Category: Hotels

Escape to the Sea: Your Serene Stay at Toshali Sands, Puri

When the rhythm of the waves calls and the promise of slow, sunlit mornings beckons, Puri is where the journey leads. Set amid swaying casuarina and coconut groves, Toshali Sands offers a peaceful coastal retreat that blends the soul of Odisha with the ease of modern hospitality. Whether you are arriving for a relaxed beach holiday, a family getaway, or a destination celebration, this is where time unspools gently and memories linger.

Where Coastal Calm Meets Easy Connectivity

Tucked a short drive away from Puri’s iconic beachfront and the revered Jagannath Temple, Toshali Sands gives you the best of both worlds: quiet, green surroundings and quick access to the city’s cultural heart. Wake to birdsong, step out to leafy paths, and head to the shore when the sea calls. It’s the kind of base that encourages exploration without sacrificing rest.

Rooms and Cottages Designed for Downtime

From cozy rooms to cottage-style accommodations, the spaces are created for comfort and calm:

  • Natural tones, soft linens, and thoughtful lighting
  • Private sit-outs in select categories to enjoy the breeze
  • Functional workspaces for short stints of focus
  • In-room tea and coffee for unhurried mornings

Expect the essentials done right, with warm service that feels personal and unobtrusive.

Flavors of Odisha, Global Comforts

Good travel is anchored by good food. At Toshali Sands, you will find:

  • Local specialties rooted in Odia cooking traditions
  • Fresh seafood sourced from the nearby coast
  • Balanced, familiar global dishes for every palate
  • Open, airy dining spaces and outdoor settings when the weather is kind

Pair your meal with a glass of something refreshing and let the evening stretch out.

Slow Living by the Sea

The best itineraries here have just two verbs: wander and unwind. Spend your days by the pool. Take a laid-back stroll to the beach. Or settle in with a book under a palm’s shade. If you are feeling active, plan a sunrise walk on the sand or a cycling loop through nearby lanes. Families will find plenty of space for children to run, explore, and play.

Celebrations and Gatherings, Effortlessly Hosted

If you are planning a wedding, reunion, or an offsite, Toshali Sands offers lawns, banquet areas, and flexible indoor venues that are easy to customize:

  • Intimate pre-wedding functions or large destination ceremonies
  • Corporate meets that balance focus with relaxation
  • Curated menus, décor support, and logistics coordination

The team specializes in seamless, stress-free events so you can remain present for the moments that matter.

Explore Puri and Beyond

When you are ready to step out, Puri rewards curiosity:

  • Jagannath Temple: A living center of faith and heritage
  • Puri Beach: Sunrise walks, shells underfoot, the horizon unending
  • Raghurajpur: A crafts village known for Pattachitra paintings
  • Chilika Lake: Birdlife, boat rides, and quiet water vistas

Return in time for tea and a sunset sky that melts into the Bay of Bengal.

Wellness in Small, Meaningful Moments

Wellness here is woven into everyday rituals:

  • Morning stretches on the lawn
  • A refreshing swim to shake off the noon heat
  • Long, device-free evenings under a canopy of stars

Choose your pace. This is a place that lets you put the world on pause.

Thoughtful Hospitality

What defines the experience at Toshali Sands is a certain kind of warmth—attentive yet light, consistent yet never scripted. The team is happy to help with travel tips, local experiences, and little details that make your stay smoother.

Plan Your Coastal Getaway

Puri is timeless. The sea is constant. And Toshali Sands is your quiet corner by the coast. Book a short escape or linger longer—either way, you will leave with sand in your shoes and a slower rhythm in your step.

If you would like, I can tailor this blog with specific room categories, dining outlets, event capacity details, seasonal offers, and exact distances once you share them.

Your Royal Retreat Awaits: Discovering the Charm of Toshali Royal View, Shimla

Escape the everyday and step into a world of breathtaking natural beauty and serene luxury at Toshali Royal View, Shimla. Nestled majestically on the picturesque Kufri-Chail Road, this exquisite resort is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience, promising an unforgettable mountain retreat.

