temple

A smaller but exquisitely sculptured temple, known as the 'Gem of Kalinga Architecture' from the 10th century, featuring ornate toranas and motifs.
Free entry, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Trupti Vegetarian Restaurant

Sample traditional Odia thali with seasonal vegetables, dal, rice, and dessert. The vegetarian menu offers comfort food in a clean setting close to temples.
INR250, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Dhauli Peace Pagoda

Drive 10 km south to Dhauli, a historic peace monument on the banks of the Daya river marking the site of the ancient Kalinga War. Explore the Shanti Stupa and nearby Ashokan rock edicts.
Free entry, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at your accommodation

Check into Mayfair Lagoon, a mid-range resort offering good comfort and amenities in Bhubaneswar city center.
INR4500/night, Rest and recharge

7:30pm

Dinner at Kanika Restaurant

Experience Odisha’s coastal flavors with seafood thali featuring items like crab curry, prawn malai curry, and steamed rice. Kanika is famed for its authentic dishes and ambiance.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 2: Temple Trails

Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel to fuel for morning sightseeing.
Included in accommodation, 30m

8:30am

Visit Rajarani Temple

Step into the serene garden setting of the 11th-century Rajarani Temple, known for its sculptural beauty and made from distinctive red and yellow sandstone.
INR 20, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Hirapur Jain Temple Complex

Discover the ancient heritage of Jainism in Odisha with beautiful temples featuring intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings.
Free entry, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Mayfair Café

Dine on a mix of Indian and continental dishes in this elegant café within Mayfair Lagoon hotel premises to recharge.
INR450, 1h0m

1:00pm

Museum Visit: Odisha State Museum

Explore the museum’s rich collection of archaeological artifacts, traditional crafts, textiles, and historical relics highlighting Odisha’s culture.
INR 40, 2h0m

3:30pm

Shopping at Ekamra Haat

Browse Odisha’s famed handloom textiles, silver filigree jewelry, Pattachitra paintings, and handicrafts in this open-air craft village.
Free entry, 2h0m

6:00pm

Drive to Puri

Leave Bhubaneswar and head 60 km southeast to Puri, the famous beach town and pilgrimage destination (approximate drive time 1.5 hours).
Fuel INR 300 approx., 1h30m

7:45pm

Check-in & Dinner at Hotel Holiday Resort

Comfortable mid-range beachfront stay with good dining options offering Odia and multi-cuisine food.
INR3500/night; Dinner approx. INR 500, Relax and eat
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Day 3: Beach & Culture

Puri, Odisha, India on July 9, 2025

7:30am

Sunrise at Puri Beach

Experience the serene sunrise with locals performing morning rituals by the shore. Walk along the sandy beach to feel the fresh sea breeze.
Free, 1h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Wildgrass Restaurant

Taste fresh seafood and typical coastal Odia breakfast like Bara and Chakuli Pitha with chutneys in this cozy eatery near the beach.
INR300, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Jagannath Temple

One of India’s four Char Dhams and an active Hindu temple famous for the annual Rath Yatra festival; non-Hindus cannot enter but can view from outside quietly.
Free viewing from outside, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Gundicha Temple and Puri Local Market

Walk to the nearby Gundicha Temple and wander Puri’s bustling market streets for local handicrafts, sweets, and souvenirs.
Free entry; market shopping varies, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Brown's Café

Famous for Odia snacks, fresh juices, and desserts, Brown's Café is a heritage café perfect for light lunch with local charm.
INR250, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Hotel or Optional Visit to Chilika Lake (Part 1)

Rest at the hotel or book an afternoon boat trip to Chilika Lake outskirts visiting Nalaban Island bird sanctuary or nearby spots.
Boat trip approx. INR600-800, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or Try Local Street Food

Enjoy dinner at your hotel or sample street vendors’ grilled seafood, Macha Tarkari (fish curry), and local sweets like Rasagola and Chenna Poda.
INR300 approx., 1h30m
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Day 4: Sun Temple & Sea

Konark, Odisha, India on July 10, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast & Drive to Konark

Have hotel breakfast before checking out and drive approx. 35 km to Konark, famous for the Sun Temple, journey takes about 1 hour.
Breakfast included; fuel INR 200, 1h30m

9:00am

Visit Konark Sun Temple

Explore the magnificent 13th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing exquisite stone carvings and monumental chariot architecture.
INR 40, 2h0m

11:30am

Konark Museum visit

Adjacent to the temple, the museum houses sculptures and artifacts related to the Sun Temple and Odisha’s art heritage.
INR 20, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Chandrabhaga Restaurant

Try Odia seafood dishes and local curries like crab curry and Prawn Malai Curry. The restaurant overlooks the Bay of Bengal for a scenic meal.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Chandrabhaga Beach

Unwind at the calm and less crowded Chandrabhaga Beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and spotting migratory birds.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check-in at Hotel Sonashree or Konark Sarovar Portico

