How to Reach Puri Easily by Train, Road, and Air Options

Puri, a sacred coastal town in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. Famous for the revered Jagannath Temple and the annual Rath Yatra festival, the town welcomes millions of devotees and tourists every year. For anyone planning a trip, knowing how to reach Puri is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Whether you are traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city in India, Puri is well-connected by rail, road, and air. The scenic beauty of the region, combined with its religious and historical significance, makes it a must-visit destination. This guide covers all modes of transport and gives detailed information to help you plan your journey comfortably.

Reaching Puri by Train: A Preferred Choice for Pilgrims

One of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to travel to Puri is by train. Puri has its own railway station, which is directly connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Indian Railways operates several express and superfast trains to Puri, making rail travel a preferred option for both pilgrims and tourists.

The Puri Railway Station is located near the heart of the town and is well-equipped with amenities. From the station, travelers can easily access local transportation such as auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws to reach nearby hotels and attractions. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside, especially if you're traveling from northern or western India, adding to the overall travel experience.

If you’re planning your visit during peak seasons such as Rath Yatra or winter holidays, it is advisable to book your train tickets well in advance to secure your preferred travel dates.

Traveling by Air: Nearest Airport to Puri

Although Puri does not have its own airport, the nearest one is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 60 kilometers away. This airport is well-connected with major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Several airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate daily flights to Bhubaneswar.

After arriving in Bhubaneswar, you can hire a taxi, book an app-based cab, or take a bus to Puri. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. The route between Bhubaneswar and Puri is smooth and scenic, making it a pleasant drive. You can also opt for a local train from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to Puri, which takes approximately an hour.

Flying into Bhubaneswar is ideal for travelers who are short on time and want a quick and comfortable journey. From there, the transition to Puri is easy and well-managed.

Road Travel to Puri: A Flexible Journey

For those who enjoy road trips or prefer flexible travel schedules, reaching Puri by road is a great option. The town is connected by well-maintained highways, including NH-316, which links it with Bhubaneswar and other parts of Odisha. Buses operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators frequently run between Puri and major cities within the state.

You can also hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle from nearby cities. The roads offer scenic views of rivers, villages, and paddy fields. There are multiple stops along the way for refreshments, making road travel not just convenient but also enjoyable.

Driving to Puri is especially popular among tourists coming from Cuttack, Konark, and Gopalpur. It allows you the flexibility to explore nearby attractions at your own pace and plan your itinerary with greater freedom.

How to Reach Jagannath Puri: A Spiritual Destination

The main reason most people travel to Puri is to visit the famous Jagannath Temple, one of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Knowing how to reach Jagannath Puri is important for those planning a religious journey.

The temple is located in the heart of Puri town and is easily accessible from all entry points—be it the railway station, bus stand, or any hotel. Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and local taxis are readily available to take you directly to the temple area. Visitors should note that only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple complex, but the structure can be admired from outside by people of all faiths.

During the annual Rath Yatra festival, special transport services and crowd management protocols are implemented to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. It is advised to check for local advisories and travel regulations during this period.

How to Reach Puri from Delhi: Multiple Travel Options

If you are wondering how to reach Puri from Delhi, there are several ways to make the journey. The most popular option is to take a direct train such as the Purushottam Express or Nandankanan Express, which run between New Delhi and Puri. The journey typically takes around 30 hours and offers a comfortable travel experience with sleeper and AC coach options.

For a faster journey, you can fly from Delhi to Bhubaneswar and then travel to Puri by taxi or train. This option takes less than 6 hours in total and is ideal for short trips or sudden travel plans.

Road travel from Delhi to Puri is possible but not commonly chosen due to the long distance of over 1,700 kilometers. However, for those who enjoy long drives and wish to explore the countryside, it can be an adventurous route.

How to Reach Jagannath Puri from Mumbai

If you are located in western India and wish to know how to reach Jagannath Puri from Mumbai, you have good options as well. There are direct trains like the Lokmanya Tilak Puri Express that run from Mumbai to Puri. The train journey takes approximately 36 to 38 hours and provides an economical way to travel.

Another option is to take a flight from Mumbai to Bhubaneswar. Once you land in Bhubaneswar, you can continue your journey to Puri by road or rail, as discussed earlier. This option significantly reduces travel time and is preferred by travelers who are short on time or traveling with families.

If you wish to combine road and air travel, you can fly to cities closer to Puri and drive the remaining distance. This option allows flexibility and can be tailored to include stops at nearby attractions such as Konark or Chilika Lake.

Conclusion

Understanding how to reach Puri is the first step in planning a fulfilling journey to one of India’s most sacred and culturally vibrant towns. Whether you’re a pilgrim visiting the Jagannath Temple, a tourist exploring Odisha’s Golden Triangle, or a traveler looking for spiritual peace, reaching Puri is convenient and flexible.

From trains that connect it directly to major cities, to flights into nearby Bhubaneswar and scenic road routes, every travel style is catered for. Whether you're figuring out how to reach Jagannath Puri from Delhi, how to reach Jagannath Puri from Mumbai, or simply want to enjoy the road from Bhubaneswar, your path to Puri is open, welcoming, and well-paved.