(3) Orissa state, mostly Puri

CT road in Puri, is about 2 km away from Puri railway station, and about 50 km from Bhubaneswar - capital of Orissa.  there are many home-stays available, for cheap rent of 100-150 per day.. some have attached bathroom in that one room as well.  (in season, like nov / dec, when its least hot, prices can go bit up).  overall, most things are cheaper here than most other places of India.  about 3km from CT road, there is Bengali beach (locally known that way), which is touristy and crowded area, with Puri market and lots of buildings around.  the Jagannath temple of Puri, from many many centuries ago is near these area as well.

CT road is mostly residence area of fishermen, which is gradually changing.  about 1km away from CT road beach, towards north, is called as 'empty' beach, which is a deserted area.. great for quiet walks.   the beaches are good, but the sea water is not so clean, as on couple of areas in these long stretch of beach, waste water (small streams) flow into sea.  its such a pity, as there seem to be multiple NGO's / organizations, who are trying to keep everything clean.  a waste water treatment plant is a necessity here. sea waves are rough and it gets deep quickly, so swimming should be recommended for good swimmers.

street food is great in Puri, and various milk based sweets are a must.  Konark temple (more than 1000 years old) is few kilometers away.  there are many other ancient temples around within few km vicinity, but beware of some people who will try to con you out of some money, posing as priests, guides etc.

bicycles can be rented, many corner tea stalls are there to sit leisurely to meet other backpackers, narrow streets are there to explore around.  there are forest areas, and smaller beaches too around.  one day tour buses are there, which charge about 200 rupees per person, and could be used first to explore, and then travel on your own pace later, if required. but overall, its an idle relaxing vacation place, and most shops are aimed at such travelers in CT road.

 didnt take many photos here.  though noticed, the sun sets here comparatively early than in Mumbai..  like around 5pm onwards, and gets darker by around 6pm.. it rises early too,  well, maybe i should have noted down, specific aspects everyday, during my stay here, but my main aim was to experience everything first..  so, orissa days now seem idle, leisure days.. which they were.


sunset at puri beach, around 5.15pm

 at Konark Temple... huge stone wheel


 at CT road.. a temple