Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is located in the eastern state of West Bengal, while Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, lies approximately 440 kilometers to the south. This route is popular among tourists, business travelers, and weekend visitors keen to explore Bhubaneswar’s ancient temples and vibrant culture.

This guide covers all main transport options from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You’ll find detailed travel times, ticket costs, and insider tips to help you plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Bhubaneswar from Kolkata. Indian Railways offers multiple daily trains connecting Howrah and Bhubaneswar stations, making it convenient for all budgets.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Howrah Junction (HWH) or Kolkata Station (KOAA) and arrive at Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS), which is centrally located.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey typically takes 6 to 8 hours, covering around 440 km. Ticket prices range from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1,200 for AC 3-tier, with higher classes available.

• Frequency and comfort:

  There are over 10 trains daily, including superfast options like the Shalimar–Bhubaneswar SF Express. AC coaches offer comfortable seating, while sleeper class is budget-friendly.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets via IRCTC or authorized agents at least a week in advance, especially during festivals or holidays to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Scenic route and timing:

  The train passes through lush green landscapes and small towns. Early morning or evening trains offer pleasant weather and views.

• Challenges:

  Trains can be crowded during peak seasons, and delays of 15-30 minutes are common. Arrive early to secure your berth and avoid rush.

Bus

Bus travel is a practical option for budget travelers and those who prefer road journeys. Both government and private operators run buses between Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

• Departure points:

  Buses leave from Kolkata’s Esplanade Bus Terminal and CTC Bus Stand, heading towards Bhubaneswar’s Baramunda Bus Stand.

• Duration and fares:

  The trip takes approximately 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹900 depending on bus type.

• Types of buses:

  Options include AC Volvo, deluxe, and non-AC sleeper buses. Volvo buses provide better comfort for overnight travel.

• Route and highways:

  Buses travel via NH16, a well-maintained highway with tolls and multiple rest stops like Kharagpur and Balasore.

• Booking and frequency:

  Tickets can be booked online via MSRTC or private portals like RedBus. Buses run frequently, especially in the evening and night.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Kolkata and Bhubaneswar can cause delays. Night buses may be tiring for some travelers.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route is well-connected by national highways and suitable for self-drive or taxi hires.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH16, covering around 440 km. The drive usually takes 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  NH16 is a four-lane highway with good surface quality and multiple toll plazas. Fuel stations and eateries like Indian Oil outlets and roadside dhabas are available.

• Car rentals and taxis:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Kolkata with providers like Zoomcar or Revv. Alternatively, hire a private taxi for a one-way trip.

• Rest stops and sightseeing:

  Popular stops include Kharagpur and Balasore, where you can stretch and grab meals. Consider visiting Chandipur beach near Balasore if time permits.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery patches. Start early morning to avoid Kolkata’s city traffic.

• Challenges:

  Urban traffic congestion at both ends and occasional roadworks on NH16 may cause delays.

Flight

Flights between Kolkata and Bhubaneswar offer the fastest travel option, ideal for business travelers or those short on time. Both cities have well-connected airports with multiple daily flights.

• Airports:

  Flights depart from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata and arrive at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar.

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes about 1 hour. Ticket prices vary from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Carriers like IndiGo, AirAsia, and Alliance Air operate multiple daily flights, offering flexibility.

• Booking tips:

  Book at least 2 weeks in advance for cheaper fares. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip.

• Airport transfers:

  Both airports have prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for easy transfers to city centers.

• Challenges:

  Airport security and check-in can take time, so arrive 2 hours before departure. Flight delays are rare but possible during monsoon.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least a week in advance via IRCTC, RedBus, or airline portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack smartly:

  Carry light luggage with essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. For train or bus journeys, bring a neck pillow and light blanket for comfort.

• Reach departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah Station or the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus bay.

• Use prepaid or app-based cabs:

  On arrival in Bhubaneswar, use prepaid taxis at the railway station or airport, or book Ola/Uber for safe and fair-priced rides.

• Plan local commute:

  Bhubaneswar has good local buses and auto-rickshaws. For sightseeing, consider renting a bike or hiring a taxi for the day.

• Stay informed about weather:

  Check forecasts before travel, especially during monsoon, to adjust plans and avoid delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid boarding overcrowded coaches. Use luggage locks and stay alert during stops.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially for bus and train journeys. Avoid street food near stations unless trusted.

• Booking strategies:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC or RedBus for buses to avoid scams. Check cancellation policies before booking.

• Local commute apps:

  Download Ola and Uber apps for convenient rides in both Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. Prepaid taxis are also reliable at major stations.

• Luggage handling:

  Label your bags clearly and keep valuables in carry-on bags. At stations, use authorized porters if needed.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads on NH16. Avoid night driving during heavy rains and check train/bus status online.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar is during the cooler months from October to March, when weather is pleasant and road/train conditions are optimal. Avoid peak festival weekends like Durga Puja and Diwali due to heavy traffic and ticket demand.

Summer months can be hot and humid, while monsoon brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel. Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and provide a smoother journey.

• Avoid traveling during Durga Puja and major festivals when trains and roads are crowded.

• Monsoon (June to September) can cause delays; check weather and transport status before departure.

• Start journeys early morning (6–8 AM) to bypass Kolkata’s rush hour traffic.

• Evening trains and flights are preferable for comfortable travel and better availability.

Arrival at Bhubaneswar & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Biju Patnaik Airport, travelers find well-organized facilities and easy access to the city center. The railway station is located near the heart of the city, while the airport lies about 5 km from downtown.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are readily available for safe transfers. Auto-rickshaws and city buses also connect major parts of Bhubaneswar. Popular stay areas include Unit 1 and Jaydev Vihar, close to major attractions like the Lingaraj Temple and Odisha State Museum.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most balanced choice for comfort, cost, and convenience between Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. Frequent trains, affordable fares, and scenic routes make it ideal for most travelers.

However, flights offer unmatched speed for business travelers, while buses and self-drive provide flexibility for budget and exploratory trips. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey and enjoy the rich cultural experiences awaiting in Bhubaneswar.