GETTING THERE

Bhubaneswar airport is 60 km away from Puri, and is connected by flights with all major cities in India.

WHEN

Rath Yatra is held in July. Visit anytime between September and February for pleasant weather.

IDEAL FOR

Devotees and culture enthusiasts.

STAY

Mayfair Heritage is undoubtedly the best pick for a luxury vacation (starts from `8,000/US$113, mayfairhotels.com); Mahodadhi Palace makes for a decent budget choice (starts from `3,300/US$47, mahodadhipalace.com).

DISCOVER

Travel to Satpada side of the Chilika Lake (Asia’s largest brackish water lake) to see Irrawaddy dolphins. Visit the nearby heritage handicrafts village of Raghurajpur, which is world famous for its pattachitra art (paintings on cloth) and gotipua dance form. Another handicrafts village, Pipli, is 45 minutes away, and is famous for the chandua applique and patchwork. Konark Sun Temple is an hour’s drive from Puri. You can also explore Nuanai nature camp, which is located along the marine drive road from Puri to Konark.