Bhubaneswar, fondly called the “Temple City of India,” is more than just a destination; it's a gateway to an unforgettable road trip experience across Odisha. Imagine hopping off your flight, picking up a car rental in Bhubaneswar airport, and setting off on a self driven adventure that takes you from sacred temples to sun-kissed beaches—all in a single itinerary. Whether you’re chasing history, nature, or coastal charm, Odisha offers a variety of scenic routes ideal for road-tripping enthusiasts.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through some of the best road trip routes from Bhubaneswar, offer tips for choosing the right rental vehicle, and spotlight hidden gems along the way. So buckle up—your Odisha road trip starts here.
Why Choose a Self Drive Journey from Bhubaneswar?
With well-maintained roads, moderate traffic (especially outside city limits), and an abundance of attractions within a 200-km radius, Bhubaneswar is the perfect starting point for a driving holiday.
Here’s why renting a vehicle makes sense:
Freedom to Explore: No fixed schedules or tour bus restrictions.
Access to Hidden Gems: Many lesser-known attractions are tucked away in remote corners—best accessed by car or bike.
Cost-Effective Travel: With a one-time rental fee and shared fuel costs, group travel becomes affordable.
If you're flying into the city, car rental in Bhubaneswar airport is the most convenient option to get started right away. Prefer two wheels over four? Bike rental in BBSR is a popular choice among solo travelers and backpackers for short city excursions and countryside rides.
Route 1: Bhubaneswar to Puri – A Spiritual and Coastal Getaway
Distance: 65 km
Time: Approx. 1.5 hours
The Route:
Head southwest via NH316, a smooth, double-lane highway lined with palm trees and open fields. This road leads straight to Puri, one of the Char Dhams and Odisha’s most revered coastal towns.
Must-Visit Stops:
Dhauli Shanti Stupa: Located just 8 km from Bhubaneswar, this Buddhist peace pagoda is believed to be the site of the Kalinga War. The panoramic views are worth the pit stop.
Pipili Village: Famous for vibrant applique handicrafts—ideal for souvenir shopping.
Raghurajpur Heritage Village: An artisan village where every house is a canvas; known for Pattachitra paintings.
What to Do in Puri:
Seek blessings at the Jagannath Temple
Walk barefoot on the Golden Beach
Enjoy fresh seafood at the beach shacks
Ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway, this route balances culture, art, and beach bliss.
Route 2: Bhubaneswar to Konark via Puri – The Golden Triangle Circuit
Distance: 100 km (loop)
Time: Approx. 3-4 hours driving time
The Route:
From Bhubaneswar, take the same NH316 to Puri, and then continue along the Marine Drive road to Konark. The coastal road from Puri to Konark is especially scenic with occasional glimpses of the sea and Casuarina groves.
Highlights:
Chandrabhaga Beach: A peaceful alternative to Puri’s busy shore; ideal for a sunrise stop.
Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel resembling a chariot drawn by stone horses.
Ramchandi Beach: Serene and less crowded, perfect for a quiet moment with nature.
This triangular circuit is the most popular and picturesque road trip from Bhubaneswar—don’t forget your camera!
Route 3: Bhubaneswar to Chilika Lake – For Birding and Boating
Distance: 110 km (to Satapada via NH16)
Time: Approx. 2.5-3 hours
The Route:
Take NH16 south and then turn towards Satapada, located on the eastern edge of Chilika Lake.
What Makes It Special:
Bird Watching: Visit between November and February to see migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans.
Dolphin Spotting: Take a boat ride in Satapada to catch a glimpse of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
Mangalajodi Wetlands: A paradise for bird photographers and nature lovers.
A rental car gives you the flexibility to stop at multiple points along the lake, explore lesser-known villages, and even opt for an overnight stay at eco-resorts.
Route 4: Bhubaneswar to Gopalpur-on-Sea – Hidden Beach Retreat
Distance: 170 km
Time: Approx. 4-5 hours
The Route:
Drive along NH16 past Khurda, Chilika, and Berhampur to reach the tranquil shores of Gopalpur-on-Sea.
Road Trip Perks:
The highway is smooth, scenic, and lined with lush vegetation.
Make a quick detour to Taptapani (hot sulfur springs) for a relaxing soak.
Stop at Berhampur for street food and silk sarees.
At Gopalpur, enjoy an old-world beach vibe far from the crowds of Puri or Konark. A great choice for a laid-back weekend.
Route 5: Bhubaneswar to Similipal National Park – Forests and Waterfalls
Distance: 200 km
Time: Approx. 6 hours
The Route:
Head north via NH16 to Baripada and then into the interiors of Mayurbhanj district.
Attractions:
Barehipani and Joranda Falls: Majestic waterfalls set deep within the forest.
Tiger and Elephant Safari: With some luck, you might spot big cats and herds of elephants.
Nature Trails: Ideal for trekking and birding.
This route is best explored in a rental SUV, especially during the dry months (October to June). Avoid monsoons as parts of the park may be inaccessible.
Tips for Choosing the Right Rental Vehicle
Whether you're booking a car rental in Bhubaneswar airport or looking into bike rental in BBSR, here’s what to consider:
For Car Rentals:
Compact Sedans or Hatchbacks: Great for city travel and short distances like Puri or Konark.
SUVs or MUVs: Ideal for family trips or long-distance drives like Similipal or Gopalpur.
Automatic vs. Manual: Pick what you’re most comfortable driving on Indian roads.
For Bike Rentals:
Scooters or 100-125cc Bikes: Best for solo travelers or couples doing short loops.
Cruiser Bikes (e.g., Royal Enfield): Great for longer rural or offbeat routes.
Most providers near the airport offer online booking, doorstep delivery, and 24x7 roadside assistance. Be sure to check documents, fuel policy, and kilometers included before you drive off.
Where to Rent: Trusted Providers
Here are a few reliable places for car rental in Bhubaneswar airport and bike rental in BBSR:
Zoomcar, Revv, MyChoize: App-based self drive car rental services.
Ontrack, Royal Brothers, RentTrip: Popular bike rental platforms in Odisha.
Local Providers: You’ll find counters just outside the airport and railway station offering competitive rates.
Always carry a valid driver’s license, Aadhar/passport copy, and a backup power bank for navigation on your mobile.
Road Trip Essentials: Don’t Leave Without These
Offline Maps (Google Maps download or Maps.me)
Snacks and Water
Phone Mount and Car/Bike Charger
Basic First Aid Kit
Cash (ATMs can be sparse in remote areas)
Rain Gear (especially during monsoon months)
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey
Exploring Odisha by road is an experience that brings you closer to its soul—from temple bells echoing in ancient sanctuaries to sea breezes playing with your hair along quiet shores. The convenience of self drive makes the entire journey more intimate and flexible.
Whether you're planning a spiritual escape, an offbeat beach retreat, or a forest adventure, starting your journey with a car rental in Bhubaneswar airport gives you the freedom to shape your own itinerary. And if you're traveling light, bike rental in BBSR might just be the liberating two-wheeled experience you didn’t know you needed.
