How to Go to Puri from Kolkata
Ever wondered why the 500-kilometer stretch between Kolkata and Puri is the most traveled pilgrimage and vacation route in Eastern India? For a Bengali, a trip to Puri isn’t just a vacation; it’s a rite of passage, a spiritual homecoming, and a mandatory dose of “Vitamin Sea.” Whether you are seeking the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath or the calming rhythm of the Bay of Bengal, this journey offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastlines.
Specifically, in this guide, we will break down everything you need to plan the perfect trip—from the best ways to travel and must-visit temples to hidden seaside gems and the ultimate Odia seafood platter. Consequently, by the end of this post, you’ll have a ready-to-use itinerary completely optimized for your next weekend getaway.
Trains are a popular mode of transport for travelers heading to Puri from Kolkata. The city boasts a well-connected railway station, Puri Railway Station (PURI).
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by train:
- Initially, check the current train schedules and secure your train ticket online through the official IRCTC booking portal.
| Train Name & Number | Departure Station | Departure Time | Travel Time | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat Exp (22895) | Howrah (HWH) | 06:10 | 6h 40m | CC: ₹1,485 EC: ₹2,665 |
| Dhauli Express (12821) | Howrah (HWH) | 09:10 | 9h 05m | 2S: ₹210 CC: ₹740 |
| Shatabdi Express (12277) | Howrah (HWH) | 14:15 | 7h 55m | CC: ₹1,410 EC: ₹2,155 |
| Jagannath Express (18409) | Shalimar (SHM) | 18:55 | 9h 40m | SL: ₹310 3A: ₹810 2A: ₹1,145 1A: ₹1,905 |
| Puri Garib Rath (12881) | Shalimar (SHM) | 20:35 | 8h 45m | 3A: ₹620 |
| HWH Puri SF Exp (12837) | Howrah (HWH) | 22:30 | 9h 00m | SL: ₹355 3A: ₹905 2A: ₹1,255 1A: ₹2,070 |
| Duronto Express (22201) | Sealdah (SDAH) | 20:00 | 04:35 | SL: ₹595 3A: ₹1,435 |
Booking Strategy :
- Pre-booking: Puri is a high-demand route. Ideally, book 60–120 days in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
- Tatkal Suggestion: If you missed pre-booking, try Premium Tatkal (if available) as it has a better success rate than regular Tatkal, though it costs more.
- Return Tickets: Always book your return ticket (Puri to Kolkata) simultaneously. The Sunday night return trains are the hardest to get.
Food On Boarding :
- Vande Bharat/Shatabdi: Food is included in the ticket. They serve breakfast/snacks and dinner.
- Others: Carry dry snacks, biscuits, and water. While pantry cars and “E-Catering” (via the IRCTC app) are available, having your own food is safer for overnight trips.
- Next, depart from your designated Kolkata terminal, which typically includes Howrah, Sealdah, or Shalimar station depending on your train selection.
Stoppages : Most trains stop at Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar. ( For 2 -5 minutes )
- Upon reaching Puri Railway Station (PURI), you will find plenty of local transportation options such as taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws waiting right outside.
- Finally, head straight over to the Jagannath Temple area or your beachside hotel to immerse yourself in the spiritual seaside atmosphere.
Duronto Express (22201) Availability
The Duronto typically runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
2. How to Go to Puri from Kolkata by Road:
For those who appreciate long road trips and the scenic beauty they offer, traveling by road is an excellent option.
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by road:
Before departing, ensure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition and verify that your digital or physical driver’s license and vehicle registration are up to date.
Following that, embark on your road trip from Kolkata by merging onto National Highway 16 (NH16) via Kharagpur and Bhubaneswar.
Once you arrive in the coastal city, park comfortably at your hotel’s designated parking zones before heading out to explore the landmarks.
Route & Road Conditions :
The primary route is NH16 (National Highway 16) via Kharagpur and Bhubaneswar.
- West Bengal Stretch: Generally smooth with a speed limit of 100 km/hr.
- Odisha Stretch: Roads are excellent but highly regulated. The speed limit drops to 80 km/hr, and in some sections, it can be as low as 30–40 km/hr.
- Caution: There are over 10 speed traps between Balasore and Bhubaneswar. Fines for overspeeding can reach ₹5,000.
- Night Driving: If driving at night, watch out for stray cattle on the “Jagannath Road” section as you enter Puri, which is often poorly lit.
Best Stops Along the Kolkata to Puri Route :
- Kolaghat: The standard first stop for breakfast. Popular spots include Express Food Plaza
- Kharagpur/Midnapore: Good for a quick stretch; Baba Biryani is a popular local recommendation.
- Bhadrak: Ideal for a mid-way halt if you prefer not to drive the full distance in one go.
- Bhubaneswar: Stop here for authentic Odia food at Ekamra Haat or to visit the Lingaraja Temple before the final hour-long stretch to Puri.
