3 Days in Puri for a Fun Family Trip

Start your Puri adventure with its most iconic sights—the sacred Jagannath Temple, the lively beach, and a taste of Odisha's famous seafood.

Activities

Visit Jagannath Temple

Begin your day at the heart of Puri's spiritual life—the 12th-century Jagannath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, this temple is one of India's Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The towering spire, intricate carvings, and the rhythmic chants create a powerful atmosphere. Non-Hindus can't enter the inner sanctum, but the temple complex and surrounding market buzz with energy.

Grand Road, PuriMorning (5:00 AM - 1:00 PM), arrive early to avoid crowdsFree (donations optional)

Tips:

• Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered)
• Leave phones/cameras at your hotel—they're not allowed inside

Stroll and Swim at Puri Beach

Just 2 km from the temple, Puri Beach offers golden sands and crashing Bay of Bengal waves. It's lively with locals flying kites, pony rides for kids, and fishermen hauling in their catch. The northern end near Mayfair Hotel is cleaner for swimming. Grab a coconut from beachside vendors and watch the colorful boats bobbing on the horizon.

Puri Beach RoadLate morning to early afternoon (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) before it gets too hotFree (small fees for chairs/pony rides)

Tips:

• Bargain hard for souvenirs
• Wear swimwear under clothes for quick dips

Lunch at Wildgrass Restaurant

A 5-minute cab ride from the beach, this beloved spot serves Odia thalis with fresh seafood. Try their signature Chingudi Jhola (prawns in mustard gravy) or Maccha Besara (fish in tangy mustard sauce). The bamboo decor and sea breeze make it a perfect post-beach refuel stop.

VIP Road, near Puri-Konark Marine Drive1:30 PM - 2:30 PM (peak lunch hours)₹400-800 per person

Tips:

• Ask for 'pakhala' (fermented rice) if you're feeling adventurous
• Their mango lassi is a hit with kids

Must Try Foods

Explore more of Puri's cultural and natural highlights, from ancient temples to vibrant markets and serene lakes.

Activities

Visit Konark Sun Temple

Head to the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple, about 35 km from Puri. This 13th-century marvel is shaped like a giant chariot with intricate carvings. The temple is dedicated to the sun god Surya, and the detailed sculptures tell stories of ancient Odisha. The nearby museum adds more context to the site.

Konark, about 35 km from PuriMorning (8 AM - 10 AM departure to avoid midday heat)INR 40 per person (foreigners INR 600), plus cab fare (~INR 1500-2000 round trip)

Tips:

• Hire a guide for better insights into the carvings
• Carry water and wear a hat—it gets hot

Chill at Balighai Beach

A quieter alternative to Puri Beach, Balighai is perfect for families. The casuarina groves provide shade, and the shallow waters are safe for kids. Look for the nearby Olive Ridley turtle conservation center—it’s small but informative.

Balighai Beach, 8 km from Puri townLate afternoon (3 PM - 5 PM)Free (cab fare ~INR 500 round trip)

Tips:

• Try fresh coconut water from local vendors
• Weekdays are less crowded

Evening at Raghurajpur Artist Village

This heritage crafts village is where Pattachitra (traditional scroll painting) artists work. Watch artisans paint, buy souvenirs directly from them, and see the colorful murals on village homes. It’s a short drive from Puri and feels like stepping into a living art gallery.

Raghurajpur, 14 km from PuriEvening (5:30 PM - 7 PM, before sunset)Free entry (art purchases vary; small paintings start at ~INR 300)

Tips:

• Bargain gently for artwork
• Ask artists about their techniques—they’re often happy to explain

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day exploring Puri's lesser-known gems, from serene lakes to local markets and unique culinary delights.

Activities

Morning at Chilika Lake

Head to Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, about an hour from Puri. Take a boat ride to spot dolphins, migratory birds, and the picturesque Kalijai Temple on an island. The early morning light makes it magical.

Chilika Lake, near Barkul6:30 AM - 10:30 AM (best for birdwatching and calm waters)₹500-1000 per person (includes boat ride)

Tips:

• Carry binoculars for birdwatching
• Bargain for boat prices if not booked in advance

Explore Local Markets

Wander through Puri's bustling markets like Grand Road and Station Bazaar. Pick up handcrafted souvenirs, seashell items, and traditional Pattachitra paintings. The vibe is lively, and you'll see locals going about their daily routines.

Grand Road and Station Bazaar, Puri11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (before the afternoon heat peaks)Varies (budget ₹500-2000 for souvenirs)

Tips:

• Try haggling—it’s expected!
• Look for the tiny stalls selling fresh coconut water

Sunset at Narendra Tank

End the day at Narendra Tank, a serene temple tank near Jagannath Temple. The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) here is peaceful, with lamps floating on the water and locals chanting. It’s a quieter alternative to the main temple crowds.

Narendra Tank, near Jagannath Temple5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (timings vary with sunset)Free (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
• Stay for the full aarti—it’s worth it

Must Try Foods