Published: 15 March 2026

Why choose self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar for a road trip Odisha

A family road trip is best enjoyed at your own pace, with stops for chai, photos and spontaneous detours. Choosing self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar gives you flexibility, privacy and the comfort of traveling on your schedule. Start your journey from Bhubaneswar and discover the beaches of Puri, the serene Dhauli Peace Pagoda and the cultural village of Raghurajpur — all perfect for a memorable family adventure.

Perfect weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar: 3-day family itinerary

This easy 3-day itinerary is ideal for families and works as a relaxed weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar if you take Friday evening to start. Distances and drive times are included so you can plan rest stops and meals.

Day 1: Bhubaneswar to Dhauli Peace Pagoda and onward to Puri

Start early from Bhubaneswar after picking up your rental vehicle. If you booked through Drigo, pickup in Bhubaneswar is quick and paper-light.

  • Distance: Bhubaneswar to Dhauli Peace Pagoda ~12 km
  • Drive time: ~25–35 minutes (city traffic dependent)
  • Visit the serene Dhauli Peace Pagoda to witness the Ashokan rock edict and sunset views over the Daya River.

After Dhauli, continue to Puri.

  • Distance: Dhauli to Puri ~50 km
  • Drive time: ~1.25–1.75 hours
  • Check into a family-friendly hotel and enjoy an evening stroll on the Puri beach.

Day 2: Puri by car — Jagannath Temple, beach time and local food

Puri is best explored by car, giving you the freedom to avoid crowded buses and keep luggage secure in the boot while you walk.

  • Morning darshan at Jagannath Temple (check temple timings and dress code).
  • Relax on Puri beach, try local seafood or simple chappan bhog and enjoy an ocean sunset.
  • If your family loves crafts, plan a late afternoon visit to nearby Raghurajpur.

Day 3: Raghurajpur heritage village and return to Bhubaneswar

Raghurajpur is a living art village famed for Pattachitra painting and traditional crafts. It’s an inspiring stop for kids and adults alike.

  • Distance: Puri to Raghurajpur ~18 km
  • Drive time: ~30–45 minutes on local roads

Spend a couple of hours meeting artists, watching demonstrations and picking souvenirs. Head back to Bhubaneswar in the afternoon:

  • Distance: Raghurajpur to Bhubaneswar ~60 km
  • Drive time: ~1.5–2 hours

Practical info: distances, drive times, best season and road conditions

Planning ensures a stress-free family road trip. Here are practical details to keep in mind.

  • Key distances & drive times: Bhubaneswar → Puri ~60 km (~1.5–2 hrs), Bhubaneswar → Dhauli ~12 km (~25–35 mins), Puri → Raghurajpur ~18 km (~30–45 mins).
  • Best season: October to February (cool, dry weather). Summers (March–May) can be hot; monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rains and occasional road issues.
  • Road conditions: Major stretches, including Bhubaneswar–Puri (NH roads), are generally in good condition and well-maintained. Coastal and village roads near Raghurajpur can be narrower and may have potholes after heavy rain, so drive cautiously.
  • Parking & accessibility: Puri has paid parking near the beach and temple; plan extra time for parking during festivals.

Tips for a smooth family road trip Odisha with a self-drive car

Families travel best when small details are handled in advance. Here are quick, practical tips.

  1. Book a comfortable vehicle with AC and enough boot space — Drigo offers a range of options for family trips and simple online booking on drigo.in.
  2. Carry a first-aid kit, basic medicines, bottled water and snacks for kids.
  3. Start early to avoid midday heat and to find easy parking at popular spots.
  4. Keep cash for small shops, tolls and parking; digital payments are widely accepted but some stalls prefer cash.
  5. Check temple timings and footwear rules for Jagannath Temple; carry modest clothing for the shrine.
  6. Use offline maps or download a local GPS pack — mobile signals are strong on highways but weaker in some village pockets.

Why book through Drigo for your Puri by car family trip

Drigo is a user-friendly platform offering reliable self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar with flexible pickup and drop options. A few reasons families prefer Drigo:

  • Easy online booking and clear pricing on drigo.in.
  • Well-maintained cars with safety features and child-friendly options.
  • Support for local routes including Puri, Dhauli and Raghurajpur — perfect for a cultural road trip Odisha.

Booking in advance, especially during festival seasons and winter weekends, ensures you get the vehicle that suits your family size and comfort needs.

Final tips for making the most of your Puri by car adventure

  • Plan short stops every 1.5–2 hours to stretch legs and keep kids comfortable.
  • Try local cuisine but be cautious with spicy foods for young children; opt for well-reviewed eateries.
  • Respect local customs in temples and villages — a little cultural curiosity goes a long way.
  • Capture memories: sunrise at Puri beach, the quiet at Dhauli, artisan workshops in Raghurajpur.

With a reliable car from Drigo and a relaxed plan, your family can enjoy the best of coastal Odisha at your own pace. Visit drigo.in to check availability and book your vehicle for this unforgettable road trip.

FAQ

Is self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar easy for families?

Yes. Self-drive rentals in Bhubaneswar are family-friendly, offering flexibility, privacy and easier sightseeing. Choose a comfortable car with sufficient boot space for luggage and child seats if needed.

How long does it take to drive to Puri from Bhubaneswar?

The drive is approximately 60 km and typically takes 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic. Starting early can reduce travel time and improve parking options in Puri.

What is the best time to visit Puri and Raghurajpur by car?

October to February is the best season — pleasant weather, clear skies and festival events. Avoid heavy monsoon months (June–September) when some rural roads can be affected by rain.

How do I book a reliable car for a weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar?

Use a trusted platform like Drigo to compare vehicles, read terms and book online. Visit drigo.in to reserve your car, check insurance and pickup options for a smooth start to your weekend getaway.

Browse self drive cars from ₹999/day →