Bhubaneswar to Puri by Self Drive Car
The Bhubaneswar–Puri road trip is one of Odisha's most rewarding self drive routes. At just 60 km on NH 316, it takes under 90 minutes — yet unlocks the beach town of Puri, the UNESCO-heritage Konark Sun Temple, and the serene Chilika Lake, all within a single day. Here is everything you need for a smooth drive.
Route Overview
- Distance: 60 km (Bhubaneswar to Puri via NH 316)
- Drive time: 75–90 minutes
- Road condition: Excellent 4-lane highway throughout
- Best time to leave: 7:30–8:00 AM to beat the beach crowd
Must-Stop Attractions Along the Way
1. Dhauli Shanti Stupa (8 km from Bhubaneswar)
A 5-minute detour on your way out of Bhubaneswar. The Peace Pagoda built by Japanese Buddhists overlooks the Daya River — the site of the Kalinga War that transformed Emperor Ashoka. Parking is easy and entry is free. Allow 20–25 minutes.
2. Pipli Appliqué Village (28 km)
Pipli is Odisha's famous craft village, lining both sides of the highway with colourful patchwork lamps, bags, and wall hangings. Stop here for 15 minutes on your way to Puri and pick up authentic Odisha handicrafts directly from artisans — far cheaper than any souvenir shop.
3. Puri Beach and Jagannath Temple (60 km)
Puri is the centrepiece of the trip. The Jagannath Temple is one of India's four sacred dhams — non-Hindus cannot enter but can view it from the Raghunandan Library rooftop nearby. Puri's Golden Beach stretches 8 km; Swargadwar and Marine Drive are the cleaner sections. Parking near the beach is available for ₹20–₹50.
Adding the Konark Extension (Golden Triangle)
From Puri, Konark is just 35 km along the Marine Drive — a scenic coastal road running parallel to the Bay of Bengal. The Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century chariot-shaped UNESCO monument, is worth at least 90 minutes. Combine all three stops for the classic Golden Triangle: Bhubaneswar → Puri → Konark → Bhubaneswar (total ~130 km loop, 7–8 hours).
Fuel Cost Estimate
- Bhubaneswar–Puri–Bhubaneswar: ~120 km round trip · ₹250–₹320 in a Creta diesel
- Full Golden Triangle loop (130 km): ~₹280–₹350 in a Creta diesel
- Petrol Swift: ~₹380–₹430 for the loop (lower mileage vs diesel)
Best Car for This Trip
The Hyundai Creta is the top pick for the Bhubaneswar–Puri circuit. Its comfortable cabin handles 4–5 passengers, boot space is generous for beach gear, and the diesel variant sips fuel efficiently on the NH 316 highway. If you want the open-air beach experience, the Mahindra Thar is perfect for Puri's marine drive — though fuel cost is higher.
Both cars are available for self drive rental in Bhubaneswar on Drigo. Book the Creta from ₹1,999/day or the Thar from ₹3,999/day.
Practical Tips
- Fill up fuel in Bhubaneswar — petrol pumps are available but the highway variety can be crowded on weekends.
- Park near the Puri lighthouse area for easy beach access.
- Konark temple entry: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreign nationals. Keep cash ready.
- Weekend traffic into Puri picks up after 10 AM — an early start makes a significant difference.
- The return drive is quicker on weekday evenings. Avoid Friday/Saturday evenings when Puri sees high tourist inflow.
Ready to book a self drive car for your Puri road trip? Browse Drigo's fleet in Bhubaneswar — instant digital KYC, no driver needed, and airport pickup available at Biju Patnaik Airport.