Puri is a famous coastal city in Odisha, known for its historic Jagannath Temple and beautiful beaches. Delhi, the capital of India, is located in the northern part of the country. Many travelers journey from Delhi to Puri for pilgrimage, tourism, and cultural experiences.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Delhi to Puri, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will find practical details on travel time, costs, and tips to help plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Puri – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for reaching Puri from Delhi. It offers a direct connection with several trains running weekly, suitable for those who prefer overnight journeys and scenic routes.

• Delhi’s main departure stations are New Delhi (NDLS) and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), with Puri Railway Station (PURI) as the destination, covering approximately 1700 km in 26 to 32 hours.

• Popular trains include the Purushottam Express and Neelachal Express, running 3 to 4 times a week, offering sleeper and AC classes with fares ranging from ₹600 to ₹2500 depending on class.

• Trains can be crowded during festival seasons like Rath Yatra and summer holidays, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is essential to secure preferred classes and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Facilities on trains include onboard catering, clean restrooms, and charging points in AC coaches; however, delays of 1-3 hours are common during monsoon due to track maintenance or fog in northern India.

• Arriving at Puri station, you will find prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaws for local travel, making it easy to reach hotels or the temple area within 10-15 minutes.

Bus

Buses from Delhi to Puri are less common due to the long distance but are an option for budget travelers who prefer road travel and want to explore en route towns.

• Buses depart mainly from Kashmere Gate ISBT in Delhi and arrive at Puri Bus Stand, covering around 1700 km with a journey time of 36 to 40 hours depending on traffic and route.

• State transport buses like Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators offer Volvo and sleeper buses with fares between ₹1200 and ₹2000.

• Bus frequency is limited, usually 1-2 times per week, so booking tickets in advance through MSRTC or private portals is recommended to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Road conditions vary; the route mostly follows NH19 and NH16, with toll plazas and several rest stops offering food and washroom facilities, but expect some delays during monsoon due to waterlogging.

• Night travel can be tiring, and buses may be crowded during holiday seasons, so carrying water, snacks, and a travel pillow is advisable for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Puri is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore towns along the way. The route covers diverse landscapes and cultural stops.

• The distance by road is approximately 1700 km via NH19 and NH16, taking around 30 to 34 hours of driving time without long breaks, so plan for 2-3 days with overnight stops.

• Major cities on the route include Kanpur, Varanasi, and Bhubaneswar, where you can rest, refuel, and enjoy local cuisine, making the journey more enjoyable and less tiring.

• Toll charges on national highways can total around ₹800 to ₹1200 one way; ensure you have FASTag activated for smooth toll plaza passage without delays.

• Road quality is generally good on national highways, but expect some rough patches and traffic congestion near cities; monsoon season may cause slippery roads and occasional flooding in low-lying areas.

• Self-drive requires a valid Indian driving license, and it is advisable to carry a physical copy of your documents, vehicle papers, and emergency contact numbers for roadside assistance.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Puri from Delhi, combining air travel with a short road journey. It suits travelers with limited time who want comfort and speed.

• There are no direct flights to Puri as it lacks a commercial airport; the nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri.

• Multiple daily flights operate between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Bhubaneswar, with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara; flight duration is around 2.5 to 3 hours.

• From Bhubaneswar airport, you can take prepaid taxis, Ola/Uber cabs, or state buses to Puri, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and costs ₹800 to ₹1200 by cab.

• Flight fares vary widely, from ₹2500 to ₹7000 one way, depending on booking time and season; booking tickets 3-4 weeks in advance usually secures better prices.

• Airport facilities in Bhubaneswar include luggage services, ATMs, and food outlets; however, last-mile connectivity can be affected by local strikes or monsoon traffic delays, so plan accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Puri, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Train is economical and scenic, flight is fastest, bus is budget-friendly but long, and car offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets early, especially for trains and flights, using IRCTC for trains and airline websites or apps for flights. Early booking ensures availability and better fares.

• Step 3: Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, medicines, and chargers. Carry a valid ID and booking confirmations in physical or digital form for verification during travel.

• Step 4: Arrive at the departure point (station, airport, or bus stand) at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and complete security or check-in formalities comfortably.

• Step 5: During travel, stay hydrated and keep your belongings secure. For long journeys, take breaks during stops, try local food at rest areas, and follow safety instructions from staff.

• Step 6: On arrival at Puri, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for local travel. Confirm fares beforehand and keep small change for auto-rickshaws or local buses.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always book train tickets through the official IRCTC website or app to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats, especially during festival seasons when demand is high.

• Carry a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or trusted bottled water brands to avoid waterborne illnesses common in some Indian regions.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber at airports and railway stations to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel within Puri.

• Keep your luggage light and secure with locks, as crowded trains and buses can be targets for pickpockets; keep valuables close to you at all times.

• During monsoon (July to September), expect delays due to waterlogging and slippery roads; carry rain gear and check weather updates before traveling.

• Try local Odia cuisine at recommended stops or restaurants, but avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach; carry basic medicines for digestion and allergies.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Puri depends on weather and festivals. Avoid monsoon months for smoother road and train journeys. Winter months offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Peak travel occurs during Rath Yatra and winter holidays, causing crowded trains and higher fares. Planning travel outside these periods ensures better comfort and availability.

• Avoid traveling during Rath Yatra (usually June or July) when Puri is extremely crowded, and transport services are heavily booked.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause delays due to fog in northern India and heavy rains in Odisha, affecting road and rail travel.

• Winter months (October to February) provide pleasant weather with less humidity and clear skies, ideal for travel and sightseeing.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reach stations or airports on time, improving overall travel experience.

Arrival at Puri & What to Expect

Arriving at Puri Railway Station or Bus Stand, you will find several options for local transport, including prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. The station area is well connected to major hotels and the Jagannath Temple.

Most travelers prefer staying near the beach road or temple area for easy access to attractions. Prepaid taxi counters at the station ensure fair pricing, but always confirm the fare before starting your journey. Local buses are available but may be crowded and less comfortable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Puri offers multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train is the most popular and economical choice, providing a direct and comfortable journey. Flights combined with road travel offer speed and convenience for those short on time.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, packing smartly, and choosing the right season will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Delhi to Puri and look forward to a memorable experience in this spiritual and scenic city.