The View that Steals Your Heart: Valley View Rooms

Imagine waking up to the gentle hush of the Himalayas, the air crisp and clean, and a sprawling panorama of lush green valleys unfolding right before your eyes. This is the daily reality for guests staying in the exclusive valley view rooms at Toshali Royal View. Whether you choose a Royal Deluxe, a spacious Royal Studio, or a luxurious Royal Executive Suite, many accommodations feature private balconies that serve as your personal viewing deck. Sip your morning tea as the mist clears over the pine-covered hills, or watch the distant towns twinkle like scattered diamonds as evening descends. It’s the kind of view that rejuvenates the soul and makes every moment feel like a postcard.

A Prime Location for Exploration

Toshali Royal View boasts a perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Its enviable location on the Chail Kufri Road places it centrally within the “Golden Triangle” of Shimla, Chail, and Kufri. This strategic position makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s top tourist destinations without being caught in the bustle of the main city.

  • Kufri: Just a short drive away, Kufri is famous for its stunning views, the Himalayan Nature Park, and adventure activities. It’s a must-visit for its winter sports and the fun-filled Kufri Fun World.
  • Chail: Known for its quiet, dense forests and the highest cricket ground in the world, Chail offers a peaceful alternative to Shimla’s crowds. The historic Chail Palace is a magnificent landmark to explore.
  • The Shimla Main Attractions: While enjoying the calm of the resort’s location, you are still within easy reach of Shimla’s iconic Mall Road, the historic Ridge, and the famous Jakhoo Temple. The resort’s travel desk can help you plan seamless excursions.

Beyond the View: Comfort and Amenities

The resort ensures your stay is steeped in comfort. The elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including premium bedding and heating to ensure a cozy mountain stay. Beyond your room, the resort offers a range of facilities to enhance your vacation:

  • Dining: The multi-cuisine “Viceroy” restaurant offers a delightful culinary journey, serving everything from local Indian flavors to international dishes.
  • Rejuvenation: Indulge in a relaxing treatment at the on-site spa or maintain your routine at the fitness center.
  • Entertainment: Enjoy a game of billiards or table tennis in the games room, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

For those seeking a perfect blend of spectacular views, convenient access to all the region’s highlights, and luxurious comfort, Toshali Royal View, Shimla is the destination of choice. Book your valley view room today and get ready to create magical memories in the heart of the Himalayas!

Toshali Sands Puri: A Luxurious Oasis with a Private Beach

Nestled majestically on the picturesque Puri-Konark Marine Drive, Toshali Sands emerges as a premier destination among luxury hotels in Puri. This expansive 4-star hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a meticulously crafted private resort that spans 30 acres, offering a harmonious blend of traditional Odia hospitality, modern comforts, and an unparalleled connection with nature, complete with the coveted amenity of a private beach.

From the moment you arrive, the resort’s commitment to creating a serene environment is evident in its magnificent garden and vast green lawn. These meticulously maintained spaces are a defining feature, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling world outside. Pathways wind through lush tropical foliage, leading to charming cottages and villas, each offering verdant views. The extensive green lawn serves as a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, morning yoga sessions, or simply unwinding amidst nature’s embrace. Children too find their haven in the dedicated children’s park, equipped with swings, slides, and ample space for playful adventures, ensuring that younger guests are as entertained as their adult counterparts.

Leisure and relaxation are at the forefront of the Toshali Sands experience, with its inviting swimming pool acting as a central hub. This large, pristine outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing dip or a relaxed sunbathing session. Adjacent to the pool, the vibrant bar, Madhuban, ensures that your refreshment needs are met with a selection of exotic cocktails, mocktails, and light snacks. In the evenings, the poolside area often transforms into a magical setting for candlelit dinners and barbecues, creating memorable moments under the starlit sky.

For those seeking ultimate rejuvenation, the resort’s dedicated spa is a sanctuary of wellness. Offering a range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies, the spa provides a holistic approach to relaxation and healing. Skilled therapists utilize traditional techniques and natural ingredients to soothe the mind, body, and soul, leaving guests feeling revitalized and refreshed. This focus on well-being further solidifies Toshali Sands’ reputation as a top-tier luxury retreat.