Choose mid-range comfortable accommodation close to the temple and beaches.
INR 3000-4000/night, Rest

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel or Local Eatery

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring regional specials such as Dalma, Chhena Jhili dessert, and fresh seafood at hotel or nearby.
INR400 approx., 1h30m
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Day 5: Lake & Lagoon

Chilika Lake, Odisha, India on July 11, 2025

6:30am

Early Drive to Satpada near Chilika Lake

Depart early to reach Satpada, gateway to Chilika Lake, around 90 km from Konark. Road trip takes about 2.5 hours.
Fuel INR 400 approx., 2h30m

9:30am

Boat Safari on Chilika Lake

Enjoy a full morning boat excursion spotting Irrawaddy dolphins, migratory birds, and tranquil lagoons.
Boat hire INR 800-1200 per trip, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nalabana Eco Tourism Center

Relax with fresh seafood and traditional Odia dishes in eco-friendly surroundings near the lake.
INR 350, 1h0m

1:45pm

Visit Kalijai Island Temple

Take a short boat trip to the temple dedicated to the Goddess Kalijai, set amidst the picturesque lake waters.
Included in boat trip cost, 1h0m

3:00pm

Travel to Gopalpur-on-Sea

Drive 70 km south to the quiet beach town of Gopalpur-on-Sea for coastal tranquility, journey takes approx 2 hrs.
Fuel cost ~ INR 350, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check in at Hotel Sea Pearl Beach Resort

Seaside resort offering comfortable rooms and easy beach access, ideal for sunset and relaxation.
INR 3500/night, Rest

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant or Local Seafood Shack

Savor fresh catch of the day grilled or curried with traditional Odia spices at a beachside eatery or hotel.
INR 500 approx., 1h0m
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Day 6: Coastal Temples

Gopalpur & Taratarini, Odisha, India on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast offering local and continental options.
Included in accommodation, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Taratarini Temple

Travel approximately 40 km north to one of Odisha’s oldest pilgrimage sites, atop Kumari Hills.
Fuel INR 200, 1h0m

10:15am

Visit Taratarini Temple

Explore this twin-shrined temple dedicated to the goddess Tara and Tarini, revered as one of the Shakti Peethas, with panoramic views from the hill.
Free entry, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Try traditional Odia rural dishes such as mandi with rice or local fish fry at a nearby eatery.
INR 200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Gopalpur & Beach Walk

Spend afternoon walking on Gopalpur beach, relax or swim in the calm waters.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit Gopalpur Market

Shop fresh catch from fishermen’s market or handcrafted souvenirs, and interact with friendly local vendors.
Free entry; shopping varies, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sea Pearl Beach Resort

Enjoy a variety of fresh seafood and Indian dishes in a scenic setting close to the beach.
INR 500 approx., 1h30m
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Day 7: Long Drive & Dam Visit

Gopalpur to Sambalpur, Odisha, India on July 13, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast & Start Long Drive

Fuel up and have an early hearty breakfast at hotel before embarking on the 260 km, roughly 6-hour drive north to Sambalpur region.
Breakfast included; Fuel ~ INR 1000, 6h0m

12:30pm

Lunch on way at roadside Dhaba

Try authentic local Odia flavors such as Chhena Tarkari (cottage cheese curry) and steamed rice at a recommended clean stop.
INR 150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Hirakud Dam

See one of Asia’s longest earthen dams built across the Mahanadi river; enjoy panoramic views, boating and walkways.
Entry free; boating INR 100-200, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check in at Ispat Hotel or Hotel Ashoka Grand

Mid-range hotels with comfortable amenities in Sambalpur city.
INR 3000/night, Rest

7:30pm

Dinner at local restaurant: Mie Munh Restaurant

Taste spicy Sambalpuri cuisine, including Dalma and fish curry specialties, in a casual atmosphere.
INR 400 approx., 1h30m
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Day 8: Wildlife & Culture

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary & Sambalpur, Odisha, India on July 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading out for wildlife exploration.
Included in accommodation, 30m

8:00am

Trip to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Drive around 40 km to Debrigarh Sanctuary, home to elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species; take guided trekking or jeep safari options.
Entry INR 100; guide/jeep extra approx. INR 500-800, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local Dhaba near Sanctuary

Simple, hearty Odia meals; typical items include local vegetables, rice, and fish fry.
INR 200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Sambalpur and Visit Huma Temple

Visit the unique Sun Temple at Huma famous for its leaning tower just outside Sambalpur city.
Free entry, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at hotel

Afternoon rest and optional local shopping.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or local restaurant

End the day sampling more Sambalpuri cuisine with spicy curries and sweets such as Rasabali.
INR 400, 1h30m
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Day 9: Hill Temples

Gandhamardan Hills, Odisha, India on July 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & Drive to Gandhamardan Hills

