Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way from Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) to Puri is by pre-booked taxi or cab, taking 1.5 to 2 hours at a cost of ₹1,800 - ₹2,500 ($22-$30). The cheapest way is a combination of auto-rickshaw to Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) and a local train to Puri (PURI), costing under ₹200 ($2.5) but taking 3-4 hours. Most travelers find a balance with an app-based cab (Ola/Uber) or a direct train from BBS station.
By Train: The Scenic and Popular Choice
Taking the train from Bhubaneswar to Puri is a classic and highly recommended experience, offering glimpses of rural Odisha and the coastline. However, it requires a two-step process as there is no railway station at the airport.
Step-by-Step Guide: Airport to Puri by Train
- Airport to Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS): Distance is 6 km.
- Pre-paid Taxi: Official booth outside arrivals. Cost: ₹300-₹400. Time: 20-30 mins.
- Ola/Uber: Usually cheaper (~₹200-₹300). Wait at the designated pickup zone.
- Auto-rickshaw: Bargain hard. Expect ₹150-₹250 for the ride.
- Bus: Rare and not recommended with luggage. If you must, take a bus to Master Canteen/Baramunda and then an auto to BBS.
- Train from BBS to Puri (PURI): Multiple trains run daily.
Train Name/No. Departure (BBS) Arrival (PURI) Travel Time Fare (General/CC*) Key Features Puri Express / 18415 06:30, 13:45, 18:30 (Frequent) ~1.5 - 2 hrs later 1h 30m - 2h ₹50 / ₹180-250 Fast, frequent, reliable Local Passenger Trains Throughout the day ~2 - 2.5 hrs later 2h - 2h 30m ₹30-₹50 (General only) Very cheap, no reservation, can be crowded Intercity Express Morning & Evening ~1h 45m later 1h 45m ₹55 / ₹210 Comfortable, chair car option *CC = Chair Car (Air-conditioned seating). Source: Indian Railways IRCTC - Puri Station to Your Hotel: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are available outside Puri station for short rides within the town.
Booking Tickets & Tips
Book in Advance: For AC classes (Chair Car, Sleeper) on popular trains like the Puri Express, book online via IRCTC 1-2 days ahead, especially during weekends and festivals (Ratha Yatra, Durga Puja). General Class tickets are sold on the spot but offer no seat guarantee.
Luggage: Trains have overhead racks and under-seat space. For large groups with heavy luggage, a taxi might be more practical despite the higher cost.
By Bus: The Most Economical Option
Buses offer the lowest cash cost but involve the most steps and uncertainty. There is no direct bus from BBI Airport to Puri.
The Two-Leg Journey: Airport -> Bus Stand -> Puri
- Airport to Baramunda Bus Stand: This is Odisha's largest bus terminal, 6 km from BBI.
- Take an auto-rickshaw (₹150-200) or taxi (₹250-350).
- Travel time: 20-40 minutes depending on city traffic.
- Bus from Baramunda to Puri:
- OSRTC Government Buses: Frequent service from early morning (~5 AM) until evening (~8 PM). Fare: ₹80-₹120. Travel Time: 2 - 2.5 hours. These are standard, non-AC buses.
- Private Buses & Minivans: Often touted at the bus stand. They may leave faster when full but can be overcrowded. Negotiate fare (₹100-₹150).
- Volvo AC Buses (Limited): Fewer schedules. Fare: ₹200-₹300. More comfortable for the 2-hour journey.
Pros: Extremely cheap. You experience local travel.
Cons: Multiple transfers with luggage. Unpredictable wait times. Can be hot and crowded. Not ideal for late-night arrivals.
Direct Private Transfer Buses (Tourist Coaches)
Some tour operators run direct coach services from near the airport to Puri for pilgrim groups, especially during peak season. These are not regular public transport. Inquire with your hotel in Puri or local tour agencies in Bhubaneswar if they can arrange a seat.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most straightforward, comfortable, and time-efficient option, especially for families, groups, or those with significant luggage.
Taxi Options from BBI to Puri
| Service Type | How to Book | Estimated Cost (AC) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Pre-Paid Taxi | Official counter inside the arrivals hall. Fixed fare. | ₹1,900 - ₹2,500 | 1.5 - 2.5 hrs | First-time visitors, immediate departure, safety. |
| Ola / Uber | Use the app. Pickup zone is outside arrivals. | ₹1,600 - ₹2,200 | 1.5 - 2.5 hrs | Tech-savvy travelers, better rates, cashless payment. |
| Private Transfer (Hotel/Online) | Book online via travel sites or arranged by your Puri hotel. | ₹2,000 - ₹3,000+ | 1.5 - 2 hrs | Guaranteed service, meet-and-greet, specific car types. |
| Local Taxi (Off-App) | Negotiate with drivers outside the airport (not recommended). | ₹1,800 - ₹2,500 (Negotiate) | 1.5 - 2.5 hrs | Only if you are skilled at negotiation and know local rates. |
Route & Important Notes
The 65 km journey takes NH16 (Old NH5) southeast towards Chennai, then turns onto State Highway 8 (Marine Drive) into Puri. Traffic can be heavy near Cuttack and during pilgrim season.
