Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is a bustling hub known for its rich history and temples. Dwarka, located in Gujarat, is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and a popular spiritual destination. Traveling from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka is a favored route for pilgrims, tourists, and those seeking a cultural experience.

This guide covers all major travel options between Bhubaneswar and Dwarka, including trains, buses, flights, and road trips. You will find detailed information on timings, routes, costs, and tips to plan your journey efficiently and comfortably.

Getting from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a practical and popular choice for this long-distance route, connecting eastern and western India. Indian Railways offers several options, though direct trains are limited, so planning with connections is essential.

• Key stations:

  Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) is well connected to major cities. Dwarka Railway Station (DWK) lies on the Western Railway network. Direct trains are rare; most routes require a change at Ahmedabad or Rajkot.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey typically takes 30 to 36 hours depending on the train and route. Ticket prices range from ₹600 for sleeper class to ₹2,500 for AC classes. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains like the Bhubaneswar–Ahmedabad Express and Ahmedabad–Dwarka Passenger serve parts of the route. Sleeper and AC coaches offer varying comfort; book AC for overnight travel to rest better.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Navratri in Dwarka when trains are crowded. Booking at least 2-3 weeks ahead helps secure seats.

• Scenic and practical notes:

  The route passes through diverse landscapes, including the forests of Odisha and the plains of Gujarat. Carry snacks and water, as station amenities vary along the way.

• Challenges:

  Long travel times and train delays are common. Last-mile connectivity from Dwarka station to the city center is manageable via auto-rickshaws or prepaid taxis.

By Bus

Bus travel between Bhubaneswar and Dwarka is less common due to the long distance and multiple state borders. However, it can be an option for budget travelers willing to break the journey into segments.

• Route details:

  There are no direct buses covering the entire distance. Travelers usually take buses from Bhubaneswar to Ahmedabad or Rajkot, then switch to local buses or taxis to reach Dwarka.

• Duration and cost:

  The total bus journey can exceed 40 hours, with ticket costs around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 depending on operators and classes. Overnight buses are available on some legs.

• Service quality:

  State transport buses like OSRTC and GSRTC operate on parts of the route. Private Volvo buses run between major cities, offering more comfort but limited availability.

• Travel tips:

  Break the journey at Ahmedabad or Rajkot for rest. Booking tickets online via state transport websites or private portals is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Challenges:

  Multiple transfers and long hours make this option tiring. Road conditions vary, and monsoon season can cause delays on highways.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and flexibility. The route covers approximately 1,800 kilometers across several states.

• Route overview:

  The common route follows NH16 from Bhubaneswar to Kolkata, then NH19 and NH48 through Maharashtra and Gujarat to Dwarka. The journey passes through cities like Raipur, Nagpur, and Ahmedabad.

• Distance and time:

  The drive takes around 30 to 35 hours, best split over 2-3 days. Plan overnight stops in cities like Nagpur or Ahmedabad for rest and sightseeing.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly well maintained, with toll plazas en route. Fuel stations and eateries are available but plan refueling carefully in remote stretches.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid night driving in rural areas due to wildlife and poor lighting. Use GPS navigation and keep emergency contacts handy. Carry water and snacks for long stretches.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near metro cities and toll costs can add to travel time and expenses. Weather conditions like monsoon rains may affect road safety.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Bhubaneswar and Dwarka, though no direct flights connect the two cities. Travelers must take connecting flights via major hubs.

• Airports involved:

  Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) serves the origin. The nearest airport to Dwarka is Jamnagar Airport (JGA), about 130 km away, or Rajkot Airport (RAJ), approximately 130 km from Dwarka.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Flights from Bhubaneswar to Ahmedabad or Mumbai take around 3 to 4 hours. Connecting flights or road transfers to Dwarka add 3-4 hours. Airfares range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Frequency and airlines:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate on these routes. Frequent flights are available to Ahmedabad, a major gateway to Dwarka.

• Travel tips:

  Book flights well in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons. From Ahmedabad, hire a taxi or take a bus to Dwarka, which takes about 6-7 hours by road.

• Challenges:

  No direct flights mean additional travel time and coordination. Road travel from the nearest airports to Dwarka can be long and tiring.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka efficiently, covering booking, transfers, and local travel.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, flight, or bus, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Prepare for long travel:

  Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and chargers. Carry a neck pillow and light blanket for overnight train or bus journeys.

• Reach the station/airport early:

  Arrive at Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Airport at least 1 hour before departure to handle security and boarding smoothly, especially during peak seasons.

• Plan transfers carefully:

  If traveling by train, check connecting trains at Ahmedabad or Rajkot. For flights, arrange taxis or buses from the airport to Dwarka in advance.

• Use prepaid taxis or app cabs:

  On arrival in Dwarka, use prepaid counters or Ola/Uber for safe and reliable local transport. Avoid unmetered autos to prevent overcharging.

• Stay hydrated and rested:

  Long journeys can be exhausting. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and rest well to enjoy your time in Dwarka fully.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Use the IRCTC app or website to book train tickets and check real-time train status. Opt for Tatkal booking if traveling on short notice but be prepared for higher prices.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during travel to prevent stomach issues. Buy meals from trusted vendors at major stations or airports.

• Local commute in Dwarka:

  Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances. For longer trips, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safety and fair pricing.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and stations. Use lockable bags and keep valuables close to you.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months (July-September) due to possible train delays and slippery roads. Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting visibility on highways.

• Safety precautions:

  Stay alert at crowded places and avoid isolated areas at night. Keep emergency contacts saved and share your travel itinerary with family or friends.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka depends on weather and local festivals. Planning your trip during favorable conditions ensures comfort and safety.

Monsoon season can cause delays and slippery roads, while winters offer pleasant weather for sightseeing. Avoid major festival weekends to escape crowding and inflated prices.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in metro cities like Bhubaneswar and Ahmedabad, especially mornings (8-10 AM) and evenings (5-8 PM).

• Travel outside the monsoon season (July to September) to minimize weather-related disruptions on roads and railways.

• Depart early in the morning or late at night for trains and flights to avoid city traffic and enjoy smoother journeys.

• Plan around major festivals like Navratri in Dwarka, when accommodation and transport are in high demand.

Arrival at Dwarka & What to Expect

Dwarka welcomes travelers with its spiritual ambiance and coastal charm. Upon arrival at Dwarka Railway Station or bus stand, you will find several transport options to reach your accommodation or pilgrimage sites.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station, and app-based cabs like Ola operate in the city. Auto-rickshaws are plentiful for short distances. Popular stay areas include near Dwarkadhish Temple and along the coast for easy access to major attractions.

Conclusion

Among the various options, train travel combined with a connecting train or taxi from Ahmedabad or Rajkot offers a balance of cost and convenience for most travelers. Flights provide speed but require additional road travel to reach Dwarka.

With proper planning and early bookings, you can enjoy a smooth journey from Bhubaneswar to Dwarka. This guide equips you with practical tips and detailed options to confidently embark on your spiritual or leisure trip.