Set off early for the 100 km ride to the hill range famous for medicinal plants and twin temples of Nrusinghanath and Harishankar.
Fuel approx INR 400, 2h30m

10:30am

Trek & Visit Nrusinghanath Temple

Explore the temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha surrounded by rich vegetation and beautiful views; moderate trekking required.
Free entry, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at local hillside eatery

Enjoy simple Odia vegetarian fare and fresh mountain spring water.
INR 150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Harishankar Temple

Located on the other side of the hills, this temple is another spiritual site harmonizing nature and architecture.
Free, 1h30m

4:15pm

Check in at Harishankar Eco Resort or nearby guesthouse

Stay close to temples with an eco-friendly resort offering basic amenities amidst nature.
INR 2000-3000/night, Rest

7:00pm

Traditional Dinner at Resort

Experience home-cooked Odia dishes with local ingredients in a peaceful ambiance.
INR 350, 1h30m
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Day 10: Return & Market Stroll

Sambalpur, Odisha, India on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Drive back to Sambalpur

After breakfast, drive back approx. 100 km to Sambalpur city center to relax and explore local markets.
Fuel approx. INR 400, 2h30m

11:00am

Visit Sambalpuri Handloom Market

Shop for Sambalpuri sarees and textiles known for intricate weaving and vibrant colors, a great place to pick souvenirs.
Free entry; shopping varies, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Hotel or Local Restaurant

Dine on authentic local dishes including Rasagola sweet post-meal.
INR 300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at hotel or visit local sights like Leaning Temple of Huma again

Optional afternoon rest or sightseeing within city for remaining daylight.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at local eatery

Sample more Sambalpuri delicacies like mustard greens and fish curries in a popular local spot.
INR 350, 1h30m
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Day 11: Wildlife & Nature

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, India on July 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for wildlife day with wholesome meal.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Head to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

A short 1-hour drive to the sanctuary for jungle safari and bird watching. Book jeep safari or guided trek.
Entry INR 100; jeep safari approx. INR 600, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at sanctuary guesthouse or nearby Dhaba

Enjoy simple fuel with local cuisine amid nature settings.
INR 200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Tribal Museum near Sanctuary

Learn about tribal communities and culture indigenous to Odisha’s forests.
INR 20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Sambalpur

Drive back 40 km to Sambalpur for evening rest.
Fuel approx. INR 150, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or stroll local park

Leisure and recovery time after wildlife adventures.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel or Mie Munh Restaurant

Delight in the last night in Sambalpur with regional specialties.
INR 400 approx., 1h30m
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Day 12: Return Journey

Sambalpur to Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India on July 18, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast and Depart for Bhubaneswar

Start early for the 350 km drive back east to Bhubaneswar to conclude this road trip, approx 7 hours on the road.
Breakfast included; Fuel INR 1200, 7h0m

1:00pm

Lunch Break at Cuttack

Stop in historic Cuttack city for Oriya snacks such as Bara and Aloo Dum at a popular local eatery.
INR150, 1h0m

2:15pm

Continue drive to Bhubaneswar

Complete the final stretch back to Bhubaneswar.
Fuel INR 200, 3h0m

5:30pm

Check in at Mayfair Lagoon or Hotel Swosti Premium

Familiar comfortable hotels for last night stay in Odisha’s capital.
INR 4500/night, Rest

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Dalma Restaurant

Celebrate the journey with authentic Odia cuisine with family recipes and seasonal specialties.
INR 600, 1h30m
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Day 13: City Wrap-up

Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India on July 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with hotel breakfast for a last day in Bhubaneswar.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Visit Tribal Museum or Odisha Textile Museum

Deepen cultural understanding through exhibits highlighting tribal art, crafts, and textiles distinctive to Odisha.
INR 20 - 40, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Nandankanan Zoological Park (optional)

Optional visit to Nandankanan, famous for white tigers and botanical gardens. Open till 5pm, entry fee applies.
INR 50, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Kanika Restaurant

Light Odia meal and snacks with coastal flavors.
INR 400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Shopping at Ekamra Haat or nearby markets

Last chance to buy handloom fabrics, silver filigree, and traditional art.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local cafés

Wind down with tea or coffee at charming local cafés.
INR 150, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Mayfair Lagoon

Enjoy a final sumptuous dinner featuring local and international cuisine complimented by excellent hospitality.
INR 800, 1h30m
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Day 14: Departure Day

Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India on July 20, 2025

7:00am

Light Breakfast at hotel

A light meal before checking out and heading to the airport or railway station.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Check-out and Transfer

Arrange transfers to Biju Patnaik International Airport or Bhubaneswar Railway Station based on onward travel.
Taxi approx INR 500, Variable

Flexible

Departure

Depart Odisha with wonderful memories of temples, beaches, wildlife, and Odia culture.
N/A, N/A
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