Puri, a picturesque coastal city in Odisha, is one of India’s most cherished spiritual destinations, renowned for the sacred Jagannath Temple. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a tourist eager to explore the beaches, vibrant culture, and heritage of this city, knowing how to reach Puri will make your journey seamless. This guide provides detailed information on different travel modes, routes, and tips to help you plan your visit, including how to reach Jagannath Puri from Delhi and Mumbai.
Puri, situated on the Bay of Bengal, is part of Odisha’s Golden Triangle, alongside Bhubaneswar and Konark. The city is accessible by road, rail, and air, making it convenient for visitors from across India and abroad. Here’s a breakdown of all the ways to travel to Puri.
How to Reach Puri
By Air
The nearest airport to Puri is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 kilometres away. Bhubaneswar is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.
Taxis and cabs are readily available at the airport, taking about 1.5 hours to reach Puri. Private car rentals and shared vehicles are also popular options. Regular bus services operate between Bhubaneswar and Puri.
By Train
Puri has its railway station, which is a major hub for pilgrims and tourists. Direct trains connect Puri to several cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Key trains to Puri: Purushottam Express (Delhi to Puri), Konark Express (Mumbai to Puri), and Howrah-Puri Express (Kolkata to Puri).
By Road
Puri is well-connected by national and state highways, making road travel an excellent option. Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private bus operators run regular services to Puri from nearby cities.
Distance from key cities: Bhubaneswar to Puri: 60 km (1.5 hours), Kolkata to Puri: 500 km (10-12 hours).
How to Reach Jagannath Puri from Delhi
For travellers from Delhi, reaching Jagannath Puri is straightforward, thanks to excellent connectivity by air, train, and road.
By Air
Take a direct flight from Delhi to Bhubaneswar (2.5 hours). From Bhubaneswar Airport, hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Puri in 1.5 hours.
By Train
Board the Purushottam Express, which directly connects Delhi to Puri. The journey takes around 30-36 hours. Opt for Rajdhani or Duronto Express to Bhubaneswar, followed by a road trip to Puri.
By Road
A road trip from Delhi to Puri (about 1,800 km) is a long journey, typically taking 30+ hours. It is more practical for those looking for an adventurous drive or planning a multi-city trip.
How to Reach Jagannath Puri
If you’re wondering how to reach Jagannath Puri, the options remain similar to reaching Puri itself, as Jagannath Temple is located within the city. Depending on your starting point, the most efficient travel mode can vary.
By Air: Fly to Bhubaneswar and take a cab or bus to Puri. By Train: Direct trains to Puri railway station are the most convenient. By Road: Drive to Puri or take a bus from nearby cities for a cost-effective option.
How to Reach Puri from Delhi
For those travelling directly to Puri from Delhi, you can choose from the following:
By Air
Fly to Bhubaneswar from Delhi and take a taxi or bus to Puri. Several airlines operate daily flights, with travel time being approximately 2.5 hours.
By Train
The Purushottam Express offers a direct route to Puri from Delhi. Alternatively, take a train to Bhubaneswar and complete the last leg of the journey by road.
By Road
Although long, a road journey from Delhi to Puri offers a scenic experience if you’re planning stops at destinations en route like Varanasi and Ranchi.
How to Reach Jagannath Puri from Mumbai
If you’re planning how to reach Jagannath Puri from Mumbai, here’s what you need to know:
By Air
Direct flights from Mumbai to Bhubaneswar take about 2.5 hours. From Bhubaneswar, hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Puri in 1.5 hours.
By Train
The Konark Express offers direct connectivity from Mumbai to Puri, with a travel time of around 36 hours. Alternatively, take a train to Bhubaneswar and then proceed by road.
By Road
The road distance between Mumbai and Puri is over 1,600 km, making it a long journey of 30-35 hours by car. Opt for this mode only if you’re on an extended road trip.
Tips for a Smooth Journey to Puri
Book Tickets in Advance: Puri is a popular destination, especially during Rath Yatra and winter months. Plan your travel well in advance to secure tickets and accommodations. Choose the Right Season: Winter (October to February) is the ideal time to visit Puri, offering pleasant weather for sightseeing and temple visits. Carry Essentials: Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, and essential documents for your journey. Respect Local Customs: Puri, being a spiritual destination, requires visitors to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Stay Updated on Timings: Check train, flight, and temple timings before planning your trip.
Conclusion
Whether you’re travelling from Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city, reaching Puri is convenient, thanks to its excellent connectivity. Knowing how to reach Puri by air, train, or road ensures a hassle-free journey. For those planning a spiritual trip, understanding how to reach Jagannath Puri from Delhi or Mumbai will help you choose the best travel mode.
Plan your trip to this sacred city and experience its spiritual ambience, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Akash shree