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Short on Time? These Quick Weekend Getaways Around Odisha Are Worth It

Maximize your limited weekend time with these perfectly planned day trips and overnight escapes.

Admin User
August 15, 2025
3 min read
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Short on Time? These Quick Weekend Getaways Around Odisha Are Worth It

Making the Most of Minimal Time

Between work deadlines, family commitments, and life's endless demands, finding time for a proper vacation feels impossible. But what if we told you that some of the most refreshing experiences can happen in just 24-48 hours? Here are our tested short getaways that maximize impact while respecting your busy schedule.

The 6-Hour Wonders (Perfect for Day Trips)

1. Pipli and Raghurajpur Cultural Circuit (4 hours total)

Distance: 45 minutes from Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: Culture enthusiasts, art lovers

Start with Pipli's famous appliqué work – watch artisans create colorful umbrellas and wall hangings. Then head to Raghurajpur, where every house is an art studio. You'll see pattachitra paintings being created and maybe even try your hand at it.

Time breakdown:

  • Travel: 1.5 hours total
  • Pipli exploration: 1.5 hours
  • Raghurajpur art tour: 2 hours
  • Lunch at local homestay: 1 hour

2. Dhauli Peace Pagoda and Udayagiri Caves (5 hours total)

Distance: 30 minutes from Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: History buffs, peace seekers

Explore ancient Jain caves in the morning, then visit the serene peace pagoda where Emperor Ashoka transformed from conqueror to Buddhist. The sunset view from Dhauli is spectacular.

The Overnight Refreshers (24-Hour Escapes)

3. Chilika Lake Overnight (24 hours)

Distance: 1.5 hours from Bhubaneswar

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers

Day 1 Evening: Arrive, check into lakeside accommodation, sunset boat ride

Day 2 Morning: Dolphin watching tour, visit Kalijai Island

Day 2 Afternoon: Return via Puri beach for lunch

4. Konark Sun Temple Weekend (24 hours)

Distance: 2 hours from Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts, beach lovers

Day 1: Explore the magnificent Sun Temple, evening at Chandrabhaga Beach

Day 2: Sunrise at the temple, visit Konark Museum, return via coastal route

The Weekend Warriors (48-Hour Adventures)

5. Satkosia Tiger Reserve (2 days, 1 night)

Distance: 3 hours from Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers

Experience river rafting, jungle safari, and overnight stay in eco-cottages. It's like a mini African safari right in Odisha.

6. Simlipal National Park (2 days, 1 night)

Distance: 4 hours from Bhubaneswar

Best for: Serious nature lovers, photographers

Waterfalls, tribal villages, and if you're extremely lucky, tiger sightings. The journey itself through sal forests is therapeutic.

Pro Tips for Short Trips

Smart Planning

  • Leave Friday evening: Beat Saturday morning traffic
  • Pack light: Just one small bag for overnight trips
  • Book accommodation in advance: Especially during peak season
  • Start early: 6 AM departures give you maximum time

What to Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light jacket (Odisha mornings can be cool)
  • Portable charger and camera
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Reusable water bottle

Transportation Made Easy

We've partnered with reliable drivers who know these routes perfectly. They'll pick you up, handle navigation, and ensure you're back on time for Monday morning meetings. No stress, just exploration.

The Short Trip Philosophy

You don't need weeks off to reset your mind. Sometimes 24 hours in a new environment, breathing different air, and seeing different sights is exactly what your soul needs. These short trips have become weekend therapy for Bhubaneswar's working professionals.

Life's too short to wait for the perfect vacation time. Start with a perfect weekend instead.

About the Author

Admin User is a weekend experience curator at GoWeekends, passionate about discovering and sharing the best adventures Odisha has to offer.

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