Jagannath Puri Nearest Airport: Distance, Travel Time & Best Ways to Reach Puri
Planning a trip to Puri for the sacred Jagannath Temple, beautiful beaches, and Odisha’s rich culture? If you are travelling by air, knowing the Jagannath Puri nearest airport, distance, travel time, and transport options can make your journey much easier.
Puri does not currently have a commercial airport of its own. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, located approximately 60 km from Puri. This is the main airport we recommend for travellers arriving in Odisha by flight.
At Puri Tourism, we help travellers plan a comfortable journey from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri with suitable transportation and local travel assistance. Whether you are visiting for the Jagannath Temple, a family holiday, a spiritual trip, or a Puri-Konark itinerary, this guide will help you choose the best way to reach Puri.
What Is the Nearest Airport to Jagannath Puri?
The nearest airport to Jagannath Puri is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneswar. The airport is located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, and serves as the main air gateway for travelers visiting Puri.
Since Puri does not have its own operational commercial airport, flying to Bhubaneswar and then traveling to Puri is the most practical option for visitors coming from distant cities or overseas.
Quick Airport Details
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport
- Airport Code: BBI
- Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- Approximate Distance to Puri: 60 km
- Approximate Road Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Best Transfer Options: Private taxi, cab, bus or connecting train
- Best for Families: Direct private taxi
- Best for Convenience: Pre-booked airport-to-Puri transfer
How Far Is Bhubaneswar Airport from Puri?
Bhubaneswar Airport is approximately 60 km from Puri.
The exact distance can vary slightly depending on your route and where you are staying in Puri. For example, the distance to a hotel near Puri Beach may differ from the distance to accommodation closer to Shree Jagannath Temple.
Bhubaneswar Airport is approximately 60–65 km from Puri, depending on the exact route and destination within Puri.
Quick Travel Details
- Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneswar
- Distance to Puri: Around 60–65 km
- By Car/Taxi: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
- By Train: You can travel from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to Puri Railway Station after reaching the city from the airport.
- Most Convenient: A direct taxi or private cab from the airport to your hotel in Puri.
The journey is mainly via NH316, offering a straightforward road connection between Bhubaneswar and Puri.
How Long Does It Take from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri?
Under normal road conditions, the journey from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri generally takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
However, travel time can change because of:
- Traffic in Bhubaneswar
- Weekend travel
- Festival periods
- Rath Yatra and other major events
- Monsoon weather
- Road conditions
- Your exact hotel location in Puri
During major festivals, we recommend allowing additional travel time rather than planning your airport transfer too tightly.
Best Ways to Reach Puri from Bhubaneswar Airport
If you are arriving at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), reaching Puri is quite easy. The airport is around 60–65 km from Puri, and travelers have several options depending on their budget, comfort, and time.
1.Taxi or Private Cab — Best for Comfort
Taking a taxi or private cab directly from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri is the most convenient option. You can travel directly to your hotel without changing transportation.
- Travel time: Around 1.5–2 hours
- Best for: Families, couples, groups, and travelers with luggage
- Advantage: Door-to-door travel
- Tip: Confirm the fare before starting the journey.
2.Airport Bus + Train — Budget-Friendly Option
For travelers looking to save money, you can travel from the airport toward Bhubaneswar Railway Station and then take a train to Puri.
- Bhubaneswar to Puri train: Usually around 1–1.5 hours
- Best for: Budget travelers
- Advantage: Frequent rail connectivity
- Consideration: You need to change transportation in Bhubaneswar.
3.Bus — Affordable Choice
Another economical option is to take a bus from Bhubaneswar toward Puri. Depending on the service and where you board, the journey generally takes around 2–3 hours.
- Best for: Solo and budget travelers
- Cost: Generally cheaper than a private taxi
- Consideration: Travel time can vary with traffic and stops.
4. App-Based Cab — Convenient for Independent Travelers
You can also check available app-based cab services from Bhubaneswar Airport. This can be useful if you prefer booking your ride through your phone and want a direct journey to Puri.
Which Option Is Best?
| Travel Option | Approx. Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi/Cab | 1.5–2 hours | Comfort & convenience |
| Train | 1–1.5 hours + airport transfer | Budget travelers |
| Bus | 2–3 hours | Low-cost travel |
| App-Based Cab | 1.5–2 hours | Easy direct travel |
Overall, a private taxi or cab is the best choice for most first-time visitors, while the train is a good option if keeping transportation costs low is your priority.
Which Is the Best Way to Reach Puri from the Airport?
For most travelers, taking a private taxi or cab from Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) to Puri is the best and most convenient option. The journey covers approximately 60–65 km and usually takes around 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic and your exact destination in Puri.
A direct cab is especially suitable for families, senior travelers, couples, and visitors carrying luggage because it provides door-to-door transportation without changing vehicles.
For budget travelers, taking a train from Bhubaneswar to Puri can be a more economical choice, although you will first need to travel from the airport to Bhubaneswar Railway Station.
