Odisha welcomes budget travelers with its sacred temples, vibrant art villages, and untouched nature—all without straining your wallet. With Flipkart coupon codes, PhonePe cashback, and Paytm wallet offers, your journey becomes both rich in experiences and light on expenses. From sun-drenched beaches to cultural carnivals, there’s something for every Indian traveler seeking memorable experiences with minimal spend. SavePlus brings you a curated list tailored to frugal adventurers, homemakers, students, and families. Discover places where authenticity is abundant and spending is minimal. Start saving and start exploring the gems of Odisha—affordably and efficiently.

Explore Jagannath Temple, Puri

Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of India's holiest destinations, drawing millions each year. Entry is free, but the spiritual rewards are priceless. The surrounding atmosphere, religious rituals, and crowd chants create a powerful experience. Outside, small stalls sell items like rudraksha and khadau at very reasonable prices. The temple’s famous Mahaprasad offers hearty meals for low costs. It’s a must-visit for cultural and spiritual depth without monetary stress.

• Visit early in the morning to witness morning rituals which offer a peaceful and crowd-free experience that feels deeply personal and powerful.
  
  
• Taste the temple’s Mahaprasad from Ananda Bazaar which is filling, traditional, and available for under ₹50 making it both spiritual and economical.
  
  
• Shop at nearby stalls for rudraksha malas and souvenirs where local artisans sell devotional items at budget prices without bargaining hassle.

Price: ₹0–₹60

Pro Tip: Combine your temple visit with nearby Puri Beach for a full-day outing under ₹150.

Roam the Golden Beach, Puri

Golden Beach in Puri is the perfect blend of leisure and budget. With a Blue Flag certification, the beach ensures hygiene, safety, and calm vibes. The coast is lined with stalls selling delicious snacks and souvenirs at wallet-friendly rates. You can swim, lounge, or just stroll while enjoying the scenic coastline. Affordable food and free beach access make this a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. It’s ideal for families and solo backpackers alike.

• Try seafood from local vendors with many stalls offering grilled fish and prawns at ₹50–₹100 using PhonePe for extra cashback.
  
  
• Rent beach chairs for under ₹50 where locals provide resting spots for a small fee which saves you the hassle of carrying picnic gear.
  
  
• Capture beautiful sunset moments for free which make for memorable Instagram posts without needing fancy gear or filters.

Price: ₹0–₹100

Pro Tip: Carry your snacks, sunscreen, and water to enjoy the full experience without unnecessary spending.

Witness Konark Sun Temple – UNESCO Heritage on a Budget

The Konark Sun Temple is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entry for Indian nationals is just ₹40, making it one of the most affordable historical sites. Its stone carvings, symbolic wheels, and guided storytelling bring India’s glorious past alive. Local artisans often display handicrafts nearby, adding value to your visit. Well-kept paths and on-site amenities enhance the overall experience. It’s educational, spiritual, and budget-conscious.

• Buy entry tickets on Paytm to earn instant cashback which can be used for snacks or small souvenirs from stalls outside the temple.
  
  
• Hire local guides for ₹100–₹150 who often offer historical storytelling that brings carvings to life and increases appreciation for the monument.
  
  
• Visit Konark Crafts Mela nearby where traditional art is available at ₹50–₹200 with occasional seller discounts or UPI-based price drops.

Price: ₹40–₹200

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or after 4 PM to beat both the heat and tourist crowds while capturing great photos.

Walk through the Streets of Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, the “City of Temples,” offers a free spiritual trail rich in heritage. Iconic temples like Lingaraj, Rajarani, and Mukteshwar have no entry fees. A self-guided walk allows cultural immersion without spending a rupee. The city is dotted with chai stalls and Odia snack counters, making refueling easy and economical. Public transport is widely available and very cheap. It’s a peaceful, enriching, and pocket-friendly urban journey.

• Download the Ekamra Walks app to join free weekend tours which are organized by local authorities and give cultural context while walking.
  
