The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is not only one of India’s most sacred Hindu temples but also a prominent pilgrimage site. Located on the eastern coast of India, Puri is renowned for its cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and, of course, the iconic Jagannath Temple. If you’re planning to visit this spiritual and architectural marvel, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach the Jagannath Temple.
By Air
The nearest airport to Puri is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in the state capital, Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) away. Upon arrival at the airport, you have several options to reach Puri. You can hire a taxi, take a pre-paid taxi service, or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Ola, which are readily available at the airport. The journey from the airport to Puri usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Train
Puri is well-connected by rail, and the Puri Railway Station is one of the main railway hubs in Odisha. Trains from various major cities across India, including Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai, connect to Puri. It’s advisable to check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, to secure your journey to Puri by train.
From Bhubaneswar Railway Station
- Distance: Approximately 60 kilometers
- Bhubaneswar Railway Station is well-connected to Puri, and several trains, including express and passenger trains, run on this route. The journey by train takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
From Kolkata (Howrah Junction)
- Distance: Approximately 500 kilometers
- You can take a train from Howrah Junction in Kolkata to Puri. The journey takes around 7 to 9 hours, and several trains, including superfast and express trains, serve this route.
From Visakhapatnam
- Distance: Approximately 450 kilometers
- Visakhapatnam is connected to Puri by rail, with trains taking about 6 to 8 hours for the journey.
From Hyderabad (Secunderabad Junction)
- Distance: Approximately 1,055 kilometers
- Trains from Secunderabad Junction in Hyderabad to Puri are available, and the journey typically takes around 24 to 30 hours, depending on the train’s route and speed.
From Delhi (New Delhi Railway Station)
- Distance: Approximately 1,800 kilometers
- Trains from New Delhi Railway Station to Puri are available. The journey takes around 28 to 36 hours, and you can choose from a range of train options, including superfast, express, and others.
From Chennai (Chennai Central)
- Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers
- Chennai Central is connected to Puri by various trains. The journey typically takes around 24 to 30 hours.
From Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus)
- Distance: Approximately 1,800 kilometers
- You can take a train from Mumbai to Puri, with the journey taking approximately 36 to 40 hours.
By Road
Puri is well-connected by an extensive road network, allowing for travel by road from various cities and towns in Odisha and neighboring states. If you prefer to travel by road, you have several options:
- Self-Driving: You can drive to Puri in your own vehicle. The roads leading to Puri are generally in good condition, and the drive can be a picturesque experience, particularly if you choose the coastal route.
- Bus Services: Numerous government and private bus services operate routes to Puri from nearby cities and towns. These buses provide various levels of comfort and pricing, catering to different budgets and preferences.
- Taxis: Taxis can also be hired for a more comfortable and personalized journey to Puri. Ensure that you negotiate the fare with the driver before setting out on your journey.
Once you reach Puri by road, you will find it easy to access the Jagannath Temple. It is located in the heart of the town, and while motor vehicles are not allowed within the temple complex, you can walk or take a cycle rickshaw from your drop-off point to reach the temple.
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Local Transportation
After reaching Puri, moving around the town is relatively straightforward. The Jagannath Temple is situated in a bustling part of the town, and you can explore the area by walking or using cycle rickshaws, which are traditional and eco-friendly modes of transportation within the temple vicinity. These cycle rickshaws are readily available and provide an authentic and leisurely experience as you approach the temple.
Route Map and Distance from Major Cities
1- Bhubaneswar to Jagannath Temple, Puri:
- Distance: Approximately 60 kilometers
- Time by Road: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Route: Bhubaneswar – NH16 (National Highway 16) – Puri
- Route Map:
- From Bhubaneswar, head towards the Jagannath Temple on NH16, which is a well-maintained highway connecting the two cities. Follow the road signs for Puri, and you will reach the temple town with ease.
2- Kolkata to Jagannath Temple, Puri:
- Distance: Approximately 500 kilometers
- Time by Road: 10 to 12 hours
- Route: Kolkata – NH16 – Puri
- Route Map:
- Take NH16 from Kolkata and follow this route southward. As you approach Puri, you’ll find signposts guiding you to the Jagannath Temple.
3- Visakhapatnam to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 447 kilometers
- Time by Road: 7 to 8 hours
- Route: Visakhapatnam – NH16 – Puri
- Route Map:
- Drive along NH16 from Visakhapatnam towards Puri. This route offers scenic views of the coastline and will lead you directly to the temple.
4- Hyderabad to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 1,050 kilometers
- Time by Road: 24 to 26 hours
- Route: Hyderabad – NH65 – NH16 – Puri
- Route Map:
- Begin your journey on NH65 and then merge onto NH16. The road trip from Hyderabad to Puri is a long one, so make sure to plan for stops along the way.
5- Delhi to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 1,800 kilometers
Time by Road: 30 to 32 hours
Route: Delhi – NH44 – NH53 – NH27 – NH16 – Puri
Route Map: - Your journey from Delhi to Puri involves multiple highways. Start on NH44, then transition to NH53, NH27, and finally onto NH16 as you approach Puri. This is a substantial road trip, so plan your stops accordingly.
6- Chennai to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers
Time by Road: 22 to 24 hours
Route: Chennai – NH16 – Puri
Route Map: - Drive north on NH16 from Chennai towards Puri. This is a long journey, so be sure to plan rest breaks and accommodations along the way.
7- Mumbai to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 1,800 kilometers
- Time by Road: 32 to 34 hours
- Route: Mumbai – NH66 – NH16 – Puri
- Route Map:
- Take NH66 and then connect to NH16 on your way to Puri from Mumbai. This is a long road trip, so plan your journey with overnight stops.
8- Bangalore to Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Distance: Approximately 1,400 kilometers
Time by Road: 26 to 28 hours
Route: Bangalore – NH48 – NH65 – NH16 – Puri
Route Map: - Start your journey on NH48 and make your way to NH65 and finally NH16. The road trip from Bangalore to Puri is lengthy, so plan your stops accordingly.
In addition to these major cities, you can also reach the Jagannath Temple, Puri, from several other towns and cities within Odisha and neighboring states. It’s important to keep in mind that road conditions may vary, and traffic can impact travel times, so it’s advisable to check for real-time traffic updates and road conditions before starting your journey.
When you reach Puri, you’ll find ample parking facilities near the temple. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple entrance. Please note that the temple has specific visiting hours, and non-Hindus are generally not allowed inside the main sanctum. Be sure to check the temple’s official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and any special rituals or festivals.
Before you embark on your journey, make sure your vehicle is in good condition, carry essential supplies, and have a detailed road map or GPS device to navigate the route with ease. Enjoy your visit to the Jagannath Temple and have a spiritually enriching experience.
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