The culinary journey at Toshali Sands is a highlight, with the multi-cuisine restaurant, Phulpatna, taking center stage. Known for its extensive menu, it offers a delightful array of Indian, Continental, and Oriental dishes, with a special emphasis on authentic Odia cuisine and fresh, locally sourced seafood. The resort’s commitment to quality ingredients, often sourced from its own organic farm, ensures a fresh and flavorful dining experience. Whether it’s a lavish buffet breakfast or an à la carte dinner, Phulpatna promises to satisfy every palate in a comfortable and elegant setting.

What truly sets Toshali Sands apart as a luxury hotel in Puri is its exclusive access to a private beach at Balighai. Just a short, complimentary shuttle ride away, this secluded stretch of golden sand offers guests a serene and uncrowded environment to enjoy the pristine waters of the Bay of Bengal. This unique amenity ensures privacy and an undisturbed connection with the majestic coastline, a rare find in such a popular tourist destination.

Beyond these exceptional features, Toshali Sands maintains its 4-star hotel in puri status through elegantly appointed rooms, suites, cottages, and villas, each designed for comfort and luxury. Modern amenities, attentive service, and a blend of cultural aesthetics make every stay a truly memorable one. For travelers seeking a comprehensive and upscale resort experience in Puri, combining natural beauty, world-class facilities, and exclusive beach access, Toshali Sands stands as an unparalleled choice.

Toshali Sands Puri: A Sanctuary of Luxury and Nature

Toshali Sands, positioned majestically on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, stands out amongst the luxury hotels in Puri as a distinguished 4-star private resort. Spread over 30 acres of lush, verdant landscape, this ethnic village resort offers a serene and expansive retreat that seamlessly blends traditional Odia charm with modern, upscale amenities. For discerning travelers seeking an escape that combines the tranquility of nature with the comforts of a high-end stay, Toshali Sands provides an exceptional setting

The very essence of the resort lies in its extensive garden and grounds. It’s a true “Nature Escape,” where beautifully manicured lawns, tall, whispering Casuarina trees, and vibrant flora create a soothing and eco-friendly environment. Guests can stroll through this green wonderland, feeling miles away from the city’s hustle. The architectural design, inspired by the historical Konark Sun Temple and Puri Jagannath Temple, adds a cultural depth to the serene surroundings, particularly evident in the resort’s private villas and cottages which boast enchanting garden views.

Central to the resort’s leisure offerings is its inviting swimming pool. More than just a place for a refreshing dip, the outdoor pool acts as a lively hub for relaxation and family fun. Surrounded by the tranquility of the garden, it is complemented by a poolside bar, Madhuban, which is perfect for unwinding with a cocktail or enjoying a candlelit barbecue dinner under the stars. For families, the presence of a separate children’s pool ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for younger guests, cementing the resort’s status as a family-friendly destination.

The dining experience at Toshali Sands is anchored by its multi-cuisine restaurant, Phulpatna. Known for specializing in traditional and local Odia delicacies, the restaurant also caters to global palates with an eclectic mix of Indian, Continental, and Oriental flavors. The focus on fresh, and locally sourced seafood, highlights a dedication to quality and regional authenticity. The dining areas are designed for a comfortable, welcoming ambiance, making every meal a delightful experience, from the sumptuous daily buffet breakfast to leisurely dinners.

What truly elevates Toshali Sands to the category of a luxury hotel in Puri and a desirable private resort is its exclusive access to Balighai Beach, located just 2 km away. This dedicated beach area allows guests to enjoy the golden sands and calm waters of the Bay of Bengal in relative seclusion, a distinct advantage over the crowded main beaches. A complimentary beach shuttle service ensures easy access to this pristine coastal retreat.