  
• Eat at temple canteens or local stalls nearby where full meals cost as little as ₹60 and provide authentic Odia flavors on a budget.
  
  
• Use autos or e-rickshaws for temple hopping with most short trips costing under ₹20 making local travel extremely wallet-friendly.

Price: ₹0–₹80

Pro Tip: Visit during festival days like Shivratri to enjoy vibrant rituals and cultural performances at no extra cost.

Picnic at Dhauli Hills – Budget Day Escape

Dhauli Hills are perfect for quiet, reflective picnics with a view. The Shanti Stupa here marks the site of the Kalinga War’s end and Ashoka’s peace transformation. It’s free to enter and filled with historical value and natural charm. Located close to Bhubaneswar, you can reach it in 30 minutes using low-cost public transport. The hilltop offers a panoramic view and is surrounded by quiet lawns ideal for lunch or meditation. For peaceful outings, this is your spot.

• Travel using local buses or share-autos which cost under ₹20 and are easily available from Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Kalpana Square.
  
  
• Carry your own picnic lunch and snacks where you can enjoy home-packed meals in shaded spots without paying for expensive eateries.
  
  
• Visit the light and sound show in the evening where tickets cost ₹30–₹50 and provide historical narration using visuals and music.

Price: ₹0–₹50

Pro Tip: Arrive at sunrise for a tranquil experience and scenic views before the area gets crowded.

Shop Handicrafts at Pipli – Affordable Colorful Souvenirs

Pipli is known for its vibrant appliqué work that decorates homes and festivals across Odisha. Located on the Puri–Bhubaneswar highway, it’s a must-stop for budget souvenir shopping. Items like umbrellas, bags, and cushion covers start at ₹30. Most stalls accept UPI and often bundle items at reduced prices. The market is open-air and easy to explore. It’s a vibrant stop that brings color to your trip—without emptying your pocket.

• Buy wall hangings and cushion covers from ₹50 onwards where sellers often reduce prices for bundled purchases paid through UPI.
  
  
• Bargain directly with artisans to get the best rates where prices can drop by 15%–20% especially for regular shoppers or referrals.
  
  
• Look for festive combo packs during Diwali or Rath Yatra which combine different products at a special rate under ₹200.

Price: ₹30–₹200

Pro Tip: Carry cash or UPI to quickly close deals and support local artists directly.

Stroll Through Chilika Lake – Dolphin Spotting on a Budget

Chilika Lake’s Satapada region is perfect for spotting dolphins on a shared boat ride. It’s one of the few places in India where you can see the rare Irrawaddy dolphin. Shared rides cost just ₹120–₹150, making it affordable even for families. Winter is the best season for birdwatching here, adding more value. You’ll find local seafood and street food vendors serving hot meals at ₹50. The tranquility and biodiversity make it a cost-effective retreat.

• Join a shared boat ride at Satapada where the tourism office offers standard rates and the chances of dolphin sightings are highest.
  
  
• Eat local fish thali at budget eateries which offer fried prawn, crab curry, and rice under ₹80 giving a seafood experience at local rates.
  
  
• Use travel apps like MakeMyTrip for nearby hotels where deals with 20% cashback are often available for off-season bookings.

Price: ₹120–₹200

Pro Tip: Visit in winter (Nov–Jan) to catch dolphins and migratory birds at the same time.

Discover Tribal Culture at Odisha State Museum

The Odisha State Museum is a rich archive of tribal artifacts, palm leaf manuscripts, weaponry, and temple sculptures. Located in Bhubaneswar, it offers a curated glimpse into the cultural fabric of the state. With a minimal entry fee of ₹20, it’s perfect for students, researchers, and curious travelers. The museum is air-conditioned, well-organized, and often quiet, offering a peaceful learning space. It’s also close to parks and cafés, making it a great starting point for a full day’s itinerary. The entire experience is culturally fulfilling without requiring heavy spending.

• Show your student ID at the ticket counter which may give extra discounts or access to educational resources inside the museum.
  
  
• Use PhonePe or Paytm at nearby cafés to get wallet cashback after your visit while grabbing affordable snacks and cold drinks.
  
