Planning a spiritual journey from Varanasi to Puri? Travelling by train is one of the most convenient ways to reach the holy city of Puri in Odisha, famous for the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple, the annual Rath Yatra, and its beautiful coastline. Whether you are travelling with family, senior citizens, or fellow devotees, choosing the right train can make your pilgrimage more comfortable and affordable.
The distance between Varanasi and Puri is approximately 1,000–1,100 km by rail, depending on the train and route. Direct trains generally take around 20 hours, although journey times and schedules vary. Travellers can board at Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU), depending on the selected train.
In this guide, Miles of India explains the best trains from Varanasi to Puri, their timings, approximate ticket fares, railway routes, booking options, and essential travel tips to help you plan your journey.
Varanasi to Puri Train: Quick Overview
Before booking your ticket, here are the key details to know about the Varanasi to Puri train journey.
- Starting station: Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU)
- Destination station: Puri Railway Station (PURI)
- Approximate rail distance: 1,000–1,100 km, depending on the train
- Typical journey duration: Around 20 hours on direct trains
- Travel options: Sleeper Class, AC 3 Tier, AC 2 Tier, and other classes depending on the train
- Best for: Pilgrims visiting Jagannath Temple, families, and leisure travellers
Train availability, schedules, and fares can change. Always check the exact journey date on the official IRCTC website before booking.
Best Trains from Varanasi to Puri
Several trains operate between Varanasi or nearby DDU station and Puri. The most suitable option depends on your preferred departure time, boarding station, travel class, and seat availability.
1. Neelachal Express (12876)
Neelachal Express is a direct option for travellers who want to board at Varanasi Junction and travel to Puri without changing trains.
Train details:
- Train number: 12876
- Departure station: Varanasi Junction (BSB)
- Departure time: Approximately 9:50 PM
- Arrival station: Puri (PURI)
- Arrival time: Approximately 5:55 PM the following day
- Journey duration: Around 20 hours
- Best for: Travellers who prefer an evening departure from Varanasi
This train is worth considering if you want to board at Varanasi Junction itself. You can travel overnight and arrive in Puri the following afternoon or evening, depending on the operating schedule.
Before booking, confirm the running days, arrival time, and current seat availability for your date.
2. Purushottam Express (12802)
Purushottam Express is another important option for travellers heading to Puri. It generally departs from Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction rather than Varanasi Junction.
Train details:
- Train number: 12802
- Departure station: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU)
- Departure time: Approximately 9:50 AM
- Arrival station: Puri (PURI)
- Arrival time: Approximately 5:35–5:50 AM the following day
- Journey duration: Around 20 hours
- Best for: Travellers who prefer a morning departure from DDU
This train can be a convenient choice if you are comfortable travelling to DDU before departure. It provides a direct rail connection to Puri, helping you avoid a train change along the way.
Remember to allow sufficient time to reach DDU from Varanasi city.
3. Nandan Kanan Express (12816)
Nandan Kanan Express is another train to check when planning a journey from the Varanasi region to Puri. It generally departs from DDU and connects with Puri through eastern India.
Train details:
- Train number: 12816
- Departure station: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU)
- Departure time: Approximately 6:35 PM
- Arrival station: Puri (PURI)
- Arrival time: Approximately 2:15–2:50 PM the following day
- Journey duration: Around 20 hours
- Best for: Travellers who prefer an evening departure from DDU
This train may suit travellers who want to leave in the evening and reach Puri the following afternoon. Check its current timetable and operating days before making travel arrangements.
Which Train Is Best from Varanasi to Puri?
The best train depends on your departure preference and boarding station.
- For boarding at Varanasi Junction: Check Neelachal Express (12876).
- For a morning departure: Consider Purushottam Express (12802) from DDU.
- For an evening departure from DDU: Check Nandan Kanan Express (12816).
Train timings shown above are indicative and should not be treated as guaranteed live schedules. Verify the latest timetable before travelling.
Varanasi to Puri Train Ticket Fare
The train fare from Varanasi to Puri depends on the train, class of travel, booking quota, and applicable charges.
Sleeper Class is generally the economical option for budget-conscious travellers. AC 3 Tier and AC 2 Tier provide different levels of comfort for overnight travel, while First AC may be available on selected trains.