Beyond its natural beauty and culinary delights, the 4-star hotel delivers on the promise of a luxury stay with a host of amenities. This includes a full-service Ayurvedic spa offering rejuvenating treatments, a well-equipped fitness center, and a variety of indoor and outdoor games like tennis and badminton. The spacious and elegantly designed accommodations—including deluxe rooms, suites, cottages, and villas—feature premium bedding, modern comforts, and separate sitting areas, ensuring maximum comfort.

In summary, Toshali Sands offers a compelling package for anyone visiting Puri. It is more than just accommodation; it is a holistic retreat where the vast garden and grounds provide a backdrop for relaxation, the swimming pool and its bar offer leisure and entertainment, and the ethnic restaurant serves up a memorable culinary journey. As a well-appointed 4-star hotel with a focus on luxury, privacy, and an authentic experience, Toshali Sands stands out as a top-tier private resort for both leisure and business travelers seeking peace and comfort on the Odisha coast.

Why Toshali Sands Puri is the Perfect Conference Destination

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, the choice of a conference destination can make or break the success of an event. A great venue goes beyond just offering a hall—it should inspire productivity, offer modern facilities, and create opportunities for delegates to relax and connect beyond business discussions. For organizations seeking such a venue in Eastern India, Toshali Sands Resort in Puri, Odisha emerges as the ideal choice. Let’s explore why Toshali Sands Puri is the perfect conference destination for your next business gathering.

A Strategic Location in the Heart of Odisha

One of the biggest advantages of Toshali Sands is its location on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, just 8 km from the sacred Jagannath Temple and 60 km from Bhubaneswar airport. This prime position ensures easy accessibility while keeping delegates away from the city rush. Surrounded by lush greenery and close to the serene Puri beach, the resort offers a refreshing escape—perfect for mixing business with leisure.

World-Class Conference Facilities

When it comes to hosting conferences, infrastructure matters. Toshali Sands boasts a range of state-of-the-art facilities to cater to both small and large gatherings:

  • Spacious Banquet Halls equipped with modern sound systems, projectors, and lighting.

  • Boardrooms and Meeting Spaces for private discussions and executive meetings.

  • Customizable Seating Arrangements such as theatre-style, classroom, or U-shape to suit different types of events.

  • High-Speed Internet & Audio-Visual Support to ensure seamless presentations and connectivity.

Whether you are planning a corporate workshop, annual general meeting, or a large-scale convention, Toshali Sands has the infrastructure and expertise to handle it flawlessly.

Comfortable Accommodation for Delegates

Conferences often bring together participants from different regions, making comfortable accommodation a top priority. At Toshali Sands, delegates can choose from luxury suites, cottages, and well-appointed rooms, all designed to provide the perfect balance of relaxation and productivity. With in-room amenities like Wi-Fi, work desks, and 24/7 room service, business travelers can stay connected while enjoying the comfort of a resort.

Culinary Experiences That Elevate Events

Good food brings people together, and Toshali Sands excels in delivering memorable culinary experiences. From multi-cuisine restaurants serving Indian, Continental, and Odia specialties to tailor-made conference menus, the resort ensures every dining experience adds value to your event. Coffee breaks, themed dinners, and outdoor catering options create the right atmosphere for networking and informal discussions among participants.

Team-Building and Recreation Beyond Meetings

A unique aspect of hosting conferences at Toshali Sands is the opportunity to combine business with recreation. After a day of meetings, delegates can unwind at the swimming pool, enjoy a spa treatment, or participate in team-building activities organized within the resort. Proximity to attractions like the Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, and Chilika Lake makes it easy to arrange cultural tours or excursions, giving participants a taste of Odisha’s heritage alongside their professional commitments.

Professional Event Management Support

What sets Toshali Sands apart is not just its facilities, but also its dedicated event management team. From planning stage to execution, the resort’s staff ensures every detail—seating, catering, technical support, and décor—is managed professionally. This allows organizations to focus on the content of their conference while leaving the logistics in expert hands.

