A Week of Family-Friendly Fun in Puri

Friday December 15: Arrival in Puri

Welcome to Puri! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, head to the beautiful Puri Beach for a relaxing stroll along the shoreline. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Jagannath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Puri Market, where you can shop for handicrafts, clothes, and local souvenirs.

• Puri Beach: Free, 2 hours
• Jagannath Temple: Free, 2 hours
• Puri Market: Budget depends on shopping, 2 hours

Saturday December 16: Chilika Lake

Embark on a day trip to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India. In the morning, take a boat ride to explore the lake and its surrounding islands. Enjoy bird watching and spot unique aquatic species. Afternoon, savor freshly caught seafood at one of the local restaurants. In the evening, witness a beautiful sunset over the serene lake.

• Chilika Lake Boat Ride: Budget depends on tour package, 6 hours
• Seafood Lunch: Budget depends on restaurant, 1 hour
• Sunset at Chilika Lake: Free, 1 hour

Sunday December 17: Puri Sea Beach and Rath Yatra Museum

Start your day by enjoying the golden sands and crystal-clear waters of Puri Sea Beach. In the morning, indulge in beach activities such as swimming or building sandcastles. Afterward, visit the Rath Yatra Museum, which showcases the vibrant history and culture of the famous Jagannath Rath Yatra festival. In the evening, relish some delicious street food along the beach.

• Puri Sea Beach: Free, 3 hours
• Rath Yatra Museum: INR 100 (approximately $1.50), 2 hours
• Street Food: Budget depends on preference, 1 hour

Monday December 18: Konark Sun Temple

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, explore the intricate stone carvings and marvel at the architectural brilliance of the temple. Afterward, visit the nearby Chandrabhaga Beach for some relaxation and beachside fun. In the evening, return to Puri and enjoy a traditional Odia dinner.

• Konark Sun Temple: INR 40 (approximately $0.50), 3 hours
• Chandrabhaga Beach: Free, 2 hours
• Odia Dinner: Budget depends on restaurant, 1 hour

Tuesday December 19: Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary

Embark on an exciting adventure to Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary. In the morning, take a boat ride through the Chilika Lake to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Afterward, visit some of the scenic islands in the sanctuary. In the afternoon, savor a scrumptious seafood lunch by the lake. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Satapada Jetty.

• Dolphin Boat Safari: Budget depends on tour package, 4 hours
• Island Visit: Free, 2 hours
• Seafood Lunch: Budget depends on restaurant, 1 hour
• Satapada Jetty: Free, 1 hour

Wednesday December 20: Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

Visit the historic Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, an ancient Jain rock-cut shrine. In the morning, explore the intricately carved caves and learn about their historical significance. Afterward, visit the Odisha State Museum to witness a vast collection of ancient art and artifacts. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of traditional Odissi dance.

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: INR 25 (approximately $0.35), 3 hours
• Odisha State Museum: INR 10 (approximately $0.14), 2 hours
• Odissi Dance Performance: INR 200-500 (approximately $2.80-$7), 2 hours

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Head to Konark Restaurant for a delicious breakfast. They offer a variety of Indian and continental dishes to start your day. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Lunch: For a satisfying lunch, visit Palm Beach Restaurant that serves a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. They have a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Dinner: Indulge in seafood delicacies at Wildgrass Restaurant for dinner. They offer a beautiful ambience and an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Thursday December 21: Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village

Visit the enchanting Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village, known for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and handicrafts. In the morning, explore the village and witness artisans at work. Learn the techniques of Pattachitra painting and try your hand at creating your masterpiece. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch at a local home. In the evening, head back to Puri and relax on the beach.

• Raghurajpur Heritage Crafts Village: Free, 4 hours
• Pattachitra Painting Workshop: INR 200-500 (approximately $2.80-$7), 2 hours
• Traditional Lunch: Budget depends on the home, 1 hour
• Beach Relaxation: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Puri, make sure to visit the Sakshigopal Temple, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Experience the blissful tranquility of Baliharachandi Temple, located on a serene beach. Enjoy a peaceful stroll at Loknath Temple and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Don't miss the early morning sunrise at Puri Beach to witness a breathtaking view. Finally, indulge in the local delicacy of Puri Temple Prasad, a flavorful offering from Jagannath Temple.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out KAYAK.