Home › Routes › Kolkata to Puri

Kolkata to Puri

The journey from Kolkata to Puri is a quintessential pilgrimage route for devotees of Lord Jagannath. Spanning approximately 500 kilometers, the route connects the bustling capital

Plan My Trip

500 kmDistance

9 hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

· tap a card to jump to its route plan

Car / Taxi

Swift Dzire₹19,350

Ertiga₹24,600

Innova₹25,650

Innova Crysta₹31,650

Tempo Traveller (12)₹43,500

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

View route plan

Bus

Non-AC Seater₹550

AC Seater₹900

Non-AC Sleeper₹800

AC Sleeper₹1,150

Volvo / Multi-Axle₹1,450

View route plan

Train

Sleeper₹330

Economy₹530

Third AC₹730

Second AC₹1,030

First AC₹1,430

View route plan

Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The journey from Kolkata to Puri is a quintessential pilgrimage route for devotees of Lord Jagannath. Spanning approximately 500 kilometers, the route connects the bustling capital of West Bengal to the sacred coastal town of Odisha. By road, the trip takes around 9 hours via National Highway 16, offering a smooth drive through the lush landscapes of East India. Direct trains, including the famous Puri Express, provide a convenient overnight option, covering the distance in about 8-9 hours. This guide covers all modes of travel, key stopovers, and essential tips to ensure a spiritually enriching and hassle-free visit to the abode of Lord Jagannath.

Route Map

Open in Google Maps

By Car: Kolkata to Puri

500 km · ~10h 40m · About 10h of driving split over 2 days, plus stops.

Start from Kolkata
Leave early (5–6 AM) and avoid driving on highways after dark.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest stop around km 150
Look for a town or highway plaza with fuel and food.
100 km · 2h drive from previous stop
Overnight halt around km 250
Stop for the night in a town along the highway with hotels.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest stop around km 400
Look for a town or highway plaza with fuel and food.
100 km · 2h drive from previous stop
Arrive in Puri
Puri, Odisha

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Kolkata to Puri

500 km · ~11h 7m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Kolkata
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Kolkata. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Kolkata → Puri
AC Sleeper / Volvo (overnight) · ~500 km
~11h 7m|Tentative fare ₹550–₹1,450
Search buses Kolkata to Puri
Arrive in Puri
Puri, Odisha
Hotels in Puri

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Kolkata to Puri

Nearest railway stations: Howrah Jn for Kolkata, Puri for Puri.

Direct trains

Dhauli Express#12821 · Superfast

06:00 AMHowrah Jn

8h 30m101 stops

02:30 PMPuri

CCRunning days & live status ↗

Howrah Puri Duronto Express#12277 · Duronto

02:25 PMHowrah Jn

7h 15m101 stops

09:40 PMPuri

CCRunning days & live status ↗

Howrah-Puri Express#12887 · Superfast

08:55 PMHowrah Jn

8h 39m100 stops

05:34 AM^+1dMalatipatpur

2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Kolkata-Puri Express#12895 · Superfast

08:55 PMHowrah Jn

8h 39m100 stops

05:34 AM^+1dMalatipatpur

2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

KAMAKHYA - PURI Weekly Spl#15644 · Express

11:15 PMHowrah Jn

8h 30m107 stops

07:45 AM^+1dPuri

3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Kolkata to Puri.

Kharagpur120 km from Kolkata from Kolkata
A major railway junction and industrial town, ideal for a short break. Known for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus and local eateries.
Fuel stations and restroomsMultiple restaurants and food stalls (try local Bengali snacks)ATMs and medical stores
Bhubaneswar450 km from Kolkata from Kolkata
The capital of Odisha and the 'Temple City of India'. A perfect stopover to stretch legs, visit the famous Lingaraj Temple, or grab a meal before the final leg to Puri.
Wide range of hotels and restaurantsTourist information center and ATMsMedical facilities and pharmacies

Hotels in Puri

Treebo hotels in Puri, about 1 km from Puri. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

Treebo Sidhartha Inn Baliapanda

Puri

Treebo Sidhartha International Baliapanda

Puri

Things to Do in Puri

Visit the Jagannath Temple (from outside)

Admire the majestic temple architecture and the Nila Chakra from the viewing platform. Learn about its history and significance from local guides.

1-2 hours

Witness the Rath Yatra

If visiting in June/July, join the millions of devotees pulling the colossal chariots. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is the highlight of Puri's calendar.

Full day

Savor Mahaprasad

Partake in the sacred temple food, available at the Ananda Bazaar or through authorized outlets. It is considered a blessing and a culinary delight.

