Kolkata to Puri: A Coastal Adventure

Saturday, September 9: Arrive in Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata, the cultural capital of India! Begin your trip by exploring the iconic Howrah Bridge in the morning. Marvel at its architectural beauty and panoramic views of the Hooghly River. In the afternoon, visit Victoria Memorial, a grand marble building that houses a museum showcasing Kolkata's history. As the evening sets in, take a serene boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the enchanting Aarti ceremony at Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

• Howrah Bridge: No cost, 1-2 hours
• Victoria Memorial: INR 30 (approx. $0.40), 2-3 hours
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: No cost, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Pujo Bhog: Enjoy a traditional Bengali breakfast at Pujo Bhog, located near the Howrah Bridge. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like luchi, alur dom, and sandesh. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Machhli Baba: For a delicious seafood lunch, head to Machhli Baba, a popular restaurant overlooking the Hooghly River. Try their signature fish curry and savor the flavors of coastal cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Oh! Calcutta: Experience the flavors of Kolkata with a dinner at Oh! Calcutta. This renowned restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Bengali dishes like hilsa paturi and kosha mangsho. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday, September 10: Explore Bhubaneswar

Travel to Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, in the morning. Start your day by visiting the stunning Lingaraja Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in the city. Experience the tranquility of the Bindu Sagar Lake nearby. In the afternoon, explore the Odisha State Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll in Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, known for its lush greenery and serene ambiance.

• Lingaraja Temple: No cost, 2-3 hours
• Bindu Sagar Lake: No cost, 1-2 hours
• Odisha State Museum: INR 10 (approx. $0.13), 2-3 hours
• Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens: INR 20 (approx. $0.27), 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Keshari, known for its wide range of traditional Odia breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to The Zaika Restaurant, offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options from North Indian and Mughlai cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Dalma Restaurant, famous for its authentic Odia cuisine and seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Monday, September 11: Discover Puri

Arrive in the enchanting coastal town of Puri. Start your morning by visiting the famous Jagannath Temple, an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath. Marvel at its architectural grandeur and witness the daily rituals. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Puri Beach, known for its golden sands and crashing waves. Enjoy water sports or simply relax by the shore. As the evening sets in, don't miss the mesmerizing sunset views from the Light House overlooking the beach.

• Jagannath Temple: No cost, 2-3 hours
• Puri Beach: No cost, 2-3 hours
• Light House: INR 10 (approx. $0.13), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Puri, don't miss visiting the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located around 35 kilometers from the town. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its intricate carvings. Another hidden gem is Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, where you can take a boat ride and spot migratory birds. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Swargadwar Market and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies.