Family Friendly Itinerary for Puri

Friday December 29: Explore Puri Beach

Start your trip by visiting the famous Puri Beach. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, enjoying the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. In the afternoon, engage in exciting water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing sunset while enjoying a picnic on the beach.

• Puri Beach: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: Half day

Saturday December 30: Visit Jagannath Temple and Gundicha Temple

Begin your day by immersing yourself in spirituality at Jagannath Temple. Explore its intricate architecture and witness the daily rituals and prayers. In the afternoon, visit Gundicha Temple, known as the Garden House of Lord Jagannath. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and admire the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple.

• Jagannath Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Gundicha Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday December 31: Excursion to Konark Sun Temple

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this 13th-century temple dedicated to the sun god. Explore the intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various mythological stories. Take your time to appreciate the grandeur of this historical masterpiece.

• Konark Sun Temple: Cost estimate: Entrance fee - INR 40 per person, Time spent: Half day

Restaurants

• The Beach Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Beach Cafe, known for its stunning ocean views and mouthwatering breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• The Olive Garden: For lunch, head to The Olive Garden, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of Indian and international cuisine. Enjoy their famous biryani or indulge in a flavorful pasta dish. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• The Puri Seafood Restaurant: End your day with a delightful dinner at The Puri Seafood Restaurant, where you can feast on a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes. Don't miss their signature prawn curry or tandoori fish. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.

Monday January 1: Enjoy Chilika Lake and Nalabana Bird Sanctuary

Spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. Take a boat ride to Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers. Witness a wide variety of migratory birds, including flamingos, herons, and pelicans, in their natural habitat. Enjoy the serene surroundings and capture some memorable photographs.

• Chilika Lake: Cost estimate: Boat ride - INR 500 per person, Time spent: Full day
• Nalabana Bird Sanctuary: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday January 2: Explore Raghurajpur Heritage Village

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Odisha by visiting Raghurajpur Heritage Village. Explore the traditional art and craft forms of the region, including Pattachitra paintings and stone carvings. Interact with local artisans and witness their craftsmanship. Take home some unique souvenirs as a memento of your trip.

• Raghurajpur Heritage Village: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: Half day

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Raghurajpur Heritage Village is Puri Dosa House, known for its delicious assortment of dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For a hearty lunch, head to the nearby Nimapara Bhoji, a local favorite for traditional Odia cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit the elegant Zaffran Restaurant located in Puri city. Indulge in their authentic North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking to explore off the beaten path attractions in Puri, consider visiting the Sudarshan Crafts Museum. It offers insights into the traditional art of making Pattachitra paintings and showcases a vast collection of exquisite artwork. Another hidden gem is the Balighai Beach, located a few kilometers away from Puri. It provides a tranquil and less crowded alternative to Puri Beach, making it perfect for a relaxed family outing.

For a unique local experience, try the mouthwatering seafood delicacies at the local restaurants near Puri Beach. Indulge in freshly caught prawns, fish curries, and crab preparations, which are sure to delight your taste buds.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Puri, you can visit this link.