Puri (2N)→Bhubaneswar (1N)→Bhitarkanika National Park (1N)→Bhubaneswar (2N)
Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is a culturally rich state in eastern India, renowned for its magnificent temples, pristine beaches, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural landscapes. This religious and heritage tour takes travelers on a spiritual and historical journey through Bhubaneswar, Puri, Konark, and Bhitarkanika, offering a perfect blend of devotion, architecture, and nature. Starting from Bhubaneswar, the “Temple City of India,” visitors explore famous shrines like Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple, along with the ancient 64-Yogini Temple. The journey continues to Puri, home to the revered Jagannath Temple, one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Nearby, the tranquil Chilika Lake at Satpada offers a chance to witness the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. The sacred Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, mesmerizes travelers with its intricate stone carvings and historical significance. This tour also covers Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri, significant Buddhist sites forming Odisha’s “Diamond Triangle,” reflecting the state’s deep Buddhist heritage. Adventure seekers will love Bhitarkanika National Park, a biodiversity hotspot famous for its crocodiles, mangrove forests, and bird sanctuary. The journey concludes with local sightseeing and shopping in Bhubaneswar, ensuring a well-rounded experience of Odisha’s spiritual, historical, and natural beauty. This tour is perfect for devotees, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers, offering a soul-enriching escape into Odisha’s divine and cultural grandeur.
Pickup from Bhubaneswar airport. Head towards Puri.
On the way, visit Dhauli (the Peace Pagoda), 108 Shivling Temple, Lingaraj Temple, and Chausath (64) Yogini Temple.
Once you reach Puri, check into the hotel in the evening and relax at Puri Beach.
Stay overnight at Puri.
After breakfast, visit Sri Jagannath Temple (Note: Non-Hindus are not allowed), Gundicha Temple, Mausima Temple, and Bedi Hanuman Temple. Then, depart for Satapada, Chilka. On the way, stop at Alarnath Temple. Once you reach Chilika Lake, take a boat ride (at your own cost) to see the Irrawaddy Dolphins in their natural habitat and visit the point where the lake meets the sea (Hradaya-SagarSangam). Enjoy your time at Chilika Lake, India's largest inland lake covering over 1,100 square kilometers. In the evening, return to Puri. Relax and enjoy the golden beach, and spend some free time shopping at the local market in Puri. Overnight stay in Puri.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Konark via the marine drive. Visit Chandrabhaga Beach and Ramchandi Temple. Next, explore the famous Sun Temple, also known as the Black Pagoda, a 12th-century temple with beautiful stone carvings. In the evening, enjoy the light and sound show in Konark (at your own expense). Later, drive to Bhubaneswar and check into the hotel. Stay overnight in Bhubaneswar.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Lalitgiri/Udayagiri and Ratnagiri, the old Buddhist temple. Together, Lalitgiri and Udayagiri, the three places form the Golden Triangle of Odisha. Also visit Langudi Hill, famous for having 34 rock-carved Buddhist shrines. After the tour, drive to Bhitarkanika. Stay overnight at Bhitarkanika.
After breakfast, explore Bhitarkanika. Enjoy the mangrove forest and crocodiles by boat ride.
Take a boat ride to the Bird Sanctuary and go on a hike to the old King of Kanika’s hunting tower (the hike will take about 3-4 hours). Then, visit the Crocodile Museum and Interpretation Center.
Afterward, drive to Bhubaneswar and check in to your hotel. Stay overnight in Bhubaneswar.
After breakfast, explore Bhubaneswar and visit Rajarani Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Parshurameshwar Temple, Khandagiri, Udaygiri Jain Caves, Nandankanan Zoo (known for its wide variety of wildlife and famous for the white tiger and lion safari, but closed on Mondays), and the Tribal Museum (also closed on Mondays). Afterward, enjoy some free time for shopping.
Overnight stay in Bhubaneswar.
After having breakfast, check out from the hotel. If time allows, visit Ekamrahaat. Then, transfer to the airport or railway station to catch your flight or train for your onward journey, taking with you a bag full of memories.
Inclusions of Tour Package:
- Puri: Sri Jagannath Temple | Gundicha Temple | Mausima Temple | Bedi Hanuman Temple | Alarnath Temple | Chilika lake | Chandrabhaga beach | Ramchandi temple.
- Bhubaneswar: Dhauli (the peace pagoda) | Shivling temple | Lingaraj Temple | Chausath (64) Yogini temple | Langudi Hill | Rajarani temple | Mukteshwar temple | Parshurameshwaram Temple | Khandagiri | Udaygiri Jain caves | Nandankanan Zoo | Tribal museum| Ekamra Haat (If time permits).