  
• Pair your visit with the nearby Ekamra Haat or Kalinga Stadium which are both free-to-enter and enrich the cultural itinerary.

Price: ₹20–₹80

Pro Tip: Allocate 1.5 hours for the museum and visit early afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting inside galleries.

Attend the Sand Art Festival, Konark

The Sand Art Festival held in December at Chandrabhaga Beach is a spectacular showcase of global sand sculptors. Entry is free, and the event features massive themed sculptures related to Indian festivals, nature, and global peace. You can interact with artists and take photos without any restrictions. The adjoining Konark Dance Festival also makes the trip culturally rewarding. Pop-up stalls serve affordable snacks, art merchandise, and tea. It’s one of the most cost-effective yet high-value cultural festivals in Odisha.

• Watch artists craft massive sand sculptures live which is mesmerizing and provides storytelling through sand without any ticket charges.
  
  
• Enjoy street food like aloo chop and gupchup where prices range from ₹20–₹40 and can be paid via UPI or wallet apps.
  
  
• Shop at popup stalls for keychains, mini sculptures, or postcards at ₹30–₹100 which serve as affordable mementos.

Price: ₹0–₹100

Pro Tip: Visit between 4–6 PM for golden-hour lighting, cooler weather, and perfect selfie backgrounds.

Take a Budget Train Ride on the Puri-Bhubaneswar Line

The Puri–Bhubaneswar train route is ideal for experiencing Odisha’s rural beauty on a dime. Tickets start at ₹15–₹20 for second-class seating and cover scenic landscapes, paddy fields, and village backdrops. Trains are punctual and frequent, making it a reliable commuting option. The ride is short—about an hour—but highly enjoyable. Pack your own snacks and book digitally for cashback offers. It’s the most peaceful and scenic way to travel between two key destinations.

• Book tickets via IRCTC app and use UPI for cashback which applies even on low-value bookings and saves ₹10–₹20 per trip.
  
  
• Travel during off-peak hours to avoid crowds where you’ll find better seating, a peaceful ride, and easier platform access.
  
  
• Carry homemade snacks to avoid vendor prices which ensures hygiene, saves money, and gives comfort during the 1-hour journey.

Price: ₹15–₹20

Pro Tip: Sit on the left side when traveling from Puri to Bhubaneswar for the best countryside views.

Explore Raghurajpur Heritage Village

Raghurajpur is a living art gallery where every home belongs to an artisan. The village is famous for Pattachitra paintings and offers free live demos. You can interact with artists, observe their techniques, and buy art at very fair rates. The ambiance is colorful, peaceful, and tourist-friendly. Smaller items like bookmarks or fridge magnets are available for ₹30–₹70. It’s one of Odisha’s most rewarding yet cost-free cultural immersions.

• Purchase mini artworks like coasters or keychains where prices range from ₹30–₹70 and directly support local artisans.
  
  
• Attend live painting or demo sessions at no cost where you can ask questions, take photos, and understand heritage techniques.
  
  
• Take a walk around decorated village streets where every wall is painted with myths and adds to the immersive experience.

Price: ₹0–₹100

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to see artists actively working and to beat the tourist traffic later in the day.

Eat at Local Dhabas – Delicious Meals

Local dhabas across Odisha serve authentic Odia food that’s affordable and satisfying. For just ₹70–₹90, you get a full thali including rice, dalma, sabzi, chutney, and sweets. These places are popular with drivers, students, and local workers. Many now accept digital payments like Paytm and PhonePe. The flavors are homey, and the portions are generous. If you’re touring temples or beaches, stopping by a roadside eatery is both tasty and practical.

• Ask locals for hidden gems where meals are flavorful, filling, and cheaper than guidebook-recommended eateries.
  
  
• Try regional items like Dalma and Santula where the cost is low, and you get to experience Odia cuisine in its traditional form.
  
  
• Use Zomato Gold or Paytm Food coupons where accepted to save 10%–20% and reduce overall meal expenditure over multiple days.