Why choose a taxi?
- Late-Night/Early-Morning Flights: The only reliable option outside train/bus hours.
- Group of 3-4: Cost per person becomes competitive with train AC class.
- Heavy Luggage or Elderly Travelers: Door-to-door service eliminates transfers.
Warning: Politely decline offers from unauthorized touts inside the terminal. Always use the pre-paid counter or your pre-booked service.
Cost & Time Comparison: Best Way from BBI to Puri
This table summarizes all options to help you decide the best fit for your budget and priorities.
| Transport Mode | Total Est. Cost (Per Person)* | Total Est. Time (Door-to-Door)* | Transfers / Hassle | Comfort & Space | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Booked Taxi / Cab | ₹1,800 - ₹2,500 (for the car) | 1.5 - 2.5 hours | None (Direct) | High (Private, AC) | Families, groups, luxury, night travel, luggage |
| Train (AC Class) | ₹500 - ₹700 (Taxi + Ticket) | 3 - 4 hours | 2 (Taxi to BBS, Auto in Puri) | Medium-High (Seat guaranteed) | Solo/couple travelers, scenic journey, day travel |
| Train (General Class) | ₹200 - ₹350 | 3 - 4 hours | 2 | Low (Crowded, no seat guarantee) | Budget backpackers, short journeys |
| Bus (Public) | ₹250 - ₹400 | 3.5 - 4.5 hours | 2-3 (Taxi/Auto to stand, bus, auto in Puri) | Low-Medium | Ultra-budget travelers, no time constraints |
Verdict: For a balance of cost, comfort, and time, an app-based cab (Ola/Uber) or a train from BBS (AC Class) are the top recommendations for most tourists.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights
Navigate your journey like a pro with these practical, on-the-ground insights.
Essential Advice for a Smooth Trip
- Festival & Season Impact: During Ratha Yatra (June/July) and other major festivals, Puri is packed. Book everything (taxi, train, hotel) months in advance. Roads are extremely congested, doubling travel time.
- Mobile Data & Apps: Get a local SIM at the airport (Airtel/Jio). Reliable data is crucial for using Ola/Uber, Google Maps, and checking train status (eRail).
- Cash is King: While cabs and major stations accept digital payment, keep sufficient cash (₹1000-2000 in small notes) for autos, bus tickets, tips, and small vendors.
- Luggage Strategy: If traveling light, train/bus is fine. For heavy luggage, a taxi is worth the premium. No reliable luggage forwarding service exists for this short route.
- The "Puri Taxi Mafia" Awareness: At Puri station/beach, you may be aggressively approached by taxi/auto drivers. Politely say no and walk to the pre-paid auto counter or book an Ola.
- Weather Contingency: During the monsoon (July-September), check for train cancellations or road flooding on NH16 before finalizing your plan.
- Combining with Sightseeing: If you have a taxi for the day, consider stopping at the famous Lingaraj Temple (Bhubaneswar) or Dhauli Giri (Peace Pagoda) en route to Puri for a small extra fee.
FAQs: Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri Travel
What is the cheapest way to get from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri?
The absolute cheapest method is to take an auto-rickshaw (share or solo) to Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) for ~₹150, then purchase a General Class (unreserved) train ticket to Puri for ~₹30-50. Total cost can be under ₹200 per person. However, this requires time, flexibility, and tolerance for crowds.
What is the fastest way to get from BBI Airport to Puri?
A pre-booked or app-based taxi is the fastest point-to-point option, taking 1.5 to 2 hours under normal traffic conditions. It eliminates all waiting and transfer time associated with trains or buses.
Are there direct trains from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri?
No. Biju Patnaik Airport (BBI) does not have a railway station. You must first travel 6 km by road to Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) to catch a train to Puri (PURI). Many trains, including the frequent Puri Express, connect these two stations.
How much is a taxi from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri?
For a standard air-conditioned sedan (like Etios/Dzire), expect to pay between ₹1,800 to ₹2,500 for the entire car, depending on the service (pre-paid, Uber/Ola, private booking). This is a fixed cost, not per person.
Can I get a bus from BBI Airport directly to Puri?
No. There are no direct bus services operating from the airport terminal to Puri. You must first reach the Baramunda Interstate Bus Terminal (ISBT) via taxi or auto, and then board a state-run (OSRTC) or private bus to Puri.
Is it safe to travel from Bhubaneswar to Puri at night?
Yes, the route is generally safe. However, public transport options (trains, buses) are very limited post-10 PM. Your safest and most reliable option for a late-night arrival (post 10 PM) is a pre-paid taxi from the airport counter or a pre-booked private transfer.
What is the travel time from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri by train?
The total door-to-door travel time is typically 3 to 4 hours. This includes: 30-45 minutes to reach BBS station, 1.5-2 hours on the train itself, and 15-30 minutes for final transfer from Puri station to your hotel. Always check current schedules on IRCTC.
Is flying an option from Bhubaneswar to Puri?
No. Puri does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airport is the one you are arriving at, BBI. Therefore, flying is not an option for this segment of your journey. Your choices are restricted to road (taxi/bus) or rail.