Temple Trail by Car: Exploring Bhubaneswar and Puri’s Spiritual Circuit
Temple Trail by Car: Exploring Bhubaneswar and Puri’s Spiritual Circuit
Blog Article
Introduction: A Sacred Sojourn Through Odisha’s Temple Heartland
Odisha is often overshadowed in the mainstream travel discourse, but for seekers of spiritual depth, ancient architecture, and unfiltered cultural experiences, it holds an unmatched charm. At the heart of this experience lies a sacred triangle—Bhubaneswar, the “City of Temples”, and Puri, the seat of Lord Jagannath. While many opt for package tours, there’s something deeply rewarding about crafting your own temple trail by car. The freedom to stop, absorb, and explore at your own pace transforms this journey into a soulful road trip.
If you’re planning a Bhubaneswar to Puri car drive or looking into bike rental in BBSR to weave through smaller lanes and temple alleys, this blog lays out everything you need to know for a memorable temple trail.
Why a Road Trip Works Best for the Temple Trail
The distance between Bhubaneswar and Puri is just around 60 km—a short but spiritually rich stretch dotted with some of the most important Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist sites in Eastern India. Having your own vehicle—either a rental car or bike from BBSR—gives you the flexibility to explore lesser-known temples, soak in village scenes, and even enjoy spontaneous detours like Pipili or Dhauli.
This freedom is something no pre-packaged tour can offer.
The Ideal Starting Point: Bhubaneswar – The City of a Thousand Temples
Before heading towards Puri, start your trail in Bhubaneswar. It’s not just a pitstop; it's the spiritual and historical nucleus of Odisha.
1. Lingaraj Temple
One of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneswar, Lingaraj Temple is a living monument of Kalinga architecture. Though non-Hindus aren’t allowed inside, the exterior view is awe-inspiring and a great place to start your spiritual journey.
Tip: Park your Bhubaneswar to Puri car in the nearby lots and walk through the temple bazaar for a traditional breakfast of Bara and Ghuguni.
2. Mukteshwar and Rajarani Temples
Within a few kilometers lie Mukteshwar Temple—often called the “Gem of Odisha” for its ornate torana (gateway)—and Rajarani Temple, which is not an active place of worship but a beautiful example of red and yellow sandstone artistry.
3. Brahmeswar and Parasurameswar Temples
These smaller but intricate temples are great if you want to see finer carvings with fewer crowds. You'll often find priests here more open to storytelling if you ask respectfully.
4. Buddhist Sites Near Bhubaneswar: Dhauli and Shanti Stupa
Just 8 km outside Bhubaneswar, on the way to Puri, lies Dhauli Giri, the site where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism. The white Peace Pagoda, constructed by Japanese Buddhists, sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the Daya River.
Tip: If you’re riding via bike rental in BBSR, the uphill ride to Dhauli is both thrilling and scenic.
The Scenic Drive from Bhubaneswar to Puri
The NH316 highway is smooth, well-maintained, and lined with lush paddy fields and coconut palms. Here's how to make the most of this hour-long drive:
Optional Stops En Route:
Pipili: Known for its colorful appliqué handicrafts. Worth a quick detour for souvenir shopping.
Raghurajpur Heritage Village: A short detour from the highway, this village is home to Pattachitra artists. Witnessing their craft firsthand is a rare experience.
Tip: Choose a self drive Bhubaneswar to Puri car to explore these offbeat spots with ease.
Reaching Puri – Where Divinity Meets the Sea
Puri is not just another temple town; it’s a spiritual destination steeped in myth, pilgrimage, and rituals that stretch back thousands of years.
1. Jagannath Temple
This is the crown jewel of Odisha's spiritual circuit. The temple complex is enormous and houses many smaller shrines. Non-Hindus can’t enter, but they can get a view from the Raghunandan Library rooftop nearby.
Note: Cameras and leather items are strictly prohibited. Dress conservatively.
2. Gundicha Temple
This is the destination of the famous Rath Yatra. Located just 3 km from Jagannath Temple, it is quieter and serene, especially outside the yatra season.
3. Loknath Temple
A less touristy but equally sacred Shiva temple where the idol is submerged under water throughout the year.
Beyond Temples: Coastal and Cultural Puri
While the spiritual circuit is your main draw, don’t miss Puri’s vibrant coastal charm:
Puri Beach: Walk barefoot on the golden sands, sip coconut water, or enjoy a camel ride.
Chilika Lake (Satapada): Around 50 km from Puri, this is a serene detour if you have a few more hours. Spot Irrawaddy dolphins and enjoy a peaceful boat ride.
Tips for Renting a Vehicle: Car or Bike?
Depending on your travel style, you can opt for a car or a two-wheeler:
Car Rentals (Bhubaneswar to Puri car):
Ideal for families or elderly travelers
Offers air-conditioned comfort and luggage space
Available at Bhubaneswar airport and railway station
Opt for self-drive to maintain flexibility
Bike Rental in BBSR:
Great for solo travelers or couples
Easy to navigate narrow village lanes and temple by-lanes
Budget-friendly
Remember to carry a helmet and valid copyright
Tip: Always inspect the vehicle before renting and click pictures to avoid disputes later.
Suggested One-Day Itinerary: Spiritual Drive from Bhubaneswar to Puri
Morning:
Start early from Bhubaneswar
Visit Lingaraj, Mukteshwar, Rajarani
Have a temple-style breakfast
Drive to Dhauli and spend 30-45 mins
Midday:
Head out towards Puri via NH316
Quick stop at Pipili or Raghurajpur
Reach Puri by afternoon
Lunch at a local Odia eatery (try the temple-style Mahaprasad)
Afternoon to Evening:
Visit Jagannath Temple
Explore Gundicha Temple
Sunset at Puri Beach
Optionally drive back or stay overnight
Where to Stay
Bhubaneswar: Swosti Premium, Ginger, Trident
Puri: Mayfair Heritage, Sterling Resort, or simple dharamshalas near the temple
If you’ve chosen a Bhubaneswar to Puri car, check if your hotel offers safe parking—especially in crowded areas near temples.
Final Thoughts: A Journey for the Soul
The Bhubaneswar-Puri temple trail isn’t just about ticking off places on a list. It’s about discovering a slower, deeper way of travel. The road, the rituals, the regional cuisine, and the stories you’ll hear from temple priests and village artisans—all of it leaves a lasting imprint.
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