Hey there! I’m Aditi Patnaik. Living in Bhubaneswar has its perks, especially when it comes to spontaneous day trips to some pretty iconic spots. This time, our squad of six packed into a cab from TransRentals and set off for a whirlwind tour of Puri and Konark. Trust me, it was a day to remember!

Starting with Dawn

We kicked off our journey early to catch the sunrise—the best decision ever! The skies turned from a soft pink to a brilliant orange, a perfect backdrop as we drove towards our first destination. The vibe was just right, with our driver, Mr. Ashok, dropping fun facts and the kids playing eye-spy.

First Stop: Majestic Konark Sun Temple

Our first stop was the awe-inspiring Sun Temple at Konark. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, shaped like a gigantic chariot, was our history lesson for the day. The intricate carvings of the temple walls left us all in awe—seriously, they don’t make them like this anymore! We spent a lot of time here, with Mr. Ashok explaining the myths and architecture that define this place.

Puri Calling: Lord Jagannath and Sandy Toes

Next, we headed to Puri, home to the renowned Jagannath Temple. The energy in and around the temple was electrifying, with devotees and tourists mingling in the sacred area. We managed to join a short puja, which was a profound experience for everyone, especially the grandparents.

After some divine intervention, it was time for some sun and sand at Puri Beach. The kids (and, let’s be honest, the adults, too) couldn’t resist dipping their toes in the water while I got busy with my camera, trying to capture the perfect wave. We munched on fresh seafood and some local snacks—because what’s a beach visit without some grub?

Artistic Interlude: Pattachitra and Sand Art

No trip to Puri is complete without exploring its rich artistic heritage. We visited a local Pattachitra (traditional cloth-based scroll painting) studio, where the art form’s vibrant colors and intricate details fascinated us. We even picked up a few pieces as souvenirs. At the beach, we watched a sand artist create mind-blowing sculptures with sand and water—Puri’s talent!

Reflective Moments by Chandrabhaga Beach

Before returning, we stopped at the less crowded Chandrabhaga Beach for some quiet time. The sunset here wasn’t just a visual treat but a moment of calm that wrapped our busy day in a beautiful, peaceful end.

Cruise Back to Bhubaneswar

As Mr. Ashok drove us back to Bhubaneswar, everyone shared their favorite parts of the day. The car buzzed with stories and laughter, a true sign of a well-done day. We dropped back into the city lights, already nostalgic about the day’s journey.

Home Sweet Home

We returned home with sandy shoes, sun-kissed cheeks, and hearts full of happy memories. Thanks to TransRentals for the smooth ride and Mr. Ashok for his insights and care. Exploring the beauty in our backyard was a blast, and I’m already planning the next trip.

So, that was our fabulous day trip from Bhubaneswar to Puri and Konark! If you’re ever in this part of the world, you know what spots to hit. Until our next adventure—keep wandering and wondering!

Cheers to road trips and family time! 🚗🌅🏖️