Why Toshali Sands Puri is the Perfect Conference Destination

Choosing Toshali Sands means choosing a venue that blends professionalism with cultural richness and leisure. It is not just a place to hold meetings—it is a destination that fosters productivity, encourages networking, and leaves delegates with unforgettable memories. With its world-class conference facilities, comfortable accommodations, delectable dining, and unique recreational options, Toshali Sands stands out as the best conference destination in Odisha.

Make Your Next Conference Memorable

If you are planning a corporate event that goes beyond business and creates lasting impressions, Toshali Sands Resort in Puri is ready to host you. Transform your conference into a blend of work and celebration in a setting that inspires success.

???? Book your conference at Toshali Sands Puri today and experience why it is the perfect conference destination for organizations across India.

Best Wedding Destination: A Guide to Tying the Knot at Toshali Sands Resort, Puri, Odisha

Introduction: Why a Puri Destination Wedding?

  • Hook: Start with a romantic vision of a wedding near the sea in a serene, natural setting. Set the scene with a breathtaking moment, like a couple taking their vows with the sound of waves as their backdrop.
  • Thesis: Introduce Toshali Sands Resort as the perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and modern luxury. It’s a one-stop solution for a memorable destination wedding, offering a unique blend of heritage and hospitality.
  • Actionable Tip: Suggest the best time of year for a destination wedding in Puri (October to February) to ensure pleasant weather and a beautiful, clear sky.

Chapter 1: The Versatile Venues of Toshali Sands

  • Lush Green Lawns: Grand Open-Air Celebrations
    • Description: Talk about the resort’s expansive, well-maintained lawns, which are perfect for grand, open-air ceremonies and receptions. Highlight the natural greenery as a beautiful, vibrant backdrop that requires minimal additional decor.
    • Venue Capacity: Note the large capacity of the lawns, accommodating over 500 guests for a grand wedding setup.
    • Specific Examples:
      • A daylight Haldi ceremony on the main lawn with vibrant marigold and banana leaf decor.
      • For an evening reception, a “starlit” theme with fairy lights strung between trees and elegant canopies.
      • A Bollywood-themed Sangeet night with a dance floor, DJ, and LED lights.
    • Actionable Tip: Advise couples to consider a backup plan like a banquet hall, especially for monsoon or unexpected weather. The resort has spacious indoor halls to accommodate this, ensuring a seamless event.
  • The Poolside and Banquet Hall: Intimate and Elegant Functions
    • Description: Detail the resort’s poolside area for pre-wedding functions like a Mehendi or cocktail party. Describe the banquet hall as a sophisticated, air-conditioned option for the main ceremony or reception, offering privacy and a controlled environment.
    • Venue Capacity: Mention the banquet hall’s capacity (up to 200 guests seated and 300 floating).
    • Specific Examples:
      • A poolside Sangeet night with a live band and a floating floral arrangement.
      • A formal reception dinner inside the banquet hall decorated with crystal chandeliers and draped fabrics.
      • A “Coastal Elegance” theme with seashells, driftwood, and soft pastel shades.
    • Actionable Tip: Suggest coordinating the poolside event with the resort’s Madhuban Bar for seamless beverage service. For the banquet hall, recommend discussing seating arrangements to maximize the space for both a dance floor and guest tables.
  • The Exclusive Private Beach: Romantic Ceremonies by the Sea
    • Description: Highlight the unique access to a private, serene beach near Balighai Reserve Forest, offering a breathtaking setting for a romantic, intimate ceremony or a pre-wedding photoshoot. Emphasize the clean, secluded nature of the beach.
    • Specific Example: A simple, elegant beachside Varmala or Pheras ceremony with a mandap decorated with driftwood, shells, and white drapes, with the sound of the waves as a natural soundtrack.
    • Actionable Tip: Advise the couple to arrange a complimentary beach shuttle from the resort for guests, as the beach is a short drive away. Also, recommend checking with the resort’s wedding services team for permissions and logistics, including a Plan B for high tide.

Chapter 2: Culinary Delights and Guest Accommodations

  • Exceptional Catering Services: A Feast for the Senses
    • Description: Discuss the resort’s ability to provide a wide range of cuisine, from local Odia delicacies to a multi-cuisine spread (North Indian, Continental, Thai, Chinese, etc.). Mention the flexibility for customized menus to reflect the couple’s preferences.
    • Specific Examples:
      • A live counter serving local seafood like king crab and lobster.
      • A traditional feast on a plantain leaf with authentic Odia dishes.
      • Mention the in-house restaurant, Coastline Dhaba, for a more casual, open-air dining experience.
    • Actionable Tip: Suggest a menu tasting session with the resort’s chefs to finalize the spread. Inquire about the option to bring in external caterers for specific cultural dishes or for a specialized non-vegetarian spread.
  • Comfortable and Diverse Accommodations
    • Description: Mention the variety of accommodation options, including cottages with garden views, villas, and deluxe rooms, which ensure comfort for all guests. Highlight that the resort has a total of 114 rooms including 42 cottages and 13 villas.
    • Specific Example: Blocking a few of the cottages and villas for the wedding party and immediate family, offering them a secluded and spacious stay.
    • Actionable Tip: Encourage booking a block of rooms well in advance to secure discounted rates and ensure availability, especially during peak wedding season. Note that group booking discounts may be available.

Chapter 3: Planning and Partnering for a Seamless Experience

  • Professional Wedding Services: Your Dream Team
    • Description: Talk about the resort’s in-house wedding services and their team of professional planners who can assist with every detail, from decor to logistics. Mention that they are experienced in handling all types of ceremonies, from traditional to modern.
    • In-house vs. Outside Vendors: Mention that outside decorators and DJs are permitted, offering couples flexibility in their choices. The resort can provide an in-house DJ and alcohol.
    • Specific Example: Mention that the resort can help arrange traditional welcome ceremonies with garlands, tilak, and live dhol beats, adding a touch of authentic Odia culture.
    • Actionable Tip: Recommend creating a detailed checklist with the resort’s wedding planner to cover everything from guest transfers to vendor coordination, including a Plan B for unexpected events.
  • Activities and Amenities for Guests: A Mini-Vacation
    • Description: Explain that a destination wedding is a mini-vacation for guests. Highlight Toshali Sands’ amenities and proximity to local attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
    • Resort Amenities: Mention the outdoor swimming pool, spa (Ayurvedic massages), fitness center, and recreational activities.
    • Nearby Attractions: Suggest organizing a day trip to the Jagannath Temple for blessings, a visit to the Konark Sun Temple for a cultural experience, or a trip to Chilika Lake.
    • Actionable Tip: Create a customized itinerary or a welcome booklet for guests, detailing the planned activities and local attractions, including information about the resort’s free beach shuttle, bike rentals, and spa services.

Conclusion: A Perfect Beginning

  • Summary: Briefly recap why Toshali Sands is a top choice—its scenic venues, excellent catering, comfortable accommodations, professional staff, and the unique cultural and natural setting.
  • Final thought: End with a powerful statement about how Toshali Sands provides not just a venue, but an experience that turns a wedding into a cherished memory, a blend of divine blessings and a beautiful celebration.
  • Call to Action: Encourage readers to contact the resort to start planning their dream wedding and to check out their website for specific wedding packages.

10 Surprising Secrets About Toshali Sands Hotel You Never Knew!

 