- Bhitarkanika: Crocodile museum | Interpretation center | Sun Temple.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels with two people sharing a room as per the plan for each hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel. One lunch and one dinner at the Bhitarkanika hotel.
- Transfers and Sightseeing: All transfers, sightseeing, and trips will be in an air-conditioned vehicle as mentioned in the plan.
- Taxes and Allowances: All parking charges, toll taxes, and driver's allowances are included.
- Vehicles: For 2 to 3 people: AC Swift Dezire. | For 4 to 6 people: AC Innova. | For 7 to 13 people: 13-seater AC Tempo Traveler.
Exclusions of Tour Package:
- Transportation Costs: Air/train tickets | Boating charges at Chilika Lake & Bhitarkanika.
- Additional Services: Insurance | Guide Services | Entrance fee to monuments.
- Personal Expenses: Laundry | Phone calls | Room service | Alcoholic drinks | Mini bar charges | Tips | Luggage handling (portage) | Camera fees.
- Meals and Services: Any meals and services not specifically mentioned in the “tour cost includes”.
- Accommodation: In case the listed hotels are unavailable, we will arrange for similar standard accommodation.
FAQs related to Bhubaneswar, Bhitarkanika and Puri Trip
Ans-1. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Bhitarkanika National Park is open from August to May, but winter is ideal for spotting wildlife. Avoid the monsoon season as heavy rains may affect travel plans. Puri’s Rath Yatra (June-July) is a famous festival but attracts large crowds. Summers (April-June) can be very hot, especially in coastal and temple areas. Plan accordingly for a comfortable trip.
Ans-2. Bhubaneswar is well-connected by air, rail, and road with major Indian cities. Puri is about 60 km from Bhubaneswar and can be reached by train or road in 1.5 hours. Bhitarkanika is about 160 km from Bhubaneswar, requiring a road trip followed by a boat ride from Khola or Gupti entry points. Private cabs, local buses, and trains are available for easy intercity travel. Our tour package includes airport/railway station pick-up and drop-off.
Ans-3. The package includes comfortable stays in well-rated hotels in Puri and Bhubaneswar. In Bhitarkanika, accommodation is arranged in eco-resorts or forest lodges near the national park. All stays are on a twin-sharing basis with modern amenities. Deluxe and luxury options are available upon request. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
Ans-4. The tour includes famous temples like Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj Temple, and Konark Sun Temple. Nature lovers will enjoy Chilika Lake for dolphin spotting and Bhitarkanika’s mangrove forests. Cultural highlights include the Buddhist sites of Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, and Ratnagiri. Beach lovers can relax at Puri Beach, Chandrabhaga Beach, and Marine Drive. Museums, caves, and wildlife safaris complete the itinerary.
Ans-5. Yes, non-Hindus are not allowed inside the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Other temples and monuments, including Konark Sun Temple, Lingaraj Temple, and Buddhist sites, are open to all visitors. Some attractions may have entry fees, which are usually not included in the package. Photography inside certain temples may be restricted. Visitors should follow dress codes and temple rules.
Ans-6. At Chilika Lake, you can enjoy a boat ride to spot Irrawaddy Dolphins and visit the lake-sea confluence point (Hradaya-Sagar Sangam). Bhitarkanika offers boat safaris to explore the mangrove forests, spot saltwater crocodiles, and visit the Bird Sanctuary. A guided trek to the King of Kanika’s Palace and a visit to the Crocodile Museum add to the experience. Wildlife photography and birdwatching are also popular activities.
Ans-7. Yes, the itinerary is designed for travelers of all ages, including senior citizens and children. However, the trek in Bhitarkanika and the boat rides require moderate physical activity. Wheelchair accessibility is limited in some locations. Customization options, including slower-paced travel and comfortable accommodations, can be arranged on request. Families with young children should carry essentials like snacks, medicines, and baby care items.
Ans-8. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available at hotels and restaurants. Puri and Bhubaneswar are known for delicious Odia cuisine, including Dalma, Pakhala, and seafood dishes. Satvik food (without onion and garlic) is available near Jagannath Temple. In Bhitarkanika, local dishes with fresh seafood are popular. Travelers with dietary preferences should inform us in advance for suitable meal arrangements.
Ans-9. Pack light cotton clothes for summer and warm clothing for winter visits. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for temple visits and treks. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and insect repellent for outdoor activities. A raincoat or umbrella is useful during monsoons. Don’t forget your camera, power bank, and ID proofs. If visiting temples, modest attire is recommended.
Ans-10. You can book the tour package online through our website or by contacting our travel experts. A partial advance payment is required for confirmation. Cancellation policies vary based on hotel and transport bookings, with full refunds available if canceled within the free cancellation period. Last-minute cancellations may have charges. Travel insurance is recommended for unexpected changes.