Odisha is a land where ancient history meets pristine nature, where centuries-old temples rise above bustling markets, and where golden beaches give way to lush forests and waterfalls. If there’s one city that serves as the perfect launchpad to explore all this, it’s Bhubaneswar—the capital city and a gateway to Odisha’s wonders.
While there are buses, trains, and even guided tours available, nothing quite matches the comfort, flexibility, and personal experience of exploring with a car rental in Bhubaneswar. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, renting a car gives you complete control over your journey—and that’s what makes the difference.
Why Start Your Odisha Journey from Bhubaneswar?
Bhubaneswar isn’t just the state capital—it’s the cultural, historical, and logistical heart of Odisha. The city is well connected by air, rail, and road, making it the ideal base for travelers.
From here, you can head in any direction:
East to Puri’s beaches and the sacred Jagannath Temple
South to Chilika Lake’s serene waters and migratory birds
North to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konark Sun Temple
West to tribal regions and wildlife sanctuaries
Most destinations are within a few hours’ drive, which makes car rentals not just a luxury but a practical choice.
The Freedom Factor – Go Beyond the Itinerary
One of the biggest advantages of renting a car in Bhubaneswar is freedom. Public transport runs on fixed schedules and routes, which means you’re often bound by someone else’s timetable. But with your own rental car, you can:
Start your day when you want—whether it’s catching the sunrise at Dhauli Hills or sleeping in after a late-night cultural program.
Take detours—maybe you see a roadside handicraft stall, or a hidden tea shop by a lake; you can stop anytime.
Explore lesser-known gems—small villages, scenic viewpoints, or unexplored beaches that aren’t on standard tourist maps.
For example, while driving from Bhubaneswar to Puri, most people stick to the main highway. But with your own vehicle, you can take the scenic marine drive via Konark, with multiple stopovers for photography and local snacks.
Comfort for All – From Solo Trips to Group Journeys
Odisha is best enjoyed when you’re comfortable and relaxed. Renting a car ensures you avoid the cramped spaces of buses or the hassle of booking multiple train tickets.
If you’re traveling with family or friends, 7 seater car rental in Bhubaneswar is a perfect choice. These spacious vehicles let everyone travel together without splitting into multiple taxis. Plus, you have ample luggage space for shopping hauls—from Sambalpuri sarees to Pattachitra paintings.
For couples or solo travelers, smaller hatchbacks and sedans offer great fuel efficiency while still providing a cozy ride.
Cost-Effectiveness – More Value Than You Think
Some travelers assume that renting a car is expensive compared to public transport. But when you factor in the following, the math changes:
Shared Costs: If you’re traveling as a group in a rented 7-seater, the cost per person is often less than train or bus tickets for the same journey.
Time Savings: Time is money, and with your own car, you cut down on waiting times, detours, and stopovers that public transport forces on you.
No Extra Transfers: When traveling to offbeat destinations, public transport often leaves you stranded far from your actual spot, requiring additional auto-rickshaw or taxi rides.
In short, a rental car often turns out to be more economical—especially when you consider convenience and flexibility.
The Perfect Vehicle for Every Journey
The beauty of car rental in Bhubaneswar is the variety. You can choose a vehicle that suits your specific trip:
Hatchback: Best for short city trips and solo travel.
Sedan: Comfortable for long drives, ideal for couples or small families.
SUV: Perfect for hilly terrains like Daringbadi or Simlipal National Park.
7-Seater MPV: Great for family vacations or group tours, providing extra legroom and luggage capacity.
A 7 seater car rental in Bhubaneswar is especially useful during wedding season, festivals, or large group trips to places like Puri Rath Yatra.
Top Odisha Destinations Best Explored by Car
Here’s how a rental car transforms your travel experience to Odisha’s most famous spots:
Puri – The Spiritual Capital
Distance: ~65 km from Bhubaneswar
With your own car, you can leave early to avoid temple queues, then head to Puri Beach or the nearby artisan village of Raghurajpur.
Konark – The Sun Temple Marvel
Distance: ~70 km from Bhubaneswar
Driving along the Puri-Konark Marine Drive is an experience in itself—lush greenery on one side, the Bay of Bengal on the other.
Chilika Lake – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Distance: ~60 km (Satapada) or ~100 km (Barkul)
A car gives you the flexibility to visit during early morning hours when dolphins are most active.
Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha
Distance: ~250 km from Bhubaneswar
Public transport options are limited here, making a self-drive or chauffeur-driven rental the best choice.
Simlipal National Park
Distance: ~220 km from Bhubaneswar
Wildlife lovers will appreciate the ability to carry photography equipment and stop at villages en route.
Local Flavors and Hidden Stops
One of the underrated perks of renting a car is food exploration. Odisha is famous for its unique cuisine—dalma, chhena poda, machha besara, and countless street food delicacies. When you have your own vehicle, you can stop at roadside dhabas or explore hidden cafes that locals swear by.
Imagine driving towards Chilika and stopping for a freshly fried crab dish at a small eatery by the water—something you’d likely miss if you were on a fixed bus route.
How to Make the Most of Your Bhubaneswar Car Rental
Book in Advance – Especially during festivals like Rath Yatra, vehicles get booked months ahead.
Choose the Right Size – Match your group size to your car choice; don’t compromise on comfort.
Check Insurance and Permits – Make sure your rental covers basic insurance and interstate permits if needed.
Inspect Before Driving – Always take photos of the car before your trip to avoid disputes later.
Plan Your Route – Even with GPS, Odisha has areas with low connectivity, so carry offline maps.
Why 7-Seater Rentals Are Growing in Popularity
More travelers are now opting for 7 seater car rental in Bhubaneswar because it’s the sweet spot between space, cost, and convenience. It’s perfect for:
Family Functions: Carry gifts, luggage, and relatives in one go.
Corporate Trips: Colleagues can travel together, making it easier to coordinate schedules.
Festival Visits: Rath Yatra, Konark Dance Festival, or tribal fairs—everyone can travel together without worrying about finding separate transport.
Sustainable Travel Advantage
Believe it or not, group travel in a rented 7-seater is also more eco-friendly than taking multiple smaller vehicles. You cut down on fuel usage per person and reduce traffic congestion in tourist areas.
Safety and Security Benefits
Having your own rental car gives you better control over hygiene, safety, and personal security—especially important in today’s travel climate. You know exactly who’s in the vehicle, you control sanitization, and you can avoid crowded public spaces.
Final Thoughts – The Road is Yours
Odisha is a state that rewards curiosity. From temple towns and tribal markets to beaches and biosphere reserves, every corner holds a story. And the best way to hear them all is to set your own pace, choose your own path, and explore on your terms.
A car rental in Bhubaneswar—whether a compact sedan for two or a spacious 7 seater car rental in Bhubaneswar for the whole gang—gives you the keys to that freedom. You’re not just booking a vehicle; you’re unlocking experiences, memories, and adventures that go far beyond the itinerary.
