Published: 12 March 2026

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

Bhubaneswar is the perfect starting point for a temple and heritage tour across Odisha. Picking up a car in the city gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace — from the ancient temples of the capital to coastal shrines like Tara Tarini Temple by car and the forested beauty of Simlipal National Park. A self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar is ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups looking for a flexible, safe, and comfortable road trip Odisha experience.

Tara Tarini Temple by car: route, distance and visit tips

Tara Tarini Temple, perched on the Kumari hills above the Rushikulya river, is one of the oldest Shakti Peethas in India. Visiting the temple by car from Bhubaneswar is straightforward and rewarding.

Distance and drive time

The drive from Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini is approximately 170 km and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Most travelers take NH16 for the bulk of the trip, then branch off on state highways toward the temple near Berhampur.

Road conditions and parking

Roads on NH16 are generally in good condition with multiple fuel and food stops. The final stretch to the temple is on narrower, hilly roads; park at the designated lot and walk or take the local shuttle if available. Expect steps and some uphill walking to reach the sanctum.

Local tips for visiting Tara Tarini

  • Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and clear views.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable footwear for steps and short hikes around the temple complex.
  • Respect local customs — dress modestly and follow temple rules.

Road trip Odisha: Sample 3-day itinerary from Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini and Simlipal

This suggested itinerary is designed for travelers who want a mix of temples, heritage, and wildlife while relying on a self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar for full flexibility.

  1. Day 1 — Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini (170 km / 4-5 hrs)
    • Morning: Pick up your car in Bhubaneswar and drive south on NH16.
    • Afternoon: Reach Tara Tarini, visit the temple and enjoy sunset views over the Rushikulya river.
    • Night: Stay in nearby Berhampur or a coastal resort.
  2. Day 2 — Berhampur to Simlipal region (drive to Jashipur, 250-270 km / 6-7 hrs)
    • Morning: Drive north toward Mayurbhanj district; longer driving day but scenic.
    • Evening: Reach Jashipur or Karanjia, relax and prepare for jungle activities next day.
  3. Day 3 — Simlipal National Park safaris and return
    • Morning: Enter Simlipal for wildlife viewing and waterfalls (permits required).
    • Afternoon: Begin return to Bhubaneswar or continue to other Odisha destinations.

This loop can be stretched to 4-5 days if you want more time for tribal villages, beaches near Gopalpur, or heritage sites around Bhubaneswar.

Weekend getaway from Bhubaneswar — practical info, seasons, and road conditions

Planning a short break? A weekend trip from Bhubaneswar to Tara Tarini (with an optional overnight near the coast) is realistic and rejuvenating. For longer weekends, include Simlipal for a mix of nature and culture.

Best season to visit

The ideal season is October to March when Odisha enjoys cool, dry weather — perfect for temple visits and forest safaris. Monsoon (June to September) brings lush green landscapes but can make some forest roads slippery and certain areas inaccessible.

Road conditions and driving advice

  • NH16 (Bhubaneswar to southern Odisha) is mostly well-maintained and suitable for sedans and hatchbacks.
  • State highways and coastal roads near Tara Tarini can be narrow and windy; drive cautiously, especially after rain.
  • Approach Simlipal via Jashipur; the last stretches include uneven or single-lane roads. A car with good ground clearance is recommended for rough patches.
  • Avoid night driving on rural stretches; wildlife crossings and limited lighting increase risk.

Practical tips for a smooth self drive car rental in Bhubaneswar

Before you set off, a few practical steps make your journey more enjoyable and worry-free.

  • Book in advance: Popular weekends and festival times fill quickly — reserve early through trusted platforms like Drigo.
  • Check documents: Carry your driving license, ID, car rental agreement, and insurance papers.
  • Fuel planning: Fill up in major towns; some stretches between Berhampur and interior areas have limited stations.
  • Permits and safari bookings: For Simlipal National Park, check entry permits, jeep safari availability, and park timings ahead of time.
  • Packing essentials: Water, snacks, a first-aid kit, power bank, torch, and basic tools. In monsoon, pack rain gear and waterproof bags.

How to book and why choose Drigo for self-drive in Bhubaneswar

When planning a temple and heritage tour by car, trust matters. Drigo offers a transparent, well-maintained fleet and flexible pickup options from Bhubaneswar, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free road trip Odisha.

Why book with Drigo:

  • Easy online booking at drigo.in with clear pricing and vehicle choices.
  • Flexible pickup and drop-off in Bhubaneswar to fit your itinerary.
  • Reliable customer support and vehicle assistance for peace of mind on long drives.

Whether you want a compact hatchback for city-to-shrine trips or an SUV for rugged stretches near Simlipal, Drigo’s options make it simple to tailor the ride to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Tara Tarini Temple from Bhubaneswar and how long does it take by car?

Tara Tarini Temple is roughly 170 km from Bhubaneswar. Expect a drive time of about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Use NH16 for the fastest route, then follow state highways to the temple area.

Is a self drive road trip from Bhubaneswar to Simlipal feasible in a weekend?

Simlipal is approximately 250-270 km from Bhubaneswar with a drive time of about 6-7 hours. A weekend trip is possible but will be tight; we recommend extending to 3-4 days to enjoy safaris and local sites without rushing.

What are the road conditions and best season to travel for this temple and heritage tour by car?

Road conditions: NH16 is well-maintained, while state and forest roads can be narrow or uneven. Best season is October to March for comfortable weather. During monsoon, some routes and forest areas may be muddy or closed.

How do I book a reliable self-drive car in Bhubaneswar?

Book online with trusted providers. For a straightforward experience, check out Drigo and book at drigo.in. They offer transparent pricing, vehicle options, and Bhubaneswar pickup for your temple and heritage itinerary.

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