How to Reach Jaipur from Bhubaneswar – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Jaipur from Bhubaneswar by train, bus, car, or flight with practical tips on travel time, fares, and local transport options.
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, lies in eastern India and is known for its rich history and temples. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is famous for its royal palaces and vibrant culture. Traveling between these two cities covers a distance of about 1,600 kilometers across diverse landscapes.
This route is popular among tourists and business travelers alike, connecting eastern and northwestern India. This guide will help you understand the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.
Getting from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur – Main Options
Train
Train travel is a popular and economical choice for this long-distance journey. It offers a chance to see the countryside and experience Indian rail culture.
Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) connects to Jaipur Junction (JP) via several trains, covering around 1,600 km in 26 to 32 hours depending on the service chosen.
Popular trains include the Bhubaneswar–Jaipur Express and the Howrah–Jaipur Superfast, with fares ranging from INR 600 for sleeper class to INR 2,500 for AC 2-tier.
Trains run 3 to 4 times a week, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is advised, especially during festival seasons like Diwali and Holi when trains get crowded.
Facilities vary by train; some have pantry cars offering meals, but carrying snacks and water is recommended for comfort during long travel.
Delays can occur during monsoon due to track maintenance or fog in northern states during winter mornings, so plan buffer time for connections.
Bus
Bus travel is less common for this long route but possible for budget travelers who prefer road journeys and want to explore towns en route.
Direct buses from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur are rare; most travelers take a combination of buses via major hubs like Raipur or Nagpur, increasing travel time to over 36 hours.
State transport buses like Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operate on parts of this route with fares between INR 1,200 and INR 2,000 depending on bus type.
Volvo or deluxe buses offer more comfort but are limited; sleeper buses are not common on this route, so expect basic seating arrangements.
Frequent stops at highway dhabas and toll plazas on NH 53 and NH 48 provide food and restroom facilities, but long waits can occur during peak holiday seasons.
Bus travel is not recommended during monsoon due to slippery roads and possible landslides in some areas, especially near the Eastern Ghats.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur offers flexibility and the chance to explore smaller towns and attractions on the way.
The route mainly follows NH 53, NH 44, and NH 48, covering approximately 1,600 km, which takes around 28 to 30 hours of driving time without long breaks.
Frequent toll plazas on NH 53 and NH 48 require cash or FASTag payments; budget around INR 1,200 to INR 1,500 for tolls one way.
Rest stops with dhabas and petrol pumps are available every 50 to 70 km, but plan overnight halts in cities like Raipur or Nagpur for safety and rest.
Driving during daylight is safer due to wildlife crossings and poor lighting on some highway stretches; avoid night driving in rural areas.
Monsoon season can cause waterlogging and slippery roads, so check weather and road conditions before starting your journey.
Flight
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Bhubaneswar and Jaipur, especially for business travelers or those short on time.
Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) offers direct flights to Jaipur International Airport (JAI) operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India, with flight duration around 2.5 hours.
Flight fares typically range from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000 one way, depending on how early you book and the season.
Flights are frequent, with 3 to 5 flights per week; booking in advance on airline websites or apps like MakeMyTrip ensures better prices.
Airport transfers in Bhubaneswar and Jaipur are well served by prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber, making last-mile connectivity easy and safe.
During peak festival seasons, flights may get fully booked or prices may surge, so plan and book early to avoid inconvenience.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur, helping you organize your journey smoothly.
Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Flights save time but cost more; trains balance cost and experience.
Step 2: Book your tickets early using IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking helps secure seats and better prices, especially during holidays.
Step 3: Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. Indian trains and buses may have limited charging points, so be prepared.
Step 4: Reach your departure point (railway station, bus depot, or airport) at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.
Step 5: Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and fair transport to and from stations and airports.
Step 6: Keep your ID and ticket handy throughout the journey as Indian transport authorities often check them during travel.
Practical Travel Tips
Always carry a refillable water bottle and use trusted sources to avoid waterborne illnesses common during long Indian journeys.
When traveling by train, book lower berth tickets if possible for easier access and comfort, especially during overnight trips.
Use official IRCTC or airline apps for ticket booking to avoid scams and get real-time updates on delays or cancellations.
In cities, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs over hailing street taxis to ensure safety and avoid overcharging.
Pack light and secure your luggage with locks; crowded trains and buses can have pickpocket risks, especially during festivals.
During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts as heavy rains can disrupt road and rail services on this route.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to travel from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.
Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season from June to September as heavy rains can cause delays and unsafe road conditions. Also, major festivals like Diwali and Holi can cause crowding and higher prices.
Avoid travel during the Diwali festival (October-November) as trains and flights are heavily booked and prices surge.
Winter fog in northern India, especially in Rajasthan, can delay trains and flights in December and January mornings.
Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic and reach your destination with daylight remaining for local transport.
Summer months (April-June) can be very hot, making daytime travel uncomfortable, especially by road.
Arrival at Jaipur & What to Expect
Upon arrival at Jaipur, you will find good connectivity options to reach your accommodation or explore the city. Jaipur Junction railway station and Jaipur International Airport are well connected to the city center.
Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at both the airport and railway station. Auto-rickshaws are also common but agree on fares before starting your ride. Popular areas to stay include the Pink City center, MI Road, and near the railway station for easy access.
Conclusion
For most travelers, flying is the most efficient way to reach Jaipur from Bhubaneswar, saving significant time and offering comfort. However, trains provide a budget-friendly and culturally rich experience, while driving offers flexibility for those who enjoy road trips.
Plan your journey by booking tickets early, packing smartly, and choosing travel times that avoid peak traffic and weather challenges. With these tips, you can confidently make your way from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur and enjoy the diverse experiences both cities offer.