Planning weekend self drive trips from Bhubaneswar is an excellent method of breaking the monotony of your daily life and still getting to experience beautiful Odisha’s nature, culture, and serene ambience. These short road trips have turned out to be more convenient, safe, and fun with the roads being refurbished every year. No matter if you are a beach person, a hill lover, or fond of forests and wildlife, Odisha has some of the best weekend getaways Odisha travellers can’t live without, which only take 2 day trips.
Self drive trips provide the closest to total freedom and peace of mind that you cannot be able to find in other forms of transportation. This guide has the top 5 weekend road trips from Bhubaneswar, each selected for its scenic beauty, traffic free roads, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Puri & Konark Marine Drive The Classic Coastal Escape
A self drive weekend trip from Bhubaneswar is more or less incomplete without a detour on the gorgeous Puri and Konark route. It is a combination of beaches, heritage, and beautiful road stretches, which are equally good for new and experienced travellers.
Why Visit?
1)Perfect beach with soft, natural sandy shores
2)Calm and peaceful views of the sea
3)Konark Sun Temple: a treasure of the world
4)Extended Marine Drive with cafes and casuarina plantations
Driving Experience
The trip of about 65 to 70 km is a real pleasure, and the road is in good condition all the way. The sea facing bends, tall trees, and open skies along Marine Drive give a feeling of rejuvenation.
A small car like the Hyundai i20 or Maruti Baleno would be the best choice as it is very easy to manoeuvre and ideal for beach roads.
Best for
Couples • Families • Relaxed travelers
2. Daringbadi The Most Loved Hill Station Road Trip
Next on the list of weekend self drive trips from Bhubaneswar is Daringbadi.
Daringbadi is still one of the top weekend off the beaten path road trips from Bhubaneswar and has been dubbed the ”Kashmir of Odisha.”
Why Visit?
1)Dense pine forests Coffee and pepper gardens
2)Khasada Waterfall
3)Misty mornings and cool weather
Driving Experience
The road over 250+ km goes through woods, bends, and gentle hills. Ground clearance is better, and thus, an SUV like the Hyundai Venue or Hyundai Creta can make the ride more comfortable.
Best for
Nature lovers • Friends • Adventure seekers
3. Gopalpur on Sea A Peaceful Beach Retreat
If you are a fan of relaxing short road trips, then Gopalpur is definitely the right choice. The tranquil beach and laid back vibe are perfect for a quiet weekend getaway.
Why Visit?
1)Clean and serene beach
2)Beautiful sunrise view
3)Fresh seafood Deliciously
4)Long beach walks
Driving Experience
The road is broad, and it is a breeze to drive on it. Parents can take their children on this trip with no worries, as the road conditions are very safe and predictable.
Large families will find the Maruti Ertiga a good companion. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Creta can provide great comfort to a group of 4 people to 5 people.
Best for
Families • Couples • Photography lovers
4. Satkosia Gorge Wildlife, Forests & River Adventures
Satkosia stands out as an insanely exciting weekend self driving trip from Bhubaneswar. The place has the best of wildlife, forests, and stunning river views, literally in one package.
Why Visit?
1)Boat rides at Tikarpada.
2)Cleanest crocodile conservation centre
3)Satkosia Tiger Reserve
4)Eco-resorts along the river
Driving Experience
Most of the way is on tarmac. The very last section, however, goes through some forest patches. An SUV like the Ertiga or Kia Carena will give you a smooth and comfortable ride that’s stable.
Best for
Adventure lovers • Wildlife lovers • Groups of friends
5. Chilika Lake (Barkul or Rambha) Scenic Waters & Bird Watching
Chilika remains one of the most timeless 2 day trips that Odisha families are always inclined to take. Its serene water bodies, along with alluring resorts, make it a spot of absolute tranquillity for the weekend.
Why Visit?
