Discover the Best Scenic Routes in Odisha with a Self Drive Car Rental in Bhubaneswar
Odisha is a treasure trove of wildlife, coastal hills, historic sites and peaceful pilgrimage spots. The best way to explore is by car—flexible, comfortable and perfect for spontaneous detours. If you're planning a road trip Odisha with Bhubaneswar as your starting point, this guide covers three scenic routes to the must-visit locations: Simlipal National Park, Dhauli Peace Pagoda, and Tara Tarini Temple. We also include a practical weekend itinerary, road conditions, distances, drive times and tips for booking a reliable self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar.
Why Choose a Self Drive Car Rental in Bhubaneswar for Your Road Trip Odisha
Picking up a car in Bhubaneswar lets you start early, avoid crowded tours, and explore offbeat spots at your own pace. With a self-drive, you can stop for photography, sample roadside cuisine, and adjust plans without depending on a fixed schedule.
For a smooth experience, consider trusted local platforms like Drigo. Drigo offers transparent pricing, varied vehicle options, and local knowledge—book easily at drigo.in to get started.
Bhubaneswar to Simlipal National Park by Car
Route overview and practical info
Simlipal National Park by car is one of the most rewarding drives if you love forests and wildlife. Approximate distance: 270 km. Typical drive time: 6–7 hours depending on stops and traffic. The route largely follows NH16 and SH roads through scenic rural landscapes.
Best season and road conditions
The best time to visit Simlipal is October to March when the weather is cool and wildlife sightings increase. Roads are generally in good condition on the main highways, but expect some uneven stretches once you approach Mayurbhanj and the park buffer zones. During monsoon (June–September) some forest roads can be slippery or closed.
Suggested itinerary for a 2-3 day trip
- Day 1: Bhubaneswar to Baripada (overnight stop), visit local markets and prepare park permits.
- Day 2: Early morning entry into Simlipal for game drives and waterfall visits (e.g., Barehipani).
- Day 3: Return drive to Bhubaneswar with optional stop at a tribal village for cultural insight.
Bhubaneswar to Dhauli Peace Pagoda: A Short, Scenic Drive
Route details and timings
For a quick spiritual and scenic break, drive to Dhauli Peace Pagoda. Distance from Bhubaneswar: 10–12 km. Drive time: 20–30 minutes. This makes it ideal for half-day trips or as the first stop on a longer southward journey.
What to expect and best time to visit
Dhauli sits on the banks of the Daya River and is famed for its peace pagoda and the Ashokan rock edicts. Best time to visit is October to March for pleasant weather and clear views. Roads are well-maintained and parking near the pagoda is easy for self-drivers.
Tips for visiting Dhauli
- Arrive early to avoid mid-day crowds and heat.
- Combine Dhauli with a visit to the nearby Atri hot springs or local museums in Bhubaneswar.
- Carry light snacks and water; religious sites have limited food stalls.
Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini Temple — A Coastal Hill Drive
Drive distance, time and route
The drive from Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini Temple is an immersive coastal-hill experience. Distance: approximately 160 km. Drive time: around 4–5 hours via NH16 and local state highways toward Ganjam district. The final approach includes winding roads up the hill near the temple complex.
Best season and road conditions
Visit Tara Tarini between October and February for cool, clear weather and good visibility of the coast. The highways are mostly smooth; however, the last few kilometers to the temple can be steep and narrow—drive cautiously, especially in low-light or rainy conditions.
What to do at Tara Tarini
- Visit the twin shrines and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Time your visit around the evening aarti for a memorable spiritual experience.
- Combine the trip with a stop at nearby beaches like Gopalpur-on-Sea for a coastal detour.
Perfect Weekend Getaway from Bhubaneswar — 2-Day Itinerary
If you're searching for a weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar, here are two practical itineraries depending on how far you want to drive.
Option A: Short Weekend (Dhauli + Local Temples)
- Day 1: Morning drive to Dhauli, sightseeing, then head back to Bhubaneswar for local temple visits and evening markets.
- Day 2: Explore nearby pottery villages or eco-parks, return car by evening.
Option B: Extended Weekend (Tara Tarini or Simlipal)
- Day 1: Early pickup in Bhubaneswar and drive to Tara Tarini (or Baripada for Simlipal). Enjoy the sunset at the destination.
- Day 2: Full day exploring the temple/park. Night drive back or return next morning.
Practical Tips for Self Drive Car Rental in Bhubaneswar and Road Trip Odisha
Before you hit the road, a few practical pointers will make your trip safer and more enjoyable.
- Book early: Reserve your vehicle online—platforms like Drigo list cars, prices and pickup locations so you can compare and book at drigo.in.
- Choose the right car: For Simlipal or rougher roads, pick an SUV or car with higher ground clearance. For coastal and city drives, a compact sedan is comfortable and fuel-efficient.
- Check fuel and tolls: Note fuel stops along NH16 and carry a toll payment method (digital wallets or FASTag) for smoother travel.
- Carry permits and IDs: Keep your driving license, registration papers and any park permits handy—Simlipal requires permit formalities for entry.
- Pacing: Plan realistic drive times—avoid night driving on unfamiliar rural roads.
- Packing: Include a basic first-aid kit, torch, power bank, water, and light rain gear in monsoon months.
Road conditions in Odisha vary from smooth national highways to narrower state roads and village tracks. Always check local weather and road updates before departure, and allow extra time for scenic stops.
Why Book with Drigo for Your Odisha Road Trip
Local insights, transparent pricing and flexible pickup options make Drigo a smart choice for self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar. Whether you're planning a quick spiritual visit to Dhauli, an adventurous wildlife trip to Simlipal, or a coastal-hill drive to Tara Tarini, Drigo's fleet and easy booking at drigo.in help you travel with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a self-drive car rental safe for a road trip Odisha from Bhubaneswar?
Yes—choosing a reputable rental and planning your route reduces risks. Drive during daylight, maintain safe speeds, and pick vehicles suited to road conditions. Platforms like Drigo verify vehicle condition and documentation for added assurance.
How long does it take to drive to Simlipal National Park from Bhubaneswar?
Expect around 6–7 hours for the roughly 270 km drive, depending on traffic and stops. Plan an overnight stay at Baripada or nearby lodges before entering the park early in the morning.
What is the best time for a weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar?
The ideal season is October to March—cooler temperatures, clearer skies and better wildlife sightings. Avoid monsoon months for forest trips and be cautious on coastal roads during stormy weather.
Can I book a car last minute for a road trip from Bhubaneswar?
Last-minute bookings are possible but availability may be limited, especially on peak weekends. To secure the best vehicle and rates, pre-book a few days ahead at drigo.in.