Morning:
Jagannath Temple:
Start your day early by visiting the Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Puri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. Make sure to participate in the morning rituals to soak in the divine energy of the place.
Tip: The temple is quite busy, so try to arrive early to avoid long queues. Visitors must follow the dress code and security protocols.
Loknath Temple:
A short walk from Jagannath Temple, visit Loknath Temple, a serene and historic shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is set amidst a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a moment of quiet reflection.
Lunch:
Bhojanalay / Local Dhabas:
After your temple visit, have lunch at one of the local Bhojanalays or eateries that serve traditional Odisha thali. The thali usually includes rice, dal, vegetables, curry, and sweets like Rasgulla and Chhena Poda.
Afternoon:
Puri Beach:
Head to Puri Beach for some relaxation. The beach offers a wide expanse of golden sand and the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal. You can take a dip, enjoy the view, or just unwind on the shore.
You can also take a short boat ride for some coastal views.
If you're interested, try surfing or renting a beach chair and enjoy a cold drink while soaking up the sun.
Sea Beach Market:
Take a stroll along the Sea Beach Market. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs such as conch shells, jewelry, handicrafts, and wooden carvings.
Tip: Bargaining is common in local markets.
Evening:
Chilika Lake (Sunset Visit - Optional):
If time permits and you're up for a short evening trip (around 1.5 hours), visit Chilika Lake—Asia's largest coastal lagoon. It's a great place to witness stunning sunsets and you may even see dolphins during a boat ride on the lake.
Alternative: If you’re not up for a drive, enjoy the sunset at Puri Beach itself. The golden hour by the beach is picturesque.
Dinner:
The Stokers Restaurant:
Head to a local restaurant like Stokers Restaurant, known for its multi-cuisine options and seafood. Puri is famous for its fresh seafood, so make sure to try dishes like Prawn Malai Curry or Fish Fry.