5 day itinerary for Jagannath Puri

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Exploration

• Start your day by arriving in Jagannath Puri and checking into your family-friendly accommodation.
• After settling in, head to the famous Puri Beach, known for its golden sands and beautiful sunsets.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, build sandcastles with the kids, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
• Don't miss the opportunity to try some delicious local street food like Puri Bhaji and Pani Puri from the beachside stalls.

Day 2: Jagannath Temple and Cultural Exploration

• Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India.
• Take a guided tour to learn about the temple's history, architecture, and religious significance.
• Witness the mesmerizing rituals and ceremonies performed by the temple priests.
• Explore the nearby Anand Bazaar, a bustling market where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
• In the evening, attend the famous Rath Yatra festival if it coincides with your visit. It is a grand procession where the deities are taken out in chariots.

Day 3: Chilika Lake Excursion

• Embark on a day trip to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India and a haven for birdwatchers.
• Take a boat ride through the tranquil waters of the lake, spotting migratory birds like flamingos, pelicans, and herons.
• Visit the Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, a designated wildlife sanctuary within Chilika Lake, to get up close to the avian species.
• Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the floating restaurants on the lake.
• If time permits, visit the nearby Kalijai Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kalijai.

Day 4: Konark Sun Temple and Pipli Village

• Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun Temple, located about 35 kilometers from Puri.
• Marvel at the architectural brilliance of this 13th-century temple, shaped like a colossal chariot with intricately carved stone wheels.
• Explore the Konark Museum nearby to learn more about the temple's history and see the preserved sculptures.
• On your way back to Puri, make a stop at Pipli Village, famous for its appliqué work. Shop for colorful handicrafts, wall hangings, and traditional textiles.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

• Spend your last day in Puri relaxing and enjoying the amenities of your accommodation.
• Take a dip in the hotel pool or head to the nearby beach for some more family fun.
• Indulge in a traditional Odia lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Dalma, Machha Besara, and Chhena Poda.
• Before departing, visit the local markets to buy souvenirs and mementos to remember your wonderful time in Jagannath Puri.
• Bid farewell to this enchanting city and head back home with beautiful memories of your family-friendly vacation.