Puri and Bhubaneswar are two prominent cities in Odisha, located about 60 kilometers apart. Puri is famous for its Jagannath Temple and pristine beaches, while Bhubaneswar is the state capital known for its rich history and modern amenities. This route is popular among tourists and pilgrims who often visit both cities in a single trip.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Puri to Bhubaneswar, including trains, buses, cars, and taxis. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly option or a comfortable ride, you’ll find detailed information to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Puri to Bhubaneswar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach Bhubaneswar from Puri. The two cities are well connected by frequent passenger and express trains, making it ideal for daily commuters and tourists alike.

• Key stations:

  Puri Railway Station (PURI) and Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) are the main hubs. Both stations are centrally located with easy access to local transport.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, covering roughly 60 km. Ticket prices range from ₹20 for unreserved seating to ₹150 for AC chair cars.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run every 30 minutes to an hour starting early morning till late evening. Options include passenger trains, MEMU, and some express trains with reserved seating.

• Booking tips:

  For reserved classes, book tickets via IRCTC or at station counters in advance, especially during festivals like Rath Yatra when demand spikes.

• Scenic route and views:

  The train route passes through lush green fields and small villages, offering a pleasant glimpse of rural Odisha.

• Challenges:

  Unreserved compartments can get crowded during peak hours; plan to board early to secure a seat.

Bus

Buses provide a flexible and affordable option to travel between Puri and Bhubaneswar. Both government and private operators run frequent services on this route.

• Bus terminals:

  Puri New Bus Stand and Bhubaneswar Baramunda Bus Stand are the main points for boarding and alighting.

• Duration and fares:

  The bus journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹100 depending on the bus type.

• Types of buses:

  Options include Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) buses, private deluxe buses, and local non-AC buses.

• Frequency:

  Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes from early morning till late night, making it easy to find a suitable departure time.

• Route and stops:

  Most buses take NH16, passing through Konark and other small towns, with multiple stops en route for refreshments and breaks.

• Considerations:

  Traffic congestion near Bhubaneswar can delay buses during peak hours; plan accordingly.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Puri to Bhubaneswar is straightforward and offers the freedom to explore en route. The road is well maintained and suitable for self-drive enthusiasts or those hiring taxis.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH316 and NH16, covering about 60 km in approximately 1.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly smooth and well-signposted, with multiple toll plazas. Fuel stations and eateries are available along the way.

• Car rentals:

  Several car rental services and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber operate between the cities, offering options from hatchbacks to SUVs.

• Scenic stops:

  You can take detours to visit Konark Sun Temple or Chilika Lake, making the drive more enjoyable.

• Traffic tips:

  Avoid driving during peak office hours in Bhubaneswar to bypass city traffic jams.

• Parking:

  Bhubaneswar has ample parking near major attractions and hotels, but Puri can get crowded during festivals.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab is a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel between Puri and Bhubaneswar, especially for groups or families.

• Booking options:

  You can book prepaid taxis at Puri railway station or use app-based services like Ola and Uber for fixed fares and transparent pricing.

• Cost and duration:

  Taxi fares typically range from ₹800 to ₹1,200 depending on vehicle type, with a journey time of around 1.5 hours.

• Comfort and convenience:

  Taxis offer door-to-door service, air conditioning, and the flexibility to stop en route for sightseeing or refreshments.

• Availability:

  Taxis are readily available throughout the day, but pre-booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

• Local driver knowledge:

  Experienced drivers can suggest scenic detours and help avoid traffic bottlenecks.

• Payment tips:

  Always confirm the fare before starting and prefer digital payments for safety and convenience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train or bus, secure your seats in advance via IRCTC or OSRTC websites, especially during festivals or weekends.

• Reach the station or bus stand early:

  Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and to find your platform or bus easily.

• Pack light and carry essentials:

  Keep water, snacks, and a power bank handy, especially if you choose bus travel which can be less predictable.

• Use prepaid or app-based taxis on arrival:

  At Bhubaneswar station or bus stand, opt for prepaid counters or Ola/Uber to avoid haggling and ensure safety.

• Plan local commute in Bhubaneswar:

  Use auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs to reach your hotel or attractions efficiently.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers for local taxi services, railway enquiry, and your accommodation for quick assistance.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains:

  Always keep your belongings close, especially in unreserved compartments. Use lockable bags and avoid traveling late at night alone.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks from Puri; train pantry services are limited on this short route.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and OSRTC online portals for bus bookings to avoid scalpers and last-minute hassles.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate reliably in Bhubaneswar and Puri, providing safe and affordable rides with upfront pricing.

• Luggage handling:

  If traveling by bus, keep your luggage close and avoid placing valuables in undercarriage compartments.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to waterlogging; prefer trains or taxis over buses for safety.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel between Puri and Bhubaneswar is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail journeys comfortable.

Avoid traveling during major festivals like Rath Yatra in Puri when transport options get crowded and prices surge.

• Avoid peak office hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) in Bhubaneswar to skip traffic jams.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause delays on roads due to heavy rains and occasional flooding.

• Early morning departures offer less crowded trains and buses and cooler temperatures for road travel.

Arrival at Bhubaneswar & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Baramunda Bus Stand, travelers find well-organized facilities with easy access to local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are available at both locations.

Bhubaneswar offers a range of accommodation options near the station and city center. Popular attractions like Lingaraj Temple and Udayagiri Caves are a short drive away. Auto-rickshaws and Ola/Uber provide convenient last-mile connectivity.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most efficient and economical way to reach Bhubaneswar from Puri. Frequent services, affordable fares, and comfortable seating make it ideal for most travelers.

For those seeking flexibility and comfort, hiring a taxi or driving offers the best experience with scenic stops en route. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey and enjoy the rich cultural and natural beauty Odisha has to offer.