Puri is a famous coastal city in Odisha known for its temples and beaches. Nandankanan is a well-known zoological park and botanical garden located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha's capital. Many travelers visit both places as part of their Odisha trip.

This guide explains how to travel from Puri to Nandankanan using different transport modes. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Puri to Nandankanan – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route. Puri and Bhubaneswar are well connected by frequent trains, and Nandankanan is close to Bhubaneswar station.

• The distance between Puri and Bhubaneswar is about 60 km, and trains take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on class.

• Major trains run frequently from Puri Railway Station to Bhubaneswar Railway Station, including passenger and express trains, offering multiple options throughout the day.

• Bhubaneswar station is about 15 km from Nandankanan Zoological Park; you can take a taxi or local bus from there, which takes around 30 to 40 minutes.

• Train services are generally reliable, but monsoon season can cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or at the station in advance is recommended, especially during festivals like Rath Yatra when Puri gets crowded.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and affordable way to travel from Puri to Bhubaneswar, with onward transport to Nandankanan. State-run and private buses operate on this route.

• MSRTC and Odisha State Road Transport Corporation run regular buses from Puri Bus Stand to Bhubaneswar New Bus Stand, covering 60 km in about 2 to 2.5 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹40 to ₹100 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo services.

• From Bhubaneswar bus stand, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or local bus to Nandankanan, which is about 15 km away; autos cost around ₹150 to ₹200.

• Buses can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so boarding early is advisable to secure a seat and avoid standing for long durations.

• Road conditions on NH16 are generally good, but monsoon rains may cause traffic slowdowns near Puri and Bhubaneswar outskirts.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Puri to Nandankanan is convenient if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is well connected by national highways and state roads.

• The distance by road is approximately 75 km via NH316 and NH16, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be hired from Puri; fares for a one-way taxi range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• The route passes through scenic areas and towns like Khurda, with several roadside eateries and fuel stations for breaks.

• Traffic is usually light except during peak hours in Bhubaneswar; toll plazas on NH16 may add small charges around ₹50 to ₹100.

• Driving during early morning or late evening avoids city traffic and offers a smoother journey.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Puri to Nandankanan is a hassle-free option for travelers who want door-to-door service without driving.

• Ola and Uber operate in Puri and Bhubaneswar, but availability in Puri may be limited; pre-booking a taxi for the full trip is recommended.

• Taxi fares generally range from ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 for a one-way trip, including waiting time if you plan to visit Nandankanan and return the same day.

• Taxi drivers often act as informal guides and can suggest good stops or eateries on the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Booking through local travel agents or hotel reception can secure reliable taxis with fixed fares, avoiding surprises.

• During festivals or holidays, taxi availability may reduce and prices can surge, so booking in advance is wise.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Puri to Nandankanan for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip smoothly.

• Book your train or bus ticket in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to avoid last-minute rush and ensure seat availability.

• Reach Puri Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid confusion.

• Upon arrival at Bhubaneswar, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs at the station for a safe and fixed-fare ride to Nandankanan.

• Carry a small bottle of water and snacks for the short journey, especially if traveling during summer or monsoon when delays can happen.

• Check the opening hours of Nandankanan Zoological Park and plan your departure accordingly to maximize your visit time.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps or directions handy, as network coverage may fluctuate near forested areas around Nandankanan.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs in Bhubaneswar to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during your onward journey to Nandankanan.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during travel and avoid street food at bus stands or stations to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Book train and bus tickets well in advance during peak seasons like Rath Yatra or Durga Puja, as Puri and Bhubaneswar attract many tourists.

• Local transport options near Nandankanan include shared autos and cycle rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

• Pack light but carry rain gear during monsoon months (July to September) as sudden showers can disrupt travel plans and make roads slippery.

• Keep your valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places like Puri station or bus stand to avoid pickpocketing, especially during festivals.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Puri to Nandankanan is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Avoid monsoon months for smoother travel.

Peak festival periods in Puri, such as Rath Yatra in July, can cause heavy crowds and transport delays, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during early morning fog in December and January as visibility on highways near Bhubaneswar can be low, increasing travel time.

• Monsoon rains from June to September may cause waterlogging on some roads and occasional train delays between Puri and Bhubaneswar.

• Midday departures avoid city traffic jams in Bhubaneswar, especially on weekdays when office traffic peaks in mornings and evenings.

• Festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali attract many visitors to Odisha, so book transport and accommodation well in advance during these times.

Arrival at Nandankanan & What to Expect

When you arrive near Nandankanan Zoological Park, you will find several options for local commute. Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the park entrance to take you around or back to Bhubaneswar.

Accommodation options near Nandankanan are limited, so many travelers stay in Bhubaneswar city, which has a wide range of hotels and guesthouses. Bhubaneswar also offers good dining and shopping facilities.

At Bhubaneswar Railway Station or bus stand, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber, which are reliable for last-mile connectivity. Exiting the station, follow signboards or ask locals for directions to Nandankanan if taking local transport.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Puri to Nandankanan is by train to Bhubaneswar followed by a taxi or local bus to the park. This option balances cost, comfort, and travel time well for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in Bhubaneswar will help you avoid common hassles. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey and enjoy the beautiful sights of Odisha from Puri’s beaches to Nandankanan’s wildlife sanctuary.