Essential Tips :
- Tolls: Expect to pay around ₹850 one-way in a car. Major plazas include Rajchandrapur, Dhulagori, and Manguli.
- Navigation: Use an app like Mappls or Google Maps to stay updated on real-time speed limits and camera locations.
- Documents: Ensure your DL, RC, and Insurance are digital or physical, as Odisha police are very strict with checks.
3. How to Go to Puri from Kolkata by Bus:
Traveling from Kolkata to Puri by bus is a cost-effective option, with various private bus operators offering services along this route.
Goverment Bus Details :
- Govt Bus (OSRTC): Operates the highly-rated Shree Jagannath Express.
- Fares: Approximately ₹1,250 – ₹1,260 for Volvo AC Sleeper or Semi-Sleeper.
- Departure: Usually between 9:15 PM and 9:40 PM.
Private Bus Details :
- Private Buses: Major operators include Dolphin Tours and Travels, Sana Travels, Pradhan, and Aryan Travels.
- Fares: ₹615 – ₹1,100 depending on AC/Non-AC and seat/sleeper preference.
- Stoppages: Typically includes Kolaghat (for dinner), Baleswar (Balasore), Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar.
- Time Taken: Roughly 10.5 to 11 hours.
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by bus:
To start, reserve your long-distance bus ticket well in advance using an online booking platform or a verified local travel counter.
On your travel date, make your way to the designated Kolkata boarding point at Esplanade, Babughat, or Santragachi.
Throughout the ride, enjoy the comfortable overnight journey across the highway, keeping essential water and snacks readily available.
Ultimately, unpack safely at your final destination bus stop and feel the welcoming breeze of the Bay of Bengal.
Alternative Boarding Points :
- Santragachi Bus Stand: Located near the flyover. Almost all buses departing from Babughat/Esplanade stop here about 30–45 minutes after their initial start. This is a major hub for Dolphin and Shyamoli.
- Dankuni Housing More: A frequent pickup for private buses serving passengers from the northern suburbs or those arriving via the Durgapur Expressway.
- Other Points: Common highway stops include Belepole, Kona More, Dhulagarh Toll Plaza, and Uluberia Nimdighi.
4. How to Go to Puri from Kolkata by Train and Bus Combination:
A combination of train and bus travel is an excellent choice for those looking for both convenience and adventure.
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by train and bus combination:
- To begin with, secure your train ticket from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar, which serves as a major transit hub close to the coast.
- Following that, embark on your comfortable train journey and enjoy the changing landscape for roughly 7 to 9 hours.
- Upon your arrival at Bhubaneswar Railway Station, walk over to the local transit area to board a direct connecting bus heading toward Puri.
- Ultimately, enjoy the brief 2-hour bus ride, check into your hotel, and explore the gorgeous spiritual treasures around the temple.
5. How to Go to Puri from Kolkata by Train and Auto-rickshaw Combination:
A combination of train and auto-rickshaw travel is another convenient option.
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by train and auto-rickshaw combination:
- Initially, organize your travel itinerary by booking a rail ticket from Kolkata to Bhubaneswar station.
- Next, relax during the smooth train ride across the state borders to reach the Bhubaneswar terminal.
- Subsequently, step outside the station gates where you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw for the remaining 60-kilometer stretch.
- In addition, savor the pleasant open-air breeze as you traverse the picturesque, palm-fringed landscapes directly into Puri.
6. How to Go to Puri from Kolkata by Flight
A combination of air travel is an excellent choice for those looking for both speed and comfort.
How to go to Puri from Kolkata by Flight:
- First, board a direct, rapid flight from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI).
| Flight Number | Departure (Kolkata) | Arrival (Bhubaneswar) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6E 7623 | 7:50 AM | 9:15 AM | 1 hr 25 min |
| 6E 6214 | 2:10 PM | 3:20 PM | 1 hr 10 min |
| 6E 7583 | 3:20 PM | 4:40 PM | 1 hr 20 min |
| 6E 6717 | 6:35 PM | 7:50 PM | 1 hr 15 min |
- Soon after landing, complete your standard arrival formalities and collect your bags at the terminal carousel.
- Directly following this, head toward the exit gates to hire a pre-paid taxi or secure an app-based cab.
- Conclusively, relax during the scenic 90-minute drive along the national highway that brings you smoothly onto the Puri beachfront.
Summary :
To travel from Kolkata to Puri, you need to catch a flight from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). Since Puri does not have its own commercial airport, you must land at Bhubaneswar (Biju Patnaik International Airport – BBI). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Puri, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
Essential Tips : What to do if you miss your flight ?
- Contact the Airline Counter: Immediately visit the airline’s help desk at the airport. They can inform you about seat availability on the next flight.
