Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha, located in eastern India. Konark is a famous town about 65 kilometers southeast of Bhubaneswar, known for its historic Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Many travelers visit Konark as a day trip or short stay from Bhubaneswar to explore its rich cultural heritage and coastal beauty.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Bhubaneswar to Konark. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, including travel times, costs, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Bhubaneswar to Konark – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Bhubaneswar and Konark is limited but can be convenient for those who prefer railways. The nearest railway station to Konark is Puri, which is well connected to Bhubaneswar.

• The Bhubaneswar Railway Station is a major junction with frequent trains to Puri, about 44 km from Konark, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours and costing between ₹50 and ₹150 for second class and sleeper classes.

• From Puri, you can take a local bus or taxi to Konark, which is about 20 km away, adding another 30 to 45 minutes and costing ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the mode.

• Train frequency is high between Bhubaneswar and Puri, with trains running every 30 to 60 minutes during the day, making it easy to plan your onward journey.

• During peak tourist seasons and festivals, trains can be crowded; booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to ensure availability and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Monsoon season may cause minor delays on this route, so allow extra travel time if you are traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel from Bhubaneswar to Konark. Both government and private buses operate on this route regularly.

• Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) runs direct buses from Bhubaneswar Central Bus Stand to Konark, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours over a distance of 65 km, with fares ranging from ₹70 to ₹150 depending on bus type.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate frequently, offering slightly faster travel but with variable comfort and safety standards; fares are usually ₹100 to ₹200.

• The main highway used is NH316, which is well maintained and passes through scenic rural areas, but can get congested during weekends and holidays.

• Bus frequency is high during the day, with buses leaving every 30 to 60 minutes from early morning until evening, but fewer options are available late at night.

• During the monsoon, road conditions may worsen, and occasional delays can occur due to waterlogging or traffic jams near tourist spots.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bhubaneswar to Konark is a comfortable and flexible option, especially if you want to explore the region at your own pace.

• The distance is about 65 km via NH316, and the drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are widely available in Bhubaneswar, with daily rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on the vehicle type and season.

• The route is mostly smooth with toll plazas on NH316; toll fees are minimal but should be kept in mind when budgeting your trip.

• There are several good rest stops and eateries along the highway, including local dhabas serving Odia cuisine, ideal for breaks during the drive.

• Driving during early morning or late afternoon helps avoid city traffic in Bhubaneswar and tourist crowds near Konark, making the journey more pleasant.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Bhubaneswar to Konark is convenient for travelers who prefer door-to-door service without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate between Bhubaneswar and Konark, with fares typically between ₹1500 and ₹2500 for a one-way trip.

• Taxi services offer flexibility to stop at nearby attractions such as Chandrabhaga Beach or the Konark Museum along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Booking a taxi in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons and weekends to ensure availability and fair pricing.

• The journey time by taxi is around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and route taken, with drivers familiar with local shortcuts and road conditions.

• Taxi drivers often assist with local sightseeing and can recommend good places to eat or shop, adding value to your trip beyond just transport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Bhubaneswar to Konark for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or OSRTC websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute queues, especially during holidays and weekends.

• Arrive at Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay comfortably and avoid rushing.

• If traveling by car or taxi, confirm your booking and driver details a day before, and check the vehicle condition to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

• Carry water, snacks, and a mobile charger for the road, as some stretches between Bhubaneswar and Konark have limited food options and mobile network fluctuations.

• On arrival at Konark, use prepaid taxis or auto-rickshaws for local travel to the Sun Temple and nearby attractions, as parking near the monument can be limited.

• Plan your return trip considering local transport timings or taxi availability, especially if you intend to return the same day to Bhubaneswar.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items while traveling on buses or trains, as crowded conditions can increase pickpocket risks.

• Drink only bottled water and eat at reputed eateries or dhabas to avoid stomach issues common with roadside food in unfamiliar areas.

• Book tickets at least a day in advance during weekends and festival seasons to avoid sold-out situations and inflated prices.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Konark; always agree on the fare beforehand or insist on the meter to avoid overcharging.

• Pack light luggage as some buses and trains have limited space, and carrying heavy bags can be difficult during last-mile travel in Konark.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather updates as heavy rains can cause roadblocks or slow traffic on NH316.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bhubaneswar to Konark is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Traffic conditions vary with festivals and holidays, so planning your trip on weekdays or outside major festivals will help avoid crowds and delays.

• Avoid traveling during major Odisha festivals like Rath Yatra in Puri, as roads and trains become crowded, and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Monsoon months from June to September may cause slippery roads and occasional flooding on NH316, so check weather forecasts before traveling.

• Early morning departures help you avoid Bhubaneswar city traffic and reach Konark before midday heat or tourist rush.

• Late afternoon travel is also good to enjoy sunset views near the Sun Temple and cooler temperatures on the return journey.

Arrival at Konark & What to Expect

When you arrive in Konark, you will find a small town with limited public transport options. Most visitors head straight to the Sun Temple, which is about 3 km from the main bus stand and taxi points.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws, which are affordable and convenient for short distances. Prepaid taxis are available but less common. Many hotels and guesthouses are located near the temple and along the main road, offering easy access to attractions.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Konark from Bhubaneswar depends on your preferences. For budget travelers, buses and trains combined with local transport offer affordable options. If you prefer comfort and flexibility, hiring a taxi or self-driving is ideal. Planning your trip with advance bookings and considering seasonal conditions will make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

With this guide, you can confidently choose the best transport mode for your needs, understand travel times and costs, and prepare for a memorable visit to Konark’s historic and cultural sites. Safe travels and enjoy your trip!