Best choice by travel need:
- Private cab: Best overall for comfort and convenience
- Train: Best for budget-conscious travelers
- Bus: Best for economical road travel
- Family/group: Private cab is usually the easiest option
Why Book an Airport-to-Puri Transfer in Advance?
Booking your Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri transfer in advance can make your arrival smoother, especially if you are visiting Puri for the first time. Instead of searching for transportation after landing, you can have your journey planned before you arrive.
1.Guaranteed Pickup at the Airport
With a pre-booked transfer, your driver can be scheduled to meet you at the airport and take you directly to your destination in Puri.
2.Avoid Last-Minute Transportation Stress
After a long flight, finding a suitable taxi or negotiating transportation can be inconvenient. Advance booking lets you start your Puri journey without unnecessary waiting or confusion.
3.Know Your Travel Cost in Advance
Pre-booking allows you to confirm the transfer fare before your journey, making it easier to plan your travel budget.
4.Convenient for Families and Groups
If you are traveling with children, elderly family members, or several pieces of luggage, a pre-arranged private vehicle can provide considerably more convenience than changing between buses, trains, and local transport.
5.Direct Door-to-Door Travel
A private airport transfer can take you directly from Bhubaneswar Airport to your hotel, resort, or other destination in Puri, without requiring multiple transportation changes.
6.Useful During Festivals and Busy Travel Seasons
Puri can become particularly busy during major festivals and holidays. Booking transportation ahead of time can help you avoid the uncertainty of arranging a vehicle at the last minute.
7.Start Your Puri Trip Comfortably
After landing at Bhubaneswar Airport, you can simply collect your luggage, meet your driver, and begin your journey toward Puri. For travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a hassle-free arrival, advance airport transfer booking is a practical choice.
What Can You See on the Way to Puri?
The road from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri is more than just a transfer—it gives you your first glimpse of Odisha’s culture, countryside, temples, and local life. As you travel toward Puri, you can enjoy several interesting sights along the route.
1.Bhubaneswar’s Temple Architecture
As you leave Bhubaneswar, you may notice the city’s distinctive temple architecture and traditional Odia influence. Bhubaneswar is known for its historic temples, making the beginning of your journey culturally interesting.
2.Rural Odisha and Village Life
As the city gradually gives way to the countryside, the scenery becomes greener and quieter. You can see paddy fields, village homes, roadside markets, ponds, and local farms, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Odisha.
3.Dhauli Peace Pagoda
Depending on your route and itinerary, Dhauli can be visited as a short sightseeing stop near Bhubaneswar. The hill is famous for the Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) and its connection with Emperor Ashoka.
4.Pipili Appliqué Village
One of the most interesting cultural stops near the Puri route is Pipili, famous for its colourful traditional appliqué artwork. Shops along the road display umbrellas, wall hangings, lampshades, bags, and other handcrafted products.
5.Scenic Countryside
The drive toward Puri features stretches of green agricultural fields, palm trees, village roads, ponds, and open landscapes. During and after the monsoon, the countryside can look particularly lush and refreshing.
6.Traditional Odia Culture
Along the way, you may see small temples, local shops, roadside food stalls, and traditional houses. These everyday scenes offer an authentic introduction to Odisha before you reach the more tourist-focused areas of Puri.
7.Puri’s Coastal Atmosphere
As you get closer to Puri, the atmosphere gradually changes. Tourist activity increases, and you begin to feel the coastal character of the city. Soon, you arrive in the famous pilgrimage destination known for Lord Jagannath, the Jagannath Temple, and Puri Beach.
Travel tip: If you have extra time, consider turning your airport-to-Puri transfer into a short sightseeing journey by adding selected stops such as Dhauli and Pipili. This can make your first day in Odisha more memorable rather than treating the drive as only transportation.
Airport Transfer for Families and Senior Citizens
For families traveling with children or senior citizens, a pre-booked private airport transfer from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri can make the journey much more comfortable. Puri is about 62 km from Bhubaneswar, according to Odisha Tourism.
Why a Private Transfer Is a Good Choice
- Door-to-door convenience: Travel directly from the airport to your Puri hotel without changing buses or trains.
- Comfortable journey: A private, air-conditioned vehicle gives your family more space and flexibility.
- Less walking: This can be particularly helpful for elderly passengers who may find multiple transfers inconvenient.
- Luggage assistance: A pre-arranged driver can assist with luggage during airport pickup and hotel drop-off.
- Flexible pickup: Your transfer can be arranged around your flight arrival time.
- Suitable vehicle options: Families can choose a larger vehicle when traveling with several passengers or extra luggage.
Choose the Right Vehicle
For 2–3 passengers with light luggage, a sedan can be sufficient. For families carrying more luggage, an Ertiga or similar larger vehicle can provide additional space. For senior citizens or larger families who prefer extra comfort, an Innova-type vehicle is a practical choice.
