Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Jagannath Temple, one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. This temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra and brother Balabhadra. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls of the temple are mesmerising to look at. Make sure to try the famous Mahaprasad, a sacred food offered to the Lord, served at the temple canteen.
Afternoon: Have lunch at the Hotel Sagar Tarang, located just a few minutes walk from the temple. This restaurant serves delicious vegetarian food at reasonable prices. After lunch, take a stroll along the beautiful Puri Beach, which is just a 10-minute walk from the temple. The beach is clean and less crowded during weekdays. You can also try some water sports here.
Evening: End your day by watching the Sand Art show at the Sudarshan Sand Art Institute, located just 5 minutes from the beach. The institute hosts daily sand art shows which are a visual treat to the eyes. The art pieces depict mythological stories and current issues with great detail.
Morning: Start early and drive to Chilika Lake, which is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. The scenic beauty of this place is mesmerising. You can go on a boat ride and spot different species of birds and dolphins. Make sure to carry sunscreen and a hat as it can get quite hot during the day.
Afternoon: Have lunch at the Panthanivas Chilika, a government-run restaurant that serves fresh seafood. You can also buy some fresh seafood from the nearby market. After lunch, visit the Kalijai Temple, which is located on an island in the lake. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalijai and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
Evening: Head back to Puri and visit the Raghurajpur Artist Village, which is located on the outskirts of the town. The village is famous for its Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings and wooden toys. You can watch the artists at work and buy some souvenirs for your loved ones.
If you have an extra day, you can visit the Konark Sun Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also try some local street food like the Pani Puri and Aloo Dum. To maximise your fun, try attending the Puri Beach Festival, which is held annually in November.
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