  • It’s a Microcosm of Odisha’s Architecture and Art: Toshali Sands isn’t just a resort; it’s a living showcase of Odishan culture. The design of its cottages and villas is inspired by the ancient “YANTRA” diagrams and the architecture of the Lingaraj Temple. The interiors are decorated with authentic tribal Saora art, Pattachitra paintings, and handicrafts made from terracotta, wood, and metal, all sourced from local artisans.
  • The Private Beach Isn’t Exactly Private: While it’s marketed as a “private beach,” the stretch of Balighai beach is actually a public government property. What makes it exclusive is the resort’s dedicated access and complimentary shuttle service, which ensures it remains clean, less crowded, and reserved for guests, creating the feeling of a private escape.
  • It Was a Pioneer of Eco-Tourism: Long before it became a popular buzzword, Toshali Sands was built with an eco-friendly ethos. The resort was designed to harmonize with the Balukhanda Reserve Forest, using locally sourced laterite stones for walls and engaging nearby villagers in its construction. This commitment to sustainable tourism is a core part of its identity.
  • Its Landscape Is an Organic Farm: The resort’s lush greenery isn’t just for show. The property boasts over 1,600 coconut trees, a wide variety of fruit-bearing and ornamental trees, and a dedicated organic garden. The fresh produce from this garden is used in the resort’s kitchens, ensuring a farm-to-table experience for guests.
  • They Have a Hidden “Viceroy” Restaurant: While the main multi-cuisine restaurant, “Phulpatna,” is well-known, the resort also has a restaurant called “The Viceroy Restaurant” that dates back to the British era. This lesser-known dining spot offers a glimpse into the history of the property and its legacy.
  • They Are a Custodian of Local Folk Art: Toshali Sands actively works to preserve and promote age-old traditions of Odishan folk dance and art, some of which are on the verge of extinction. They often host local performances and cultural events for guests, providing an authentic taste of the region’s rich heritage.
  • It Has Puri’s Largest Conference Hall: While known for its natural setting, the resort is also a major corporate destination. It houses the largest conference hall in Puri, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, making it a surprising hub for business events and large-scale gatherings.
  • The Resort Has a Social Mission: Beyond hospitality, the Toshali Group has a strong community-focused initiative. The resort has adopted a school in a nearby village, providing special tuition for underprivileged students and sponsoring health camps, including immunization programs for the local community.
  • They Practice a “Green” Philosophy Behind the Scenes: The resort has an extensive list of green practices that guests might not notice at first glance. These include a ban on single-use plastics, using recycled paper, installing energy-saving devices, and relying on solar water heaters to reduce their environmental footprint.
  • It Offers a Unique “Full Moon” Experience: The resort’s villas are said to offer a “heavenly experience” during a full moon night. The elevated position and large windows provide a breathtaking view of the moonlit landscape and gardens, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a special occasion or a peaceful retreat.

 

Natural Beauty – Surrounded Toshali Sands Puri this destination offers breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Hotel Toshali Sands is located in Puri, a destination with a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural facts that make it a compelling place to visit. While the resort itself is a tranquil escape, its location provides a gateway to a world of fascinating local features.

Here are some key facts about Puri as a destination, which enhance the experience of staying at Toshali Sands:

1. A Major Hindu Pilgrimage Site: Puri is one of the four original Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India, making it a place of immense religious significance. The city’s economy is heavily dependent on its religious importance, with nearly 80% of its economy driven by the Jagannath Temple and its festivals.

2. The Enigmatic Jagannath Temple: The 12th-century Jagannath Temple is the heart of Puri. It’s not just a temple but a monument steeped in mystery and unique facts:

  • The Idols: The main deities of the temple—Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra—are made of wood and are replaced every 8, 12, or 19 years in a special ritual called Nabakalebara.
  • A-Gravity-Defying Flag: The flag on top of the temple’s dome is said to always fly in the direction opposite to the wind.
  • No Shadow: It’s a popular belief that the main temple has no shadow at any time of the day, a mystery that has puzzled many.
  • No-Fly Zone: Another popular belief is that no birds or planes fly over the temple’s main dome.
  • The “Mahaprasad” Miracle: The temple’s kitchen is the largest in the world, and it’s said that the same amount of food is cooked every day, yet it’s never wasted and is always enough to feed the thousands of pilgrims who visit. The food is also said to cook in a peculiar order, with the pot on top cooking first.

3. The Famous Rath Yatra: Puri is synonymous with the Rath Yatra or “Chariot Festival,” a grand spectacle that attracts millions of devotees from around the world. During the festival, the deities are taken out of the temple in massive, beautifully decorated wooden chariots and pulled through the streets by devotees. This festival alone is a huge part of the city’s cultural identity.