1)The largest brackish water lagoon in India
2)Superb bird watching in winter
3)Boat rides to Kalijai Island
4)Beautiful lakeview stays
Driving Experience
The NH-16 path is both swift and comfortable. Cars like the Hyundai i20 are good choices for a relaxing and fuel saving drive.
Best for
Families • Couples • Senior travelers
Rideez Car Recommendations for 5 Trips
A vehicle that fits your needs perfectly can make a weekend road trip from Bhubaneswar a delight. Rideez Car offers a variety of clean and well kept cars that are suitable for any number of people.
Best Cars for Couples (4 Seaters)
Ideal for compact, efficient, and comfortable highway drives.
Rideez Car Recommendations:
1)Hyundai i20
2)Thar
Best Cars for Friends (5 Seaters)
The right combination of space, comfort, and power.
Rideez Car Recommendations:
1)Hyundai Venue
2)creata
3)swift
Best Cars for Families (7 Seaters)
Perfect for long journeys with luggage.
Rideez Car Recommendations:
1)Maruti Ertiga
2)Kia Caren
3)Xuv 500
Tips to Make Your Weekend Self Drive Trips Even Better
A good destination is important, but having a smooth journey is even more crucial. These practical tips will help make your weekend self drive trips from Bhubaneswar safer, easier, and more enjoyable.
1. Start Early for Better Roads and Views
Starting early helps you avoid city traffic. The morning light also makes your drive more pleasant and improves visibility on highways.
2. Use Offline Maps in Low Network Zones
Some short road trips, like Satkosia and Daringbadi, go through forest areas. Network drops are common, so download offline maps before you start.
3. Keep Emergency Essentials Handy
Carry water, snacks, power banks, a basic first aid kit, and your car documents. These small items can make a big difference during two day trips in Odisha.
4. Take Regular Breaks
Stopping every 1.5 to 2 hours keeps you fresh and alert. Many highways have clean dhabas and fuel stations where you can stretch and relax.
5. Book Your Car in Advance, Especially on Weekends
Rideez cars fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Booking early ensures you get the exact car you want, whether it’s an i20 for a couple, a Venue for friends, or an Ertiga for large families.
6. Respect Local Rules and Nature Spots
Places like Satkosia, Gopalpur, and Chilika are ecologically sensitive. Avoid littering, keep noise levels down, and follow the guidelines for forests or beaches.
Conclusion
The pleasure of weekend self drive trips from Bhubaneswar is the liberty to visit beaches, forests, hills, and coastlines at one’s own speed. Such short road trips are great for families, couples, or individuals who love the open road and new experiences. Whether it is the refreshing hills of Daringbadi or the serene waters of Chilika, these 2 day trips in Odisha are the ideal weekend getaway.
To ensure that your journey is without hassle, Rideez Car Rental offers the right car for every traveller be it the compact Hyundai i20, the versatile Hyundai Venue, or the roomy Ertiga. Their clean and well maintained vehicles are your tickets to a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable ride.
Key Takeaways for Travellers
- Weekend self driving trips from Bhubaneswar are just right for a quick beach, hill, and forest.
- Puri, Daringbadi, Gopalpur, Satkosia, and Chilika are fantastic short road trips to suit every kind of traveller.
- These places are perfect 2 day trips in Odisha for families, couples, and friends.
- Make the right car choice for a comfortable ride, i20 / Swift : couples , Venue / Creta : friend groups , Ertiga / Kia Carens : big families
- Rideez Car has comfortable and hygienic vehicles that are perfect for long journeys and weekend outings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Puri, Daringbadi, Gopalpur, Satkosia, and Chilika are the most popular places to visit.
Indeed, the highways of all five routes are smooth, and the navigation is simple.
Two days are sufficient to discover, rejuvenate, and go back without any hassle.
Small cars like the Hyundai i20 or Swift are just right.
Medium sized cars such as the Hyundai Venue would provide good space and performance.
The Maruti Ertiga or XUV 500 is the most suitable for family comfort.
Indeed, all the main highways have regular fuel stations and restaurants.
