Sometimes, all you need is a quick break to relax and recharge — and luckily, many short trips near Bhubaneswar are perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you love beaches, temples, waterfalls, or peaceful nature spots, you don’t have to travel far to find them. Within 200 km of the city, you’ll discover amazing places filled with beauty, culture, and calm. So if you’re planning a mini-vacation with family or friends, here are some of the best places to visit near Bhubaneswar that make for a perfect short trip.
1. Puri (60 km) – Beaches, Jagannath Temple, local food
Just a two-hour drive from Bhubaneswar, Puri is one of the most loved weekend spots in Odisha. Famous for the Jagannath Temple, this beach town beautifully blends spirituality with relaxation. You can spend your mornings at the golden Puri Beach, enjoy the sea breeze, and try delicious local seafood and Odia-style sweets like Khaja. Don’t miss watching the sunset — it’s truly magical. making it one of the best short trips near Bhubaneswar.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Easily accessible by road or train from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to February for pleasant weather.
🧳Travel Tip: Start early to avoid crowds at the temple and catch the sunset at Puri Beach.
2. Konark (65 km) – Sun Temple, sea beach, heritage site
Located just 65 km(1.5 hours by road) from Bhubaneswar, Konark is one of Odisha’s most beautiful heritage destinations. The world-famous Sun Temple, a grand stone structure, is a remarkable example of old temple design. Every wall of the temple tells a story. Don’t miss the Konark Sun Temple Light and Sound Show in the evening, which beautifully tells the temple’s history and stories(October to March). making it a one-day trip from Bhubaneswar. Just nearby, the peaceful Chandrabhaga Beach offers calm waves and stunning sunrise views, perfect for a quiet morning walk.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Easily accessible by road or train from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: November to February for cool weather and scenic views.
🧳Travel Tip: Visit early to explore the temple before it gets crowded and enjoy a quiet moment at Chandrabhaga Beach.
3. Chilika Lake (105 km) – Bird watching, boating, dolphins
Just a 2-hour drive from Bhubaneswar, Chilika Lake is a famous, internationally recognized wet area and a popular spot for birdwatching. The lake is home to thousands of birds that come and go, especially during the winter months. You can take a boat ride from Satapada, Mangalajodi, or Balugaon to explore the lake’s beauty. Popular activities include dolphin watching, visiting Kalijai Temple on an island, and enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Approximately 2 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: November to February for birdwatching and pleasant weather.
🧳Travel Tip: Book your boat ride in advance, especially during peak season, and carry binoculars for birdwatching.
4. Salia Dam – A Peaceful Spot Near Chilika Lake
Located about 85 km from Khordha town and close to Chilika Lake, Salia Dam is a beautiful place with trees and hills. It’s perfect for a relaxing visit, short walks, or enjoying nature’s beauty away from the city. The dam also helps manage the flow of freshwater, which supports the health of the nearby Chilika Lake.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Around 1.5–2 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to March for pleasant weather.
🧳Travel Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy peaceful views and take photos of the surrounding hills and water.
5. Rambha – Quiet Lakeside Escape on Chilika Lake
About 140 km from Bhubaneswar, Rambha sits on the southern edge of Chilika Lake and offers a calm getaway by the water. With gentle waves, quiet islands, boat rides, and rich birdlife, it’s a peaceful place to slow down and connect with nature. Just sitting by the lakeside at sunset, Rambha is full of relaxed charm. The nearby heritage resort (Rambha Palace) adds a bit of old-world feel to the visit.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Approximately 3 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to February for cool weather and bird-watching.
🧳Travel Tip: Book a boat early to visit the lake’s islands, and carry binoculars for bird spotting.
6. Satkosia Gorge (160 km) – Nature, forest stay, eco-tourism
About 160 km from Bhubaneswar, Satkosia Gorge is a peaceful area by the Mahanadi River. It’s ideal for nature lovers, with opportunities for boat rides, short forest walks, and spotting animals like deer, elephants, and many birds. Staying in eco-friendly lodges adds to the experience, letting you enjoy the calm river and green hills away from city life.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: 4 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: November to March.