Travel Tip for Senior Citizens
When booking, mention that you are traveling with elderly passengers. Request a comfortable vehicle, minimal waiting at the airport, luggage assistance, and a convenient drop point in Puri. During major festivals or periods of heavy crowds, road access near the Jagannath Temple can be restricted, so confirm the final drop point in advance.
For families and senior citizens, a pre-booked private airport transfer is generally the most convenient way to begin a Puri trip after landing at Bhubaneswar Airport.
Best Time to Travel from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri
The best time to travel from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri is generally from October to March, when the weather is more comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits. Odisha Tourism describes Puri as having hot, humid summers and pleasant winters, while the broader coastal region is most comfortable during the cooler months.
| Time / Season | Weather & Road Conditions | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| October – February | Cool and pleasant | Comfortable for road travel and sightseeing |
| March – April | Warm but manageable | Good for daytime travel with an air-conditioned vehicle |
| May – June | Hot and humid | Prefer morning or evening travel |
| July – September | Monsoon; occasional rain | Green and scenic, but allow extra travel time during heavy rain |
| Early Morning | Generally cooler and less busy | Good for reaching Puri early and starting sightseeing |
| Late Morning – Afternoon | Warmer, with possible traffic | Suitable if your flight arrives around this time |
| Evening | Cooler than afternoon | Convenient for travelers arriving later in the day |
| Late Night | Less daylight and fewer sightseeing opportunities | Suitable mainly when matching your flight arrival |
Best Choice
For the most comfortable journey, book your airport transfer for an early-morning departure during October to March. If you are traveling during Rath Yatra or other major Puri festivals, allow considerably more travel time because the Bhubaneswar–Puri corridor can experience severe congestion. Recent 2026 festival traffic advisories have reported major delays on this route.
Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri: Quick Travel Guide
If you want the information at a glance:
- Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneswar
- Destination: Puri, Odisha
- Distance: Approximately 60 km
- Travel Time: Around 1.5–2 hours by road under normal conditions
- Best Option: Private airport taxi
- Budget Option: Bus or train connection
- Best for Families: Direct private vehicle
- Main Attraction: Shree Jagannath Temple
- Other Attractions: Puri Beach, Swargadwar, Gundicha Temple, Narendra Sarovar and nearby destinations
Reaching Puri from Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar is simple and convenient, with the airport located about 62 km from Jagannath Temple, Puri. Travelers can choose between private taxis, buses, trains, or other local transportation depending on their budget, comfort, and travel plans.
For a smooth arrival, you can plan your airport transfer in advance and travel directly to your hotel in Puri. Once there, you can explore the spiritual atmosphere of Jagannath Temple, enjoy Puri Beach, and discover nearby attractions such as Raghurajpur and Konark.
With the right transportation planned ahead, your journey from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri can be comfortable, convenient, and a great beginning to your Odisha travel experience.
FAQs
1.What is the nearest airport to Jagannath Puri?
The nearest airport to Puri is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, located about 60 km from Puri. It is the main airport used by visitors traveling to Jagannath Temple.
2.How far is Bhubaneswar Airport from Puri?
Bhubaneswar Airport is approximately 60–65 km from Puri, depending on the route and destination. By road, the journey generally takes around 1.5 hours, although traffic can affect travel time.
3.How long does it take to reach Puri from Bhubaneswar Airport?
A direct road journey from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri usually takes around 1.5–2 hours. Travel time can vary depending on traffic, weather, and your exact destination in Puri.
4.What is the best way to reach Puri from Bhubaneswar Airport?
A private taxi or cab is one of the most convenient options because it provides a direct journey from the airport to your hotel or destination in Puri. It is particularly convenient for families and travelers carrying luggage.
5.Is there an airport in Puri?
Puri does not currently have a commercial airport. Travelers arriving by air generally fly to Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport and continue to Puri by road or rail.
6.Can I travel from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri by train?
Yes. You can travel from the airport to Bhubaneswar Railway Station and then take a train to Puri. Puri is a major railway terminus with direct train connections to several cities.
7.Are buses available from Bhubaneswar to Puri?
Yes, regular bus services connect Bhubaneswar and Puri. If arriving at the airport, you may need local transport to reach the appropriate bus point before continuing to Puri.
8.How far is Jagannath Temple from Bhubaneswar Airport?
The distance from Bhubaneswar Airport to Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is roughly 60–70 km by road, depending on the route and exact starting point. Odisha Tourism lists Bhubaneswar as the nearest airport and gives the distance from Bhubaneswar to the temple area as about 62 km.
9.What is the cheapest way to reach Puri from Bhubaneswar Airport?
For travelers focused on saving money, public transport with a train connection can be more economical than a private taxi. However, it requires additional transportation between the airport and Bhubaneswar Railway Station.
10.Is it better to book an airport transfer to Puri in advance?
Advance booking can make the arrival more convenient, especially for families, senior citizens, groups, or travelers arriving late. A pre-arranged private transfer allows you to travel directly from the airport to your Puri accommodation without arranging transportation after landing.