Puri is a famous coastal city in Odisha, known for its beautiful beaches and the revered Jagannath Temple. Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a major cultural and historical hub in northern India. Traveling from Lucknow to Puri is common for pilgrims, tourists, and holidaymakers seeking spiritual and beach experiences.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Lucknow to Puri. You will learn about the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. This will make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Lucknow to Puri – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for this route due to affordability and direct connectivity. Several trains connect Lucknow Charbagh station to Puri railway station, making it a convenient option for many travelers.

• The Lucknow Charbagh railway station is well connected with major trains like the Lucknow-Puri Express, covering approximately 1,200 km in around 24 to 28 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500 depending on class.

• Trains run frequently but booking in advance through IRCTC is essential, especially during festival seasons like Rath Yatra when demand spikes significantly.

• Train coaches vary from sleeper to AC 3-tier and 2-tier, offering different comfort levels; AC coaches are recommended for overnight travel to avoid fatigue.

• Delays can occur during monsoon months due to track maintenance or fog in northern regions during winter mornings, so plan buffer time accordingly.

• Food options on trains include pantry cars and station vendors at major stops like Varanasi and Bhubaneswar, but carrying light snacks is advisable for long journeys.

Bus

Buses are an option for budget travelers but involve long travel times and multiple changes. Direct buses are limited, so most routes require a transfer at major cities like Varanasi or Bhubaneswar.

• State-run buses like UPSRTC and Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) operate on parts of this route, but no direct Lucknow-Puri bus is common; expect to change buses at Varanasi or Bhubaneswar.

• The total distance is about 1,300 km, and combined bus travel time can exceed 30 hours, making it less comfortable for overnight journeys.

• Bus fares range from ₹800 to ₹1,200 depending on the type of bus, such as deluxe or Volvo, with Volvo buses offering better comfort but fewer frequency.

• Road conditions vary; the route includes National Highways NH27 and NH16, with toll plazas and rest stops at places like Gorakhpur and Cuttack, where you can find basic food and restroom facilities.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging or road repairs, so check weather updates before traveling by bus.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lucknow to Puri offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The journey covers around 1,300 km via NH27 and NH16, taking approximately 24 to 26 hours without long breaks.

• The route passes through major cities like Varanasi, Allahabad, and Bhubaneswar, allowing stops for sightseeing or rest; plan overnight halts to avoid fatigue.

• Fuel stations are frequent along the highways, and toll charges apply at multiple plazas; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Road quality is generally good on national highways, but some stretches near rural Odisha may have potholes, especially during monsoon.

• Driving in India requires caution due to mixed traffic, including trucks, buses, and two-wheelers; avoid night driving in less populated areas for safety.

• Car rentals with driver services are available in Lucknow, offering a stress-free option if you prefer not to drive yourself; negotiate fares and confirm vehicle condition beforehand.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Puri from Lucknow, though Puri does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri.

• Direct flights from Lucknow Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport to Bhubaneswar take around 2.5 hours; multiple airlines operate daily flights with fares typically between ₹3,000 and ₹6,000.

• From Bhubaneswar airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Puri, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport.

• Booking flights early can secure better prices, especially during peak tourist seasons such as winter and Rath Yatra festival.

• Flight delays can occur due to fog in northern India during winter mornings, so plan your onward road transfer accordingly.

• Airport facilities in Bhubaneswar include food courts, ATMs, and luggage services, making the transfer comfortable for travelers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Lucknow to Puri to make the journey smooth and stress-free.

• Book your train or flight tickets in advance through IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability, especially during festivals.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as long journeys may have limited access to food or charging points.

• Reach the Lucknow Charbagh railway station or airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage security checks and boarding without rush.

• If traveling by train, confirm your coach and berth number on the ticket and keep your ID proof handy for verification during the journey.

• On arrival at Bhubaneswar airport or railway station, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to reach Puri safely and at reasonable fares; avoid unmetered taxis.

• Carry local cash for small expenses like auto rickshaw rides or food stalls, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere in Puri.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, especially in crowded stations and bus depots in Lucknow and Puri.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food unless it is freshly cooked and from a trusted vendor to prevent stomach issues.

• Use official websites like IRCTC for train bookings and verified bus operator portals to ensure legitimate tickets and avoid scams.

• In Puri, use local auto rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances; agree on fares beforehand if the meter is not used.

• Pack your luggage in sturdy bags and keep important documents and valuables in a carry-on bag to avoid loss during transfers.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery roads on the Lucknow-Puri route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Lucknow to Puri is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rains that can cause road and rail delays. Also, major festivals like Rath Yatra in Puri can lead to crowded trains and higher fares.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali in Lucknow and Rath Yatra in Puri to escape heavy crowds and inflated ticket prices.

• Winter fog in northern India can cause train and flight delays early in the morning, so plan departures for mid-morning or afternoon.

• Monsoon rains can cause waterlogging on highways NH27 and NH16, leading to slower road travel and occasional diversions.

• Early morning or late evening departures are less crowded and can help you avoid city traffic in Lucknow and Bhubaneswar.

Arrival at Puri & What to Expect

When you arrive at Puri railway station or reach the city from Bhubaneswar airport, you will find several transport options to reach your accommodation. Puri is a small city with easy local commute options.

Prepaid taxis and auto rickshaws are available outside the railway station and bus stands. App-based cab services like Ola and Uber operate in Puri but may have limited availability compared to bigger cities. Popular areas to stay include near the Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach, which are well connected by local transport.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Lucknow to Puri is by train or flight combined with a short road transfer from Bhubaneswar. Trains offer a budget-friendly and direct option, while flights save time and add comfort. Car travel is suitable for those who prefer flexibility and sightseeing en route, though it requires careful planning.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, packing smartly, and choosing travel times outside peak hours will make your journey smooth. With the right preparation and knowledge of local transport, you can confidently enjoy your trip from Lucknow to Puri and experience the spiritual and coastal charm of this iconic destination.