Begin your journey in the capital city of Bhubaneswar, known for its ancient temples and rich culture. In the morning, visit the iconic Lingaraj Temple, a majestic architectural wonder dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Nandankanan Zoological Park, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk around Bindusagar Lake and witness the enchanting beauty of the illuminated temples.
Lingaraj Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Nandankanan Zoological Park: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Bindusagar Lake: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Café Kabala is a charming breakfast spot located in Bhubaneswar, known for their delicious and freshly-brewed coffee. They offer a range of breakfast options including sandwiches, omelettes, and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Truptee is a popular lunch destination in Bhubaneswar, serving authentic Odia cuisine. Their thalis, which include a variety of traditional dishes, are a must-try. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Swaraj Palace is an elegant dinner restaurant that specializes in seafood and Indian cuisine. With a cozy ambiance and attentive service, it is perfect for a relaxed evening meal. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Saturday, October 7: Puri
On the second day, head to the coastal town of Puri, famous for its pristine beaches and the sacred Jagannath Temple. Begin your morning with a refreshing walk along the golden sands of Puri Beach, admiring the sunrise. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Jagannath Temple and experience the divine aura. As the evening approaches, visit Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, and take a boat ride amidst a picturesque landscape and abundant wildlife.
Puri Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Jagannath Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Chilika Lake: Cost: INR 400 for boat ride, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Sea Palace, located near Puri Beach. They serve a variety of dishes including traditional Indian breakfast items like dosa and idli. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Enjoy a mouthwatering lunch at Chung Wah Restaurant, known for its Chinese and Indian fusion cuisine. They offer a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Wildgrass Restaurant located near Chilika Lake. They specialize in seafood dishes prepared with fresh catch from the lake. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Sunday, October 8: Konark
Travel to the town of Konark today, renowned for the famous Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your day by visiting the majestic Sun Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to the sun god Surya. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Chandrabhaga Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and golden sands. As the evening unfolds, witness the mesmerizing sunset against the backdrop of the temple.
Sun Temple: Cost: INR 40, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Chandrabhaga Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Tea Pot, a charming cafe known for its freshly brewed teas and mouthwatering homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to The Spice Garden, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Odia dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Saffron Grill, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the Sun Temple along with a delectable menu of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday, October 9: Simlipal National Park
Embark on a thrilling adventure to Simlipal National Park, one of the most biodiverse national parks in India. In the morning, explore the dense forests and spot various wildlife species including tigers, elephants, and deer. Opt for a safari to fully experience the natural beauty of the park. Spend the afternoon picnicking near the picturesque Joranda Waterfall and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Simlipal National Park: Cost: INR 1000 (approx.), Time spent: Full day
Joranda Waterfall: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 10: Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
Today, venture into the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, a paradise for bird lovers. Start your day by taking a boat ride through the sanctuary's vast wetlands and observing the migratory and resident bird species. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Kalijai Island and marvel at the panoramic views of Chilika Lake. Explore the nearby fishing villages to get a glimpse of the local lifestyle and culture.
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: INR 300 for boat ride, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Kalijai Island: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday, October 11: Bhitarkanika National Park
Head towards the Bhitarkanika National Park, a unique mangrove ecosystem and a haven for crocodiles and migratory birds. In the morning, take a thrilling boat ride through the dense mangrove forests and witness the reptilian giants in their natural habitat. Spend the afternoon exploring the ruins of the ancient Ratnagiri Buddhist Monastery and Museum. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Brahmani River.
Bhitarkanika National Park: Cost: INR 1000 (approx.), Time spent: Full day
Ratnagiri Buddhist Monastery and Museum: Cost: INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café de Odisha. This charming café offers a variety of traditional Odia dishes along with international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Jagannath Restaurant which serves authentic Odia delicacies. Indulge in dishes like dalma, pakhala, and machha besara. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit The Olive Garden. This restaurant offers a wide range of international cuisines including Italian, Chinese, and Indian. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, October 12: Gopalpur
On your last day, visit the tranquil beach town of Gopalpur and unwind amidst its serene surroundings. In the morning, relax on the pristine beach and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby fishing village and interacting with the friendly locals. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while enjoying the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore.
Gopalpur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Fishing Village: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the tranquil Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. Located near Bhubaneswar, this sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and deer. Another offbeat destination is the Satkosia Tiger Reserve, where you can indulge in adventurous activities like river rafting and jungle safaris. Both these places offer a unique and immersive experience in the lap of nature.