- No-Show Policy: Airlines have a “No-Show” policy for missed flights. Often, you can secure a seat on the next flight by paying an extra charge (subject to availability).
- Refund: If you miss your flight, a major portion of the ticket price is usually non-refundable; you may only get a refund for certain tax components.
- Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance and the reason for missing the flight is valid (e.g., accident or medical emergency), you may be able to file a claim.
With your travel plans set and your arrival in the Holy City complete, the adventure truly starts. Puri is more than just a destination; it is a collection of stories etched in stone and spirit. Leave your luggage behind and join us as we explore the most iconic spots located just a stone’s throw from the shoreline.
Nearest Places to visit
Shree Jagannath Temple
The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is a 12th-century architectural masterpiece and a primary destination of the Char Dham Yatra. It is renowned for its 214-foot spire and its unique presiding deities—Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—who are carved from sacred neem logs rather than stone.
The Sacred Nabakalebara Ritual
Unlike most Hindu idols, these wooden figures are ritualistically replaced during the Nabakalebara ceremony every 12 to 19 years. This sacred site remains a vibrant symbol of Odia culture and one of India’s most revered pilgrimage hubs.
Gundicha Mandir
Located in Puri, Odisha, the Gundicha Mandir serves as the “Garden House” and summer retreat for Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. It is situated roughly 3 kilometers from the main temple and is characterized by its tranquil gardens and classical Kalinga architecture built from light-grey sandstone.
While the temple remains vacant for most of the year, it becomes the vibrant center of worship during the annual Rath Yatra. For nine days, the deities reside here, marking the pinnacle of the festival’s celebrations. This sacred site symbolizes the hospitality and devotion offered to the divine siblings during their symbolic journey.
Narendra Tank
The Narendra Tank in Puri is one of Odisha’s largest sacred water bodies, spanning 3.2 acres and built in the 15th century. It serves as the primary stage for the Chandan Yatra, the city’s longest festival, where representative idols are brought from the main temple for a ritualistic “water cruise.”
During this celebration, the deities are rowed in decorated boats to the Chandana Mandapa, a small white temple located on a central island. This cooling ritual, accompanied by traditional music and dance, allows the deities to escape the summer heat. Surrounded by ghats and shrines, the tank remains a vital site for religious life and scenic devotion.
Food
Khaja
Specifically, Khaja is a legendary deep-fried pastry and a cornerstone of the Chhapana Bhog offered at the Shree Jagannath Temple. Consequently, because it is made from layered wheat flour dough, it features a distinctive crisp texture achieved through deep-frying and a subsequent soak in flavored sugar syrup.
Unlike softer regional variations, the Puri Khaja is celebrated for its architectural layers and long shelf life. This makes it the most iconic “Mahaprasad” souvenir for pilgrims to carry home. Its perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and succulent interior remains a testament to Odisha’s rich culinary heritage.
Package Providers
Budget Packages (Economy)
- Trawell.in: Offers one of the lowest entry points, with 2-day quick trips starting around ₹5,200 and 3-day plans for ₹6,800. Note that transport to Puri might be extra.
- Mypuritour Holidays: Specializes in winter deals and short trips, with budget packages often starting under ₹6,000. They focus on “Jagannath Temple darshan planning” and basic seaside stays.
- Ritual Holidays: Their 2-night/3-day standard packages start at approximately ₹7,499, offering a reliable mid-budget alternative.
Standard/Value Packages (Mid-Range)
- Travel Triangle: Highly recommended for families. Their 4-night/5-day packages start around ₹9,900. This often includes 3-star hotel stays, private transfers, and a structured itinerary for Bhubaneswar and Puri.
- Sacred Yatra: Offers specialized Puri Train Tour Packages starting at ₹15,999. This is excellent for senior citizens or families as it includes your train tickets from Kolkata, 4 nights’ accommodation, and private AC vehicles for all sightseeing.
Premium & Luxury Packages (High-End)
MakeMyTrip: Offers “Odisha Luxe Escapes” and “Luxury Holiday” packages ranging from ₹26,000 to ₹48,000. These packages include round-trip flights, 4-star or 5-star hotels, and specialized “Pandit ji” assistance for temple darshan.
Specialized Heritage Tour Packages
Pikme: Focuses on heritage and “Tribal Treasures” tours. Their premium multi-day heritage circuits can go up to ₹66,000 for an 11-night deep dive into Odisha.
In Conclusion:
How to go to Puri from Kolkata offers a range of transportation options to accommodate different preferences and schedules. Whether you opt for the train, road, bus, or a combination of these modes, your journey to Puri promises a blend of spiritual serenity, natural beauty, and the coastal charm of its pristine beaches. Upon your arrival in Puri, take the time to explore the city’s spiritual attractions, lounge on the sandy shores, and experience the cultural richness that defines this remarkable destination, ensuring your visit to Puri is both memorable and fulfilling.