Puri is a famous coastal city in Odisha, known for its beautiful beaches and the Jagannath Temple. Khurda Road Junction is a major railway station located about 40 kilometers north of Puri. This route is popular among pilgrims and tourists traveling to Puri from nearby cities and towns.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Khurda Road Junction to Puri. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Khurda Road Junction to Puri – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is the most convenient and popular option between Khurda Road Junction and Puri. Frequent local trains connect these stations, making it easy and affordable.

• Several passenger and MEMU trains run daily between Khurda Road Junction and Puri, covering around 40 km in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with fares ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 depending on class.

• Trains depart frequently throughout the day, starting early morning until late evening, offering flexibility for travelers and avoiding peak crowd times.

• The route is well maintained, and trains are generally punctual, but monsoon season can cause occasional delays due to waterlogging on tracks.

• Both stations have basic amenities like waiting rooms and refreshment stalls, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks for comfort during travel.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or at station counters is straightforward, but for local trains, tickets are often available on the spot without advance booking.

Bus

Buses provide a good alternative for those who prefer road travel. State-run and private buses connect Khurda Road area to Puri regularly.

• Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators run buses from Khurda Road town or nearby bus stands to Puri, covering the distance in about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares typically range between ₹40 and ₹80, with options including ordinary, deluxe, and air-conditioned coaches for different comfort levels.

• Buses run frequently from early morning to late evening, but during festival seasons like Rath Yatra, buses can be crowded and tickets may sell out quickly.

• The route follows National Highway 316, which is well maintained with several toll plazas; expect some traffic delays during peak hours or monsoon rains.

• There are regular stops along the way for refreshments and restroom breaks, with local dhabas offering simple meals and tea.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Khurda Road Junction to Puri is a flexible and comfortable option, especially for groups or families who want to travel at their own pace.

• The distance by road is about 40 km via NH 316 and NH 316A, taking roughly 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• Car rental services and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Khurda Road and Bhubaneswar, with fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1500 for a one-way trip to Puri.

• Self-driving is possible with clear signboards and good road conditions, but be prepared for toll plazas and occasional traffic jams near Puri during tourist season.

• Driving through rural areas may involve narrow roads and local traffic like tractors and two-wheelers, so caution is advised especially during early morning or late evening.

• Rest stops with fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, making it convenient for breaks during the journey.

Flight

Since Khurda Road Junction and Puri are close by, there is no direct flight option between them. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 30 km from Khurda Road Junction.

• Travelers arriving by air should first reach Khurda Road Junction or Bhubaneswar city, then use train, bus, or car to reach Puri.

• Flights to Bhubaneswar connect major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, making it convenient for long-distance travelers.

• From Bhubaneswar airport, taxis and app-based cabs are available 24/7 to reach Puri in about 2 hours, with fares ranging from ₹1200 to ₹1800.

• Booking flights in advance is recommended, especially during the tourist season and festivals, to get better fares and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Khurda Road Junction to Puri. It covers essential actions to make your journey hassle-free and enjoyable.

• Check train schedules on IRCTC or Indian Railways app to find convenient departure times; trains are frequent and affordable, making them the preferred choice for many travelers.

• If you prefer bus travel, visit the Khurda Road or Bhubaneswar bus stands early to buy tickets, as buses can fill up quickly during peak hours and festival times.

• For car or taxi travel, book your ride in advance using Ola, Uber, or local rental services to avoid last-minute price surges and ensure vehicle availability.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit, especially if traveling by bus or train where onboard facilities are limited.

• Arrive at Khurda Road Junction station or bus stand at least 20 minutes before departure to manage ticketing and boarding smoothly, as Indian transport hubs can be busy and crowded.

• Upon arrival in Puri, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safe and fair local transport to your accommodation or temple, avoiding unmetered auto-rickshaws.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings close and be cautious of pickpockets at crowded stations and bus stands, especially during festivals and peak travel times.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey to avoid stomach issues; carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Book train tickets through IRCTC for confirmed seats and avoid last-minute rush; for local trains, buy tickets early at the station to secure a seat.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile travel in Puri to ensure safety and fair pricing.

• Pack light luggage that is easy to carry and keep an eye on your bags during boarding and alighting from trains or buses to prevent loss or theft.

• During monsoon season, expect occasional delays due to waterlogging on roads and tracks; plan extra travel time and check weather updates before starting your journey.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Khurda Road Junction to Puri is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail travel comfortable.

Monsoon season from June to September can bring heavy rains causing delays and slippery roads, so extra caution is needed. Summer months can be hot and humid, affecting travel comfort.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Rath Yatra and Durga Puja when transport hubs are crowded and prices may rise.

• Fog can occasionally affect early morning train schedules in winter, so check train status before departure.

• Departing early morning or late afternoon helps avoid city traffic and ensures a smoother journey on highways.

• During monsoon, keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for possible delays on both road and rail routes.

Arrival at Puri & What to Expect

When you arrive at Puri railway station or bus stand, you will find several options for local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate regularly, offering safe rides to hotels and tourist spots.

Puri town is compact, and many visitors prefer staying near the Jagannath Temple or the beach area for easy access to main attractions. Auto-rickshaws are available but often charge higher fares to tourists, so negotiate or use prepaid options.

Conclusion

Traveling from Khurda Road Junction to Puri is straightforward with multiple options like train, bus, and car. Trains are the most efficient and economical choice, offering frequent services and a comfortable journey. Road travel by bus or taxi provides flexibility but may take longer during peak traffic.

Plan your trip by checking schedules and booking tickets in advance, especially during festival seasons. Carry essential items and be prepared for seasonal weather changes. With proper planning, you can enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey to the spiritual and scenic city of Puri.