Price: ₹70–₹90

Pro Tip: Avoid dinner rush hours for quicker service and freshly made meals.

Hike to Barunei Hills

Barunei Hills offer scenic hiking trails, spiritual shrines, and panoramic views of rural Odisha. It’s ideal for a free day trip with friends or a solo escape into nature. The temple at the summit adds spiritual charm, while shaded areas make it a good spot for packed lunches. Local buses from Bhubaneswar cost ₹15–₹20. There’s no entry fee, and small stalls at the base provide tea and snacks affordably. It’s peaceful, safe, and perfect for fitness or photo sessions.

• Start early to avoid sun and crowds where the hike is cooler, wildlife sightings are more frequent, and air feels refreshing.
  
  
• Carry water and light snacks in a backpack where it keeps you energized, saves on vendor costs, and avoids plastic waste.
  
  
• Use local transport like buses from Bhubaneswar costing ₹10–₹15 which makes the entire trip highly affordable for groups.

Price: ₹0–₹30

Pro Tip: Go just after monsoon for lush greenery, cooler air, and the best photo ops.

Check Out the State Handloom Expo – Affordable Style

Odisha’s State Handloom Expo is a textile lover’s paradise on a budget. Sarees start at ₹500, and you’ll also find kurtas, dupattas, and stoles. Entry is free, and UPI payments attract special offers or cashback. You can interact with weavers, understand the weaving process, and shop ethically. Morning visits mean fewer crowds and better selection. Whether for festive wear or gifting, this is your chance to bag quality for less.

• Look for combo packs with saree and blouse piece deals where prices drop to ₹450 with early bird or Diwali season offers.
  
  
• Check for QR code payments to avail wallet discounts where apps like Google Pay or Paytm may give scratch cards worth ₹10–₹50.
  
  
• Buy from weavers’ cooperatives instead of retailers where rates are lower, authenticity is ensured, and the money goes directly to artisans.

Price: ₹0–₹500

Pro Tip: Attend during the first week for full stock and maximum festival-season offers.

Visit the Adivasi Mela – Cultural Carnival in Bhubaneswar

The Adivasi Mela is an annual festival celebrating Odisha's tribal arts, crafts, and cuisine. Entry is free, and the stalls offer items like herbal oils, bamboo art, and millet-based food. Folk performances are scheduled daily, adding music and dance to the atmosphere. Most products range from ₹30 to ₹100, and you can even sample tribal thalis. It’s a rare cultural experience packed with learning and shopping—without hurting your budget.

• Buy tribal crafts like bamboo baskets and jewelry where each item is handmade and affordable, usually starting at ₹50.
  
  
• Attend cultural performances on the open stage where musicians and dancers perform daily without charging any viewing fee.
  
  
• Eat millet-based rotis and lentil dishes at tribal food counters where meals are wholesome, unique, and priced under ₹60.

Price: ₹0–₹100

Pro Tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for deeper interactions with artists and vendors.

Conclusion

Odisha offers a treasure trove of cultural, spiritual, and natural experiences—all without demanding a lavish budget. Whether you're exploring iconic temples, shopping handcrafted treasures, or savoring local flavors, each destination proves that meaningful travel doesn't have to come at a high cost. By planning smart and leveraging seasonal deals, UPI rewards, and shopping hacks, you can explore more and spend less. At SavePlus, we believe that every rupee saved is a rupee earned—especially when it leads to unforgettable memories.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit Odisha on a budget?
November to February, during winter festivals like Konark Dance and Adivasi Mela.

How can I get discounts on Odisha travel bookings?
Use platforms like IRCTC, Yatra, and SavePlus India for promo codes and cashback.

Are there free tourist attractions in Odisha?
Yes, many including Jagannath Temple, Dhauli Hills, and Bhubaneswar temples.

Where can I shop for Odisha handicrafts affordably?
Head to Pipli, Raghurajpur, and state-sponsored expos.

What’s the cheapest way to travel around Odisha?
State buses, shared autos, and budget train rides.