🧳Travel Tip: Stay overnight in a forest lodge and bring binoculars to observe the wildlife.
7. Pandava Bakhara – Historic caves near the Forest
Located about 38 km from Bhubaneswar, in the heart of the Chandaka Forest area near Cuttack, Pandava Bakhara is a little-known rock shelter that mixes nature and history. The site features caves believed to be over 3,000 years old, and local legends say the five brothers of the Pandavas rested here during their exile. At the top, you’re rewarded with calm views of the hills and river below. It’s a great pick for anyone who loves a bit of adventure, quiet nature, and ancient stories.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: Roughly 1 hour by road from Bhubaneswar, then a 1 km uphill trail.
🕒Best Time: October to March for pleasant weather and safe trekking.
🧳Travel Tip: Wear good shoes for the trail, bring water, and consider hiring a local guide to explore the caves and rock art safely.
8. Gopalpur (175 km) – Peaceful Beach Destination
Around 175 km from Bhubaneswar, Gopalpur is a calm beach town perfect for a slow and relaxing getaway. The soft sands, clean beach, and gentle sea waves make it a great place for couples, families, and anyone who wants a quiet holiday by the water. Visitors can enjoy morning walks, fresh seafood, and beautiful sunrise and sunset views. The nearby places like Gopalpur Lighthouse and Taptapani hot springs also make the trip more enjoyable.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: 3.5 to 4 hours by road or train from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to February for pleasant beach weather.
🧳Travel Tip: Carry sunscreen and plan some time in the evening to enjoy the peaceful sea breeze on the beach.
9. Ansupa Lake (Approx. 50 km from Bhubaneswar)
Ansupa Lake is a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by greenery and hills, making it an ideal spot for a short escape from the city. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or just relaxing by the water while watching migratory birds during the winter months. The lake is also surrounded by small villages, giving travelers a chance to experience local life and culture in a serene environment.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: About 1.5 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to February for cool weather and birdwatching.
🧳Travel Tip: Carry binoculars for bird spotting and enjoy a boat ride to fully explore the lake.
10. Atri Hot Springs (40 km from Bhubaneswar)
Atri is a natural hot water spring known for its warm mineral-rich water, surrounded by trees and peaceful nature. People visit here to take a relaxing dip in the hot spring pool and enjoy a quiet break from the city. Nearby, the small temple dedicated to Lord Hattakeswar adds a spiritual touch to the visit, making Atri a calm and refreshing weekend stop.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗How to Reach: About 1.5 hours by road from Bhubaneswar.
🕒Best Time: October to February for cool weather and birdwatching.
🧳Travel Tip: Carry binoculars for bird spotting and enjoy a boat ride to fully explore the lake.
11. Panchalingeswar (Approx. 200 km from Bhubaneswar)
Panchalingeswar is a beautiful hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the river near the forested hills. The temple is famous for its five Shiva lingams and natural beauty, offering a peaceful environment for pilgrims and nature lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy a short trek up the steps to the temple while taking in the forested area, cool breeze, and open view of the hills and river below.
Travel Guide & Tips:
🚗 How to Reach: About 5 hours by road from Bhubaneswar; private taxi or cab recommended.
🕒 Best Time: October to February for pleasant weather and clear views.
🧳 Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the short trek and carry water for the climb.
If you want to take short trips from Bhubaneswar, many trips near the city are perfect for a day or a weekend. You can visit peaceful lakes, beautiful temples, scenic natural spots, or small towns with an interesting culture and local cuisine. All of these places are within 200 km, so you don’t have to travel far to enjoy something different.
These trips are ideal for spending quality time with family or friends, relaxing, and discovering new places. You can take a quick drive, enjoy the journey, and spend the day seeing new sights or trying local activities. It is a simple way to feel refreshed and enjoy your free time without going too far from home.
The next time you’re looking for a short trip, consider these destinations near Bhubaneswar. Plan your visit, enjoy the scenery, and make some happy memories. Some of the most enjoyable experiences are very close to the city, waiting for you to explore them.
