The Golden Triangle of Odisha: Temples, Sun Chariots & Serene Lakes
Complete Journey Overview
The Golden Triangle of Odisha: Temples, Sun Chariots & Serene Lakes
The Golden Triangle of Odisha: Temples, Sun Chariots & Serene Lakes
Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences
Day 1 - Arrival in Bhubaneswar & The Temple City's Treasures
Arrival in Bhubaneswar & Car Hire
Arrive at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) or Bhubaneswar Railway Station. Pick up your pre-booked private car with a driver for the entire 4-day trip for maximum flexibility.
Check-in to your Hotel
Transfer to your hotel, check in, and freshen up before starting your exploration of the 'Temple City of India'.
Lingaraj Temple
Visit the magnificent Lingaraj Temple, a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire its 55-meter high spire and intricate carvings. Walk around the sacred Bindusagar Lake adjacent to the temple.
Authentic Odia Lunch
Savor a traditional Odia thali for lunch. Don't miss trying local specialties like Dalma (lentils with vegetables), Santula (mixed vegetable curry), and various pithas (rice cakes).
Mukteshwar & Rajarani Temples
Explore the 'Gem of Odisha Architecture', the Mukteshwar Temple, known for its exquisite stone archway (Torana). Nearby, visit the Rajarani Temple, famous for its beautiful carvings of female figures and lack of a presiding deity.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Discover the ancient rock-cut caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri. These were once dwellings for Jain monks and offer panoramic views of the city from the top. The carvings depict court scenes, royal processions, and mythological stories.
Dinner in Bhubaneswar
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. You can explore modern cafes or stick to traditional Odia cuisine.
Day 2 - Peace Pagodas, Local Crafts & Journey to the Coast
Dhauli Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda)
After breakfast and check-out, drive to Dhauli Giri. This is where the Kalinga War was fought, transforming Emperor Ashoka. Visit the dazzling white Peace Pagoda built by the Japan Buddha Sangha and see the ancient rock edicts of Ashoka.
Pipli - The Appliqué Village
On the way to Puri, stop at the small town of Pipli, famous for its vibrant appliqué work (Chandua). Walk through the main market street to see artisans creating colorful lampshades, umbrellas, bags, and wall hangings.
Drive to Puri
Continue your scenic drive to the coastal town of Puri, one of the four sacred Char Dhams for Hindus.
Check-in to Beachside Hotel in Puri
Check into your hotel in Puri. A hotel along Marine Drive Road is recommended for stunning sea views and easy beach access.
Seafood Lunch by the Beach
After settling in, head to a beachside shack or restaurant for a delicious lunch. Puri is famous for its fresh seafood, especially prawns and fish curry.
Relax at Puri Beach (Golden Beach)
Spend the evening relaxing at the famous Golden Beach of Puri. Enjoy the sunset, watch the local fishermen, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. You can also see unique sand art created by local artists.
Dinner and Local Sweets
Explore the local market near the Jagannath Temple and have dinner. End your day by trying the famous Odia sweet, 'Chhena Poda' (a baked cheese dessert).
Day 3 - Puri's Divine Aura & Konark's Sun Temple Majesty
Jagannath Temple Darshan
Visit the world-famous Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dhams. Experience the spiritual energy and witness the unique rituals. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu.
Experience the Mahaprasad
Try to have the 'Mahaprasad' from the temple's Ananda Bazar, the world's largest open-air kitchen. It's a unique culinary and spiritual experience. The food is cooked in earthen pots and offered to the deities first.
Drive to Konark
After lunch, take a scenic drive along the coast to Konark. The Marine Drive road from Puri to Konark is beautiful, with the sea on one side and casuarina forests on the other.
Konark Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Explore the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, an architectural marvel built in the 13th century. The temple is designed as a colossal chariot for the Sun God, Surya, with 24 intricately carved stone wheels and drawn by seven horses.
Chandrabhaga Beach
Visit the serene and clean Chandrabhaga Beach, located just 3 km from the Sun Temple. It's known for its beautiful sunrise and tranquil atmosphere, and is considered a holy site.
Return to Puri
Drive back to your hotel in Puri for the night.
Farewell Dinner in Puri
Have a farewell dinner at one of the highly-rated restaurants on Marine Drive, enjoying the sea breeze.
Day 4 - Dolphins of Chilika Lake & Departure
Drive to Satapada, Chilika Lake
After an early breakfast and check-out, drive to Satapada, a popular entry point to Chilika Lake. The lake is a biodiversity hotspot and home to the Irrawaddy dolphins.
Boating in Chilika Lake
Hire a boat from the OTDC boat jetty for a tour of the lake. The trip usually includes a visit to the Sea Mouth (where the lake meets the Bay of Bengal) and the Dolphin Point for a chance to spot the playful Irrawaddy dolphins.
Lunch at Chilika
Enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Satapada, specializing in fresh catch from the lake, especially crab and prawns.
Drive to Bhubaneswar for Departure
After lunch, begin your journey back to Bhubaneswar to catch your evening flight or train.
Departure from Bhubaneswar
Depart from Bhubaneswar with wonderful memories of Odisha's rich heritage, spiritual aura, and natural beauty.