Approximate Train Ticket Prices
| Travel Class | Indicative One-Way Fare |
|---|---|
| General or unreserved, where available | Varies by train |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | ₹470–₹600 |
| AC 3 Tier (3A) | ₹1,250–₹1,500 |
| AC 2 Tier (2A) | ₹1,800–₹2,100 |
| First AC (1A) | ₹3,100–₹3,500 |
These are indicative fare ranges based on published route listings, not confirmed fares for a particular date. Actual prices may differ by train, distance, quota, and booking charges. Check the fare shown by IRCTC before payment.
Which Class Should You Choose?
Sleeper Class: A suitable choice for travellers who want to keep costs low and are comfortable with non-AC overnight travel.
AC 3 Tier: A practical option for many families and pilgrims looking for air-conditioned accommodation at a moderate price.
AC 2 Tier: Worth considering if you prefer fewer berths per compartment and more space.
First AC: May suit travellers seeking a more private and comfortable journey, subject to availability on the selected train.
For families travelling with senior citizens, an air-conditioned class may be more comfortable, depending on personal preferences and budget.
Varanasi to Puri Train Route
Trains travelling from the Varanasi region to Puri generally cross parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar or Jharkhand, and West Bengal before entering Odisha. The exact route and stopping stations depend on the selected train.
A typical route may include some of the following stations:
- Varanasi Junction or Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction
- Sasaram
- Gaya or other stations along the selected route
- Dhanbad or Adra, depending on the train
- Kharagpur
- Balasore
- Cuttack or Khurda Road
- Puri
Not every train stops at all these stations. Some trains follow different routes, so check the train-specific timetable when planning your journey.
Can You Board at Varanasi Junction or DDU?
Yes, but the boarding station depends on the train.
Neelachal Express is a direct option from Varanasi Junction, while Purushottam Express and Nandan Kanan Express generally depart from DDU on this route.
DDU is located outside central Varanasi, so account for the additional road journey if your ticket starts there. Make sure the boarding station printed on your ticket matches the station where you intend to board.
How to Book Varanasi to Puri Train Tickets
You can book tickets online through IRCTC or use an authorised railway ticket-booking service.
Follow these steps to book your journey:
- Visit the official IRCTC website.
- Enter your starting station, such as Varanasi Junction (BSB) or DDU.
- Enter Puri (PURI) as your destination.
- Select your intended travel date.
- Review the available trains, departure times, and journey durations.
- Choose your preferred class and check seat availability.
- Enter the passenger details and complete payment.
- Save your ticket confirmation and check the final journey details before departure.
For popular travel dates, booking in advance is advisable. If your preferred train is full, compare other trains, nearby boarding stations, and available travel dates before choosing an alternative.
What If Direct Train Tickets Are Not Available?
If seats are unavailable on your preferred train, you have several alternatives.
First, check other direct trains from Varanasi Junction and DDU. You can also compare trains to Bhubaneswar (BBS), followed by a road or rail connection to Puri.
Bhubaneswar is approximately 60 km from Puri by road, although the actual travel time depends on traffic and your mode of transport.
A connecting journey may provide more options, but remember to allow enough time between trains and account for the extra cost of local transport.
Always compare the total journey time and fare rather than choosing a connection based only on its departure time.
Travel Tips for Varanasi to Puri by Train
A long-distance train journey becomes easier with a little preparation. Keep these tips in mind before leaving Varanasi.
1. Book Your Ticket Early
Puri is an important pilgrimage destination, and trains can become busy during school holidays, weekends, and major religious festivals. Booking early gives you a better chance of securing your preferred class.
2. Check Your Boarding Station Carefully
Do not confuse Varanasi Junction with Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction. They are different stations, and travelling to the wrong station can cause you to miss your train.
3. Carry Essential Items
Keep your ticket, identification, medicines, phone charger, and other necessary belongings accessible. For an overnight journey, a light blanket or travel pillow may also be useful, depending on your coach and personal preferences.
4. Confirm Your Arrival Time
If you plan to visit Jagannath Temple immediately after reaching Puri, keep your schedule flexible. Delays, queues, and temple rituals may affect your plans.
5. Arrange Accommodation in Advance
Booking a hotel before arrival can make your trip more convenient, especially if you reach Puri early in the morning or during a festival.
6. Keep Your Return Journey in Mind
If you plan to return to Varanasi after your pilgrimage, check the return train schedule and seat availability before finalising your itinerary.
What to Do After Reaching Puri?
After arriving at Puri Railway Station, you can arrange a local taxi or other transport to reach your hotel or the temple area.
Most visitors make Jagannath Temple darshan their priority, followed by sightseeing around the city.
If you need help planning the pilgrimage, explore the Jagannath Puri Darshan Tour Package offered by Miles of India.
Depending on your schedule, you may also visit Puri Beach, Gundicha Temple, or plan an excursion to Konark Sun Temple.
Travellers who want to explore more of Odisha can browse the Odisha Tour Package for ideas on combining Puri with other destinations.
Suggested Itinerary for a Varanasi to Puri Train Trip
A two- or three-day stay in Puri can give you time for temple darshan and nearby sightseeing. Your actual itinerary should depend on your arrival time and the current temple schedule.
Day 1: Travel from Varanasi to Puri
Board your selected train from Varanasi Junction or DDU. Keep your travel essentials ready and check your train’s running status before departure.
Day 2: Arrive in Puri and Visit Jagannath Temple
After arriving in Puri, check in to your accommodation or arrange luggage storage if your room is not yet available. Plan your temple visit according to the current darshan schedule.
If time permits, visit nearby attractions after darshan.
Day 3: Explore Puri and Nearby Attractions
Explore Puri Beach, Gundicha Temple, or other local attractions. If your schedule permits, consider a visit to Konark Sun Temple before continuing your journey or returning home.
If you arrive late or want a more relaxed pilgrimage, add another day rather than rushing between attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to travel from Varanasi to Puri by train?
Direct trains generally take around 20 hours, although the exact duration varies by train, route, and timetable.
2. What is the distance from Varanasi to Puri by train?
The rail distance is approximately 1,000–1,100 km, depending on the train and its route.
3. Which is the best train from Varanasi to Puri?
Neelachal Express (12876) is worth checking if you want to board at Varanasi Junction. Purushottam Express (12802) and Nandan Kanan Express (12816) are alternatives from DDU. The best option depends on your travel date, boarding station, and seat availability.
4. What is the ticket price from Varanasi to Puri?
Indicative one-way fares range from approximately ₹470–₹600 for Sleeper Class and ₹1,250–₹1,500 for AC 3 Tier. Actual fares depend on the train, class, and booking conditions.
5. Are there direct trains from Varanasi to Puri?
Yes. Direct options include Neelachal Express, Purushottam Express, and Nandan Kanan Express, although their boarding stations and operating schedules differ. Check the latest timetable for your intended date.
6. Can I travel from Varanasi to Puri via Bhubaneswar?
Yes. You can take a train to Bhubaneswar and continue to Puri by road or rail. This may be useful if direct train seats are unavailable, but compare the full journey time and cost.
7. How far is Puri Railway Station from Jagannath Temple?
Puri Railway Station is only a few kilometres from the temple area. The exact distance and travel time depend on your destination within the city and current traffic conditions.
8. When should I book my Varanasi to Puri train ticket?
Booking as early as possible within the applicable railway reservation window is advisable, particularly during holidays and major festivals. Confirm the current booking rules on IRCTC.
Conclusion
Travelling from Varanasi to Puri by train is a practical option for devotees planning a visit to Shree Jagannath Temple. With journey times generally around 20 hours on direct services, you can compare trains such as Neelachal Express, Purushottam Express, and Nandan Kanan Express to find the option that best suits your schedule.
Before booking, confirm the departure station, current timetable, ticket fare, and seat availability. Planning your accommodation and local transport in advance will also help make your pilgrimage more comfortable.
For assistance with your onward travel and sightseeing, explore the Jagannath Puri Darshan Tour Package or discover more destinations through the Odisha Tour Package by Miles of India.
Plan ahead and enjoy a memorable journey from the spiritual city of Varanasi to the sacred coastal destination of Puri.