Welcome to Orissa! Start your trip in the capital city of Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the ancient Lingaraj Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site known for its architectural beauty. In the afternoon, explore the Odisha State Museum, which houses a rich collection of historical artifacts. As the evening approaches, take a stroll in Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, a serene green space perfect for relaxation.
Odisha State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Wild Grass Restaurant. This cozy eatery offers a variety of South Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Waterfront Cafe. Located near the Bindu Sagar Lake, this restaurant serves delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try Hare Krishna Restaurant. Known for its authentic Indian thali meals, this restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Saturday, December 16: Puri
On the second day, travel to the coastal town of Puri. In the morning, visit the famous Jagannath Temple, an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Explore the Puri Beach in the afternoon, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. In the evening, take a walk along the bustling Grand Road (Bada Danda), lined with shops and eateries.
Grand Road (Bada Danda): Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Sunday, December 17: Konark
Embark on a day trip to Konark, famous for the Sun Temple. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its intricate stone carvings and impressive architecture. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Chandrabhaga Beach, located nearby. In the afternoon, visit the Konark Museum to learn more about the temple's history and significance.
Sun Temple: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Konark Museum: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Monday, December 18: Cuttack
Take a day trip to Cuttack, the former capital city of Orissa. Start your morning with a visit to the Barabati Fort, known for its ancient architecture and scenic views. Explore the Netaji Birthplace Museum in the afternoon, dedicated to the life and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Mahanadi River to enjoy the cityscape.
Netaji Birthplace Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Mahanadi River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Cuttack is Café Coffee Day, offering a variety of delicious pastries and refreshing coffee drinks. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Mangala Vegetarian Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
In the evening, head to The Garden Café for dinner, known for its beautiful outdoor seating area and a menu featuring a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Tuesday, December 19: Chilika Lake
Head to Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, for a day of nature exploration. Take a boat ride in the morning to spot dolphins and migratory birds. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant near the lake. In the afternoon, visit the Kalijai Temple, located on an island in the lake, and learn about its religious significance.
Chilika Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 600 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Seafood Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Explore the traditional heritage village of Raghurajpur, known for its unique Pattachitra art. In the morning, witness the artists at work and learn about their techniques. Take a Pattachitra painting workshop in the afternoon to create your own masterpiece. In the evening, savor local delicacies at a village restaurant.
Raghurajpur Village Tour: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Pattachitra Painting Workshop: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Village Restaurant Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Thursday, December 21: Return to Bhubaneswar
On your last day, return to Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife. Explore the Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves in the afternoon, ancient rock-cut structures with intricate carvings. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Odia dinner at a local restaurant.
Nandankanan Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves: Estimated cost - INR 25 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Odia Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Maa Tarini Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Jugaad Cafe & Rooftop Lounge, a cozy restaurant serving a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Savour a delightful dinner at Dalma Garden Restaurant, known for its authentic Odia cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, explore the tribal villages in the interiors of Orissa, such as the Dongria Kondh Tribe in the Niyamgiri Hills. These tribes have rich cultural traditions and it is fascinating to witness their way of life. Additionally, visit the Satakosia Tiger Reserve, a lesser-known wildlife sanctuary, for a chance to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.