1 hour

Sunrise at Puri Beach

Wake up early to watch the sun rise over the Bay of Bengal, while local fishermen launch their traditional boats. The beach is also ideal for evening strolls.

1-2 hours

Explore Gundicha Temple

Visit the temple where the deities reside during Rath Yatra. It is a peaceful site, less crowded than the main temple, and rich in legend.

1-2 hours

Day Trip to Chilika Lake

Drive to Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, a haven for migratory birds and home to the Irrawaddy dolphins. Enjoy a boat ride and visit the island temples.

6-8 hours

See all places in Puri →

Suggested Puri Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Puri – Jagannath Temple and Beach

Visit Jagannath Temple and observe its towering shikhara and Nila Chakra from the perimeter (respect the entry restrictions).
Explore the temple's outer complex and the Ananda Bazaar area where Mahaprasad is prepared (viewing from outside).
Walk along Puri Beach (Golden Beach) and watch the colorful fishing boats.

Day 2Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake Excursion

Explore the Sun Temple at Konark, famous for its massive chariot-shaped architecture and intricate stone carvings.
Visit the nearby archaeological museum and the Chandrabhaga Beach.
Drive to Chilika Lake (about 50 km from Puri) and take a boat safari to spot dolphins and migratory birds.

Day 3Bhubaneswar Temples and Departure

Visit Lingaraja Temple, a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture (view from outside for non-Hindus).
Explore the smaller but exquisite Mukteshwar Temple and the nearby Rajarani Temple.
Visit the Odisha State Museum or Dhauli Shanti Stupa (peace pagoda) for historical context.

Full 3-day itinerary →

Travel Tips

Book train tickets at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during Rath Yatra (June-July) and winter months.

If driving, start early to avoid Kolkata's morning traffic and reach Puri before sunset.

Carry light woolens if traveling in winter (November-February) as evenings can be cool.

Keep some cash handy for tolls, local transport, and temple offerings (many places don't accept cards).

Stay hydrated and carry snacks for the journey, especially if traveling by bus or car.

Verify the current travel advisories and road conditions before departure, especially during monsoon.

Budget Estimate

road

Toll charges: approx ₹450-₹550 for a car (one-way)

Fuel cost: approx ₹3,500-₹4,500 (depending on car mileage and fuel prices)

Driving from Kolkata to Puri is a scenic and flexible option, especially for families or groups. The route via NH16 is well-maintained, with multiple rest stops and food joints along the way.

train

Puri Express (12881/12882): Sleeper ₹400-₹500, 3AC ₹1,100-₹1,300

Jagannath Express (18409/18410): Sleeper ₹400-₹500, 2AC ₹1,500-₹1,700

Direct trains from Kolkata to Puri are the most popular choice for pilgrims. The overnight journey allows you to sleep and arrive refreshed in the morning.

bus

Ordinary (State bus): ₹400-₹600 per person

Deluxe/AC (Private): ₹700-₹1,000 per person

State-run and private buses operate daily between Kolkata and Puri, offering an economical travel option. The journey takes slightly longer than the train but is comfortable and reliable.

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Puri trip and see the full Kolkata → Puri → next stop route.

Puri → Konark

About 40 km by road

Plan Kolkata → Puri → Konark Konark guide

Puri → Biju Patnaik Airport

About 60 km by road

Plan Kolkata → Puri → Biju Patnaik Airport Biju Patnaik Airport guide

Puri → Bhubaneswar

About 65 km by road

Plan Kolkata → Puri → Bhubaneswar Bhubaneswar guide

Puri → Bhubaneswar Metro

About 80 km by road

Plan Kolkata → Puri → Bhubaneswar Metro Bhubaneswar Metro guide

Plan My Trip: Kolkata to Puri

Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the fastest way to reach Puri from Kolkata?

The fastest way is by train, with direct options like the Howrah-Puri Duronto taking about 8 hours. By car, it takes around 9 hours via NH16, but traffic can extend the time.

2. Are there direct trains from Kolkata to Puri?

Yes, several direct trains run daily, including the Puri Express, Jagannath Express, and Howrah-Puri Duronto. These trains connect Howrah Junction to Puri directly without requiring a change.

3. Is it safe to drive from Kolkata to Puri?

Yes, the route is generally safe and well-maintained. However, it's advisable to drive during daylight hours, follow traffic rules, and take breaks to avoid fatigue.

4. What is the best time to visit Puri?

The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon (June-September) as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.

5. Can I book bus tickets online for Kolkata to Puri?

Yes, you can book bus tickets online through platforms like redBus, Paytm, or the official OSRTC website. Several private operators also offer online booking.