4. Unique Local Art and Culture: Puri is a center for traditional arts and crafts.

  • Pattachitra: This traditional art form involves intricate paintings on a piece of cloth, often depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
  • Sand Art: The Puri Beach is famously associated with internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, who creates stunning sculptures with a variety of themes.
  • Applique Art: The village of Pipli, a short drive from Puri, is renowned for its applique handicrafts.

5. A Natural Paradise on the Coast: Beyond its spiritual importance, Puri is a coastal destination with unique natural features.

  • Golden Beach: The Puri Beach is known for its expansive golden sands and the unique experience of the sea breeze.
  • Reverse Sea Breeze: In most coastal areas, the sea breeze blows towards the land during the day and from the land to the sea at night. In Puri, this phenomenon is said to happen in reverse.
  • Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary, located on the Marine Drive, is known for its casuarina forests and wildlife, including blackbucks. Toshali Sands is located right next to this sanctuary, adding to its “nature escape” feel.

Staying at Toshali Sands allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural tranquility of Puri while being perfectly positioned to explore these fascinating cultural and spiritual facts that make the destination so remarkable.

What are the best times to visit Chilika Lake for birdwatching?

The best time to visit Chilika Lake for birdwatching is during the winter months, from October to March.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the birdwatching season:

  • October – November (The Arrival): This is when the first waves of migratory birds start to arrive at the lake. You can witness the initial groups of species settling in after their long journeys.
  • December – January (Peak Season): This is the absolute best time for birdwatching. The lake is at its most spectacular with the highest diversity and population of birds. Over a million birds from places like the Caspian Sea, Siberia, and Central Asia can be seen at Chilika during this period.
  • February – March (Breeding Season): Many species begin their breeding activities, offering opportunities to observe courtship displays, nesting behaviors, and more. The birds start their homeward journey towards the end of March or early April as temperatures begin to rise.

Tips for a Great Birdwatching Trip:

  • Visit in the Early Morning: Birds are most active during the early morning hours, so an early start will significantly increase your chances of spotting a wide variety of species.
  • Hire a Local Guide: A local guide, especially in areas like Mangalajodi, can be invaluable. They have intimate knowledge of the birds’ behavior, their specific habitats, and where to find rare species.
  • Go to the Right Spots: While the entire lake is a bird haven, certain areas are particularly famous for birdwatching. Nalabana Bird Sanctuary (an island within the lake) and Mangalajodi (a village on the northern edge of the lake) are considered prime spots.
  • What to Expect: Look out for a vast array of migratory waterfowl, including flamingos, pintails, common teals, gadwalls, bar-headed geese, and many more. You might also spot resident birds like white-bellied sea eagles.

What are the nearby attractions to Toshali Sands?

Toshali Sands is strategically located on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, making it a great base for exploring the region’s most famous attractions. Here are some of the nearby places you can visit:

Within Puri

  • Shree Jagannath Temple: The most famous and revered landmark in Puri, this ancient temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is the center of the annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival). Toshali Sands is approximately 8-9 km away from the temple.
  • Puri Beach: Known for its golden sands and stunning sunsets, Puri Beach is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, camel and horse rides, and enjoying the local atmosphere. It’s about 10 km from the resort.
  • Raghurajpur Art Village: A heritage crafts village where every family is involved in creating traditional artwork, most notably the Pattachitra paintings. It’s a great place to witness local artistry and buy unique souvenirs, located about 14 km away.
  • Balighai Beach: This beach is very close to Toshali Sands, at a distance of only about 3 km. It’s known for being less crowded than Puri Beach, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil walk.

Day Trips from Puri

  • Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple is a magnificent architectural marvel shaped like a giant chariot. It’s located on the Marine Drive, about 30-35 km from Toshali Sands.
  • Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lake is a popular destination for its migrating birds and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. It is approximately 50-60 km from the resort.
  • Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: Located between Puri and Konark, this sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered blackbuck. It’s a great spot for a nature walk or a safari.
  • Dhauli Hill: An important Buddhist site located near Bhubaneswar. It is known for its Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) and the ancient rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka. This is a longer drive, about 55 km from the resort.