There’s something magical about Puri that you don’t fully understand until you’re actually there — the smell of salty sea air, temple bells ringing in the distance, the rhythm of waves crashing against the shore, and streets filled with pilgrims, travelers, and food vendors calling out their specialties. It’s a town where spirituality, history, beach life, and local culture blend in the most effortless way.
But here’s the thing — Puri is not just one spot. It’s a collection of beautiful places scattered around the coastline, temples tucked into lanes, heritage villages nearby, and hidden gems a little outside town. And that’s exactly why exploring Puri becomes so much easier and more enjoyable when you have your own ride. Many travelers take a Bhubaneswar to Puri cab or opt for a car rental in Bhubaneswar before heading toward the coast, and honestly, it makes the whole experience smoother, more comfortable, and far more flexible.
Let’s take a journey through the best places you can easily cover in Puri when you have a rental car at your disposal.
No trip to Puri begins anywhere else. The Jagannath Temple isn’t just a religious site; it’s the soul of the city. Standing tall with its grand architecture and spiritual aura, the temple attracts millions every year.
When you travel by rental car, you can arrive early in the morning to avoid peak rush hours. You don’t have to depend on auto timings or crowded buses. You can park nearby (in designated areas) and take your time soaking in the atmosphere — the chants, the rituals, the massive temple kitchen, and the energy that feels almost electric.
If you’ve taken a Bhubaneswar to Puri cab, most drivers also guide you on the best entry times and routes around the temple area.
Just a short drive from the temple area, Puri Beach is where spirituality meets serenity. Morning walks here feel almost poetic — fishermen bringing in their catch, locals doing yoga, kids building sand castles, and tourists just sitting quietly watching the sun rise.
Having a car means you can visit the beach multiple times a day. Early morning for calm, evening for the lively street food scene, and maybe even late night just to hear the waves.
Street snacks like chaat, roasted peanuts, and fresh coconut water taste better when you’re not rushing to catch public transport back.
About 35 km from Puri lies one of India’s most stunning heritage sites — the Konark Sun Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site looks like a giant stone chariot carved with mind-blowing detail.
The coastal drive from Puri to Konark is one of the most scenic routes in Odisha. Dense casuarina trees line the road, the sea occasionally peeks through, and the road is smooth and enjoyable. With a car rental in Bhubaneswar or a local rental from Puri, you can stop along the way for photos or tea breaks.
Public transport to Konark can be irregular, but with your own vehicle, it becomes a relaxed half-day trip.
Near Konark, Chandrabhaga Beach is less crowded than Puri Beach and feels almost untouched. If you love peaceful shorelines and long walks without too many people around, this is your spot.
Since it’s not in the main town, having a rental car is a big advantage. You can spend time there without worrying about return rides.
Around 14 km from Puri, Raghurajpur is an artist village famous for Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, and traditional crafts. Every house here is like a mini art gallery.
Driving here gives you the freedom to explore slowly, talk to artists, watch them work, and buy authentic souvenirs directly from creators. A Bhubaneswar to Puri cab driver often includes this stop if you ask, but with your own car, you’re not bound by anyone else’s schedule.
If you love nature, this is a must. Satapada, around 50 km from Puri, is where you can see Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika Lake. The boat ride through the vast lagoon is unforgettable.
It’s an early start kind of place, and reaching on time is easier when you’re driving yourself or using a dedicated rental vehicle. This is one of those spots where public buses don’t give you the comfort or timing flexibility you need.
Less crowded than the main temple, Gundicha Temple has calm surroundings and historical significance, especially during Rath Yatra. It’s an easy drive and a peaceful break from the busy city center.
This museum is a hidden gem. Sculptures, paintings, handicrafts — all under one roof. It’s a quick drive and great if you’re interested in art and heritage.
Puri isn’t about rushing. It’s about pausing — for a coconut drink, a temple ritual, a photo stop, or a conversation with a local artisan. Public transport sticks you to fixed routes and times. Autos may charge high during tourist seasons.
When you use a car rental in Bhubaneswar before heading to Puri, or book a Bhubaneswar to Puri cab, you get:
Freedom to stop anywhere
Comfortable travel with family
Space for luggage and shopping
Safe late evening travel
Ability to cover nearby attractions easily
Morning: Jagannath Temple → Puri Beach sunrise
Late Morning: Raghurajpur Village
Afternoon: Drive to Konark Sun Temple
Evening: Chandrabhaga Beach sunset
Night: Return to Puri Beach food street
Try doing that with buses — nearly impossible without stress.
Start early to avoid temple rush
Carry water and sunscreen
Respect temple dress codes
Keep small cash for local shops
Pre-book your Bhubaneswar to Puri cab in peak season
Road trips add emotion to travel. The music in the car, sudden tea stops, kids laughing in the back seat, the window down with sea breeze hitting your face — these small moments become the real memories. Puri is not just a destination. It’s a feeling. And when you explore it with the comfort and flexibility of a rental vehicle, you experience more than just sightseeing — you experience the rhythm of the place. Book a car rental in Bhubaneswar, take a relaxed Bhubaneswar to Puri cab, and let the road lead you to temples, beaches, villages, and stories you’ll remember long after the trip ends.