Puri + Bhubaneswar Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, August 24: Arrival in Bhubaneswar

Start your trip by landing in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. In the morning, visit the majestic Lingaraj Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in the city. Admire the intricate carvings and architectural marvels. In the afternoon, explore the Odisha State Museum, showcasing a vast collection of archaeological artifacts and art pieces. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful Bindu Sagar Lake, surrounded by numerous temples.

• Lingaraj Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Odisha State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10-20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Bindu Sagar Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Kitchen Restaurant located near Lingaraj Temple. This cozy eatery offers delicious South Indian and North Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Dalma Restaurant located near the Odisha State Museum. They serve authentic Odia cuisine, including the famous Dalma dish. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For dinner, visit Truptee Restaurant situated near Bindu Sagar Lake. This restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes along with a beautiful view of the lake. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.

Friday, August 25: Explore Bhubaneswar

In the morning, visit the impressive Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, ancient Jain rock-cut caves with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Spend the afternoon at Nandankanan Zoological Park, home to a wide variety of animal species and a beautiful botanical garden. End the day with a visit to the bustling Ekamra Haat, a traditional crafts village offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Nandankanan Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 50-100 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Ekamra Haat: Estimated cost - Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, August 26: Journey to Puri

Leave Bhubaneswar for the coastal town of Puri, known for its pristine beaches and the famous Jagannath Temple. Start your morning with a visit to the Jagannath Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden sands of Puri Beach, enjoying the scenic beauty and indulging in water sports. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade and witness the enchanting sunset.

• Jagannath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Puri Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Puri is Mahesh Prasad, known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Wildgrass Restaurant, which offers a range of vegetarian and seafood options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Chung Wah, a Chinese restaurant known for its authentic flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, August 27: Day at Chilika Lake

Embark on a day trip to Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon and a haven for migratory birds. Explore the lake on a boat ride and witness the diverse avian species. Visit the famous Kalijai Temple located on an island in the lake. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants overlooking the tranquil waters. Spend the evening leisurely exploring the nearby fishing villages.

• Boat ride on Chilika Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Kalijai Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, August 28: Return to Bhubaneswar

Head back to Bhubaneswar in the morning and explore the beautiful Kalinga Nagar area. Visit the Nandankanan Biological Park, home to rare white tigers and other exotic animals. In the afternoon, discover the tribal heritage of Odisha at the Tribal Museum. End your trip with shopping for handicrafts and textiles at the bustling Market Building.

• Nandankanan Biological Park: Estimated cost - INR 50-100 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Tribal Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10-20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Market Building: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Puri, don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite architecture. Explore the nearby Raghurajpur Heritage Village, renowned for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and Gotipua dance performances. Engage in a hands-on workshop to learn the art of Pattachitra painting from local artisans. Additionally, visit the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, a bird lover's paradise, to witness the vibrant avian life and serene natural beauty of the region.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.