Puri is a famous coastal city in Odisha, known for its beautiful beaches and the revered Jagannath Temple. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan hub in eastern India. Many travelers journey from Kolkata to Puri for pilgrimage, leisure, or cultural experiences.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Kolkata to Puri. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Kolkata to Puri – Main Options

Train

Train travel is the most popular and convenient option for many travelers between Kolkata and Puri. It offers a balance of comfort, affordability, and frequency.

• The main railway stations are Howrah Junction (HWH) or Kolkata Station (KOAA) in Kolkata and Puri Railway Station (PURI) in Puri. The distance is about 500 km, covered in 9 to 12 hours depending on the train.

• Popular trains include the Howrah-Puri Express and the Neelachal Express, which run daily or several times a week, providing options for different departure times.

• Train fares range from around ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1200 for AC 3-tier, making it affordable for most travelers. Booking via IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to secure seats in advance.

• Trains are generally comfortable but can be crowded during festivals like Rath Yatra or summer holidays. It is advisable to book early during these peak times.

• Food options are available on board or at major stations like Kharagpur and Bhubaneswar. Carry some snacks and water for convenience, especially in the monsoon when delays are possible.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel, especially for those who prefer road journeys and want to avoid train bookings.

• Major bus terminals in Kolkata include Esplanade and Howrah Bus Stand, with buses heading to Puri via NH16 and NH316. The road distance is approximately 500 km, taking 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic.

• Both government-run buses by OSRTC and private operators run Volvo, deluxe, and non-AC buses. Volvo buses cost between ₹600 and ₹900, offering more comfort on long journeys.

• Buses run frequently, especially in the evening and night, allowing you to travel overnight and save daytime hours for sightseeing.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery patches. Avoid traveling during heavy rains if possible.

• There are several highway rest stops with basic food and restroom facilities, such as at Kharagpur and Balasore. Carry water and light snacks for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Puri offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. It suits travelers who prefer privacy and want to stop at places along the way.

• The route mainly follows NH16, covering about 500 km, which takes roughly 9 to 11 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Expect toll plazas at multiple points, with toll charges totaling around ₹300 to ₹400. Keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Good rest stops and eateries are available at Kharagpur, Balasore, and Bhubaneswar. Plan breaks every 2-3 hours to stay fresh and safe.

• Driving during early morning or late evening helps avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Bhubaneswar but be cautious of fog during winter mornings on some stretches.

• Self-drive cars can be rented from Kolkata with providers offering vehicles from small hatchbacks to SUVs. Ensure the vehicle is well-maintained and carry a physical map or GPS device.

Flight

Although Puri does not have its own airport, flying is an option for faster travel by flying into Bhubaneswar and then taking road transport to Puri.

• Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) offers multiple daily flights to Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), with flight times around 1 hour.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically between ₹1500 and ₹4000 depending on the airline and booking time. Early booking can secure better deals.

• From Bhubaneswar airport, Puri is about 60 km away, reachable by taxi or bus in 1.5 to 2 hours. Prepaid taxis and Ola/Uber cabs are available at the airport.

• Flying is suitable for travelers short on time or those who want to avoid long road or rail journeys, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Keep in mind that airport transfers and waiting times add to total travel time, so plan accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Check train or bus schedules on IRCTC or OSRTC websites to find suitable departure times. Booking tickets online in advance is crucial during festivals or holidays to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, a power bank, and a small first-aid kit. Indian trains and buses may have limited food options en route.

• Arrive at the departure station or bus stand at least 30 minutes early to find your platform or bus easily and avoid rush, especially at busy terminals like Howrah.

• If traveling by car, ensure your vehicle is serviced, carry a physical or digital map, and plan rest stops along NH16. Avoid driving at night if unfamiliar with the route.

• On arrival in Puri, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and transparent local transport. Avoid accepting rides from unregistered drivers.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps downloaded. Mobile network coverage is generally good but can be patchy in some rural stretches.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always book train tickets through IRCTC or authorized agents to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats, especially during peak seasons like Rath Yatra.

• Carry a refillable water bottle and use trusted water sources or bottled water to avoid stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Use official bus operators like OSRTC for safer and more reliable journeys. Private buses may vary in quality and punctuality.

• For local travel in Puri, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging. Auto-rickshaws may not use meters consistently.

• Pack light luggage that is easy to carry and keep an eye on your belongings at crowded stations and bus stands to prevent theft.

• During monsoon (June to September), expect occasional delays due to rain and road conditions. Carry rain gear and check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Puri is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can delay trains and buses and make road travel challenging. Summer months can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Rath Yatra when trains and buses are overcrowded and prices may surge.

• Winter mornings may have fog on highways, so start your journey after sunrise for safer driving conditions.

• Departing early in the morning or late evening helps avoid city traffic jams in Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling during monsoon to prepare for possible delays or route changes.

Arrival at Puri & What to Expect

When you arrive at Puri Railway Station or bus stand, you will find several local transport options to reach your accommodation or tourist spots. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station for safe rides.

App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Puri, providing convenient and affordable local travel. Auto-rickshaws are common but may not always use meters, so agree on fares beforehand.

Popular areas to stay include near the Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach Road, and Swargadwar. These locations offer easy access to major attractions and local markets.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kolkata to Puri is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a good balance of comfort and cost, while buses provide flexibility. Flights via Bhubaneswar are fastest but involve additional road travel.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, especially during festivals, and prepare for seasonal weather conditions. With proper planning and local travel knowledge, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable trip from Kolkata to Puri.