Exploring Bhuvneshwar, Puri, and Konark: A 5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary
Monday, October 23: Arrival in Bhubaneswar
Start your trip by arriving at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the intricately carved Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, explore the Odisha State Museum to learn about the art, history, and culture of the region. In the evening, take a relaxing walk at the Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens.
A popular breakfast spot is Cafe Coffee Day, located near Lingaraj Temple. They offer a variety of coffees, teas, and breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Dalma Restaurant which serves authentic Odia cuisine. They are known for their delicious vegetarian thalis and the average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to The Zaffran, a fine dining restaurant known for its North Indian and Mughlai dishes. The elegant ambiance and delicious food make it a great choice. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Explore Puri
Embark on a day trip to the coastal town of Puri. In the morning, visit the sacred Jagannath Temple, which is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. Later, head to the Puri Beach and enjoy the serene coastline. In the evening, explore the bustling Puri Market and taste some local street food.
Visit the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the morning. Admire the architectural beauty and learn about the history of this ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God. Afterward, explore the nearby Chandrabhaga Beach and relax amidst the scenic surroundings. In the evening, you can witness the spellbinding Odissi dance performance at the Konark Natya Mandap.
Konark Sun Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 30-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Take a relaxed day in Bhubaneswar to visit some family-friendly attractions. Start your morning with a visit to the Nandankanan Zoological Park, where you can see various wildlife species, including the rare white tigers. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, ancient rock-cut caves with intriguing sculptures and carvings. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride at the tranquil Bindu Sarovar Lake.
A popular breakfast spot in Bhubaneswar is Kesar, known for its delicious South Indian dishes and refreshing filter coffee. Enjoy a hearty breakfast here for around Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Dalma Restaurant, a local favorite for authentic Odia cuisine. Indulge in flavorful dalma (lentil curry) and bhendi bhaja (fried okra) for an average cost of Rs. 300 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Fiesta Restaurant. This multi-cuisine restaurant offers a range of dishes from Indian to Chinese and Continental. Treat yourself to a delectable meal here with an average cost of Rs. 500 per person.
Friday, October 27: Departure
Spend your last morning in Bhubaneswar visiting the Rajarani Temple, known for its exquisite architectural style. Afterward, explore the Ekamra Van botanical garden, which houses a variety of medicinal plants and trees. In the afternoon, you can indulge in some souvenir shopping at the Ekamra Haat, a traditional craft and handloom fair. Bid farewell to the beautiful land of Bhuvneshwar, Puri, and Konark as you depart for your next destination.
While exploring Bhuvneshwar, Puri, and Konark, make sure to venture off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems. For a unique experience, visit the Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village, where you can witness traditional art forms and interact with local artisans. Another must-visit place is the Chilika Lake, known for its picturesque beauty and a perfect spot for bird watching. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the mouth-watering local cuisine, including the famous seafood dishes such as Prawn Malai Curry and Chingudi Jhola.