Introduction: Why a Weekend Getaway from Bhubaneswar to Puri is a Great Idea
There’s something uniquely refreshing about hopping into a car on a Friday evening, leaving the city lights of Bhubaneswar behind, and cruising toward the sun-drenched coast of Puri. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick break or a traveler seeking spiritual and scenic experiences, the Bhubaneswar to Puri stretch offers one of the most enriching weekend drives in Odisha.
Thanks to the growing convenience of Bhubaneswar to Puri car rentals, planning spontaneous getaways has never been easier. From heritage temples and golden beaches to serene villages and hidden lakes, the journey is as fulfilling as the destination. This guide gives you hand-crafted weekend itineraries designed to help you make the most of your two days—with flexibility, comfort, and discovery as your key companions.
Why Choose a Rental Car for Bhubaneswar to Puri Trips?
Before diving into itineraries, let’s talk logistics. Opting for a rental car gives you:
Freedom of schedule: No dependence on train or bus timings.
Scenic stops: Stop for fresh coconut water by the roadside, explore lesser-known temples, or enjoy a walk through a sleepy village—without worrying about public transport.
Comfort and privacy: Travel with your family, friends, or partner in your own space.
Extended reach: From coastal detours to Chilika Lake’s birding havens, a rental car lets you explore more than the main highway.
With many options for car rental in Puri and Bhubaneswar, from hatchbacks for budget travelers to SUVs for larger groups, planning becomes stress-free.
Route Overview: Bhubaneswar to Puri Road Map
Distance: Approx. 65–70 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on traffic and stops)
Best Route: NH316 via Pipili and Sakhigopal
The well-maintained road makes the journey smooth. But it’s not just a commute—it’s a chance to explore Odisha’s cultural and spiritual backbone.
Weekend Itinerary #1: The Classic Pilgrim and Beach Combo
Day 1: Bhubaneswar → Puri via Pipili and Sakhigopal
Morning:
Start early (around 7:30 AM) from Bhubaneswar in your rented car.
First stop at Pipili, famous for its vibrant appliqué handicrafts. Spend 45 minutes browsing or shopping for wall hangings, umbrellas, or bags.
Midday:
Head toward Sakhigopal Temple, just before Puri. The temple, often compared to Vrindavan’s shrines, is calm and less crowded.
Grab lunch at one of the highway dhabas or check in early at your Puri hotel.
Evening:
Head to Jagannath Temple. Even if you’re not religious, the aura is magnetic. Non-Hindus can explore from outside and enjoy local stories.
Wrap up with a walk on Puri Beach. Try local snacks like jhalmuri or fried fish from beachside vendors.
Day 2: Beach Vibes Cultural Soaks
Morning:
Watch the sunrise at Puri Beach—one of the most beautiful in eastern India.
After breakfast, drive 8 km to Raghurajpur Heritage Village, where every home is a mini art gallery showcasing Pattachitra and palm-leaf engravings. Interact with artists and pick up a few handmade souvenirs.
Afternoon:
Have lunch back in Puri, then drive to Loknath Temple or Swargadwar for spiritual exploration.
Visit Narendra Tank or go boating in Markandeswar Tank for a quiet wrap-up.
Evening:
Begin your drive back to Bhubaneswar by 5 PM, reaching home by 7:30 PM.
Weekend Itinerary #2: Serenity Nature Beyond the Crowd
This itinerary is perfect if you want to avoid crowds and immerse yourself in nature and lesser-known spiritual spots.
Day 1: Bhubaneswar → Balukhand Forest → Puri
Morning:
Depart Bhubaneswar by 8 AM.
En route, detour to Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, located between Puri and Konark. While spotting blackbucks is rare, the forest drive and beach trails are thrilling. You can park the car and walk toward quiet stretches of the beach.
Afternoon:
Reach Puri and check into a boutique resort or homestay on the outskirts.
Skip the main beach and head to Beleswar Beach—cleaner, quieter, and ideal for a lazy afternoon.
Evening:
Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach. Many beachside resorts offer candlelight setups with fresh catch of the day.
Day 2: Day Trip to Chilika Lake (Satapada)
Morning:
Drive 50 km south to Satapada, where the Chilika Lake meets the Bay of Bengal. Rent a boat to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
Visit the Sea Mouth, where the lake merges with the sea—breathtaking at high tide.
Afternoon:
Eat at a lakeside eatery. Fresh prawns, crabs, and local rice meals are specialties.
Return to Puri by late afternoon and freshen up.
Evening:
Start for Bhubaneswar around 5:30 PM. Optionally, stop at Pipili again for souvenirs on your return.
Weekend Itinerary #3: The Art, History, and Craft Loop
This is ideal for travelers who love history, art, and engaging with local traditions.
Day 1: Bhubaneswar → Dhauli → Pipili → Puri
Morning:
Begin with a visit to Dhauli Peace Pagoda on your way out of Bhubaneswar. Explore the rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka and panoramic views of the Daya River.
Proceed to Pipili for a short stop.
Afternoon:
Instead of heading straight to Puri, visit Raghurajpur, where artists still practice ancient techniques. Watch live painting, dance rehearsals (Gotipua), and palm-leaf manuscript etching.
Reach Puri in the evening and relax at your hotel.
Evening:
Explore the old streets near Gundicha Temple and have a traditional Mahaprasad meal from the Anand Bazaar within the temple complex.
Day 2: Konark Day Tour + Beach Time
Morning:
Drive 35 km to Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The chariot-like architecture and stone carvings are unmatched.
Visit the Konark Museum or the Interpretation Centre for deeper understanding.
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a beach shack at Chandrabhaga Beach—a serene and lesser-known spot near Konark.
Drive back to Puri via the scenic Marine Drive stretch, where forest meets ocean.
Evening:
Start your return to Bhubaneswar by 5:30–6 PM.
Tips for Renting a Car in Bhubaneswar or Puri
Book in advance during weekends and festive seasons.
Choose rentals with proper insurance coverage and road-side assistance.
Verify documents: Driving License, Aadhar/ID, and check the RC and fuel policy of the vehicle.
Opt for local agencies if you're looking for budget cars; choose premium platforms for newer vehicles and better support.
Pick a vehicle suited for your group size and comfort—especially if visiting rural or coastal stretches.
If you're ending your trip in Puri and returning to Bhubaneswar by train, some car rental in Puri services also offer one-way drop-off options.
Final Thoughts: The Road is More Than Just a Path
There’s a magic in road trips—more so when the roads take you from ancient cities to holy towns, from forests to beaches, from dance villages to dolphin bays. With a Bhubaneswar to Puri car, what you get is not just a means of transport, but a passport to discovery at your own pace.
So whether you're a solo traveler craving silence, a couple chasing sunrises, or a family introducing your kids to Odisha’s living heritage, these weekend itineraries offer something for everyone. Pick your path, pack your bags, rent your ride, and let the road from Bhubaneswar to Puri do the rest.
