How to Reach Bhubaneswar from Haridwar

Bhubaneswar, often called the “Temple City of India,” is a historical and culturally rich city in Odisha, Eastern India. If you’re traveling from the spiritual city of Haridwar to Bhubaneswar, you’re looking at a significant cross-country journey. The fastest way to get there is by combining a short road trip with a flight, though trains offer a direct and traditional alternative.

Distance Between Haridwar and Bhubaneswar

The approximate distance between Haridwar and Bhubaneswar varies depending on your mode of transport:

• By Air (via Dehradun Airport): The aerial distance between Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, nearest to Haridwar) and Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) is around 1,300-1,340 kilometers.
• By Train: Approximately 2,300-2,350 kilometers.
• By Road: Around 1,500-1,950 kilometers.

How to Reach Bhubaneswar from Haridwar

Here’s a breakdown of the different ways to travel:

1. By Air (Fastest and Most Convenient Option)

This is typically the quickest way to travel from Haridwar to Bhubaneswar, combining a short road trip and a flight.

• Steps:
  1. Haridwar to Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport – DED): Your journey begins with a taxi ride from Haridwar to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This road trip covers about 37-41 km and usually takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Taxi fares generally range from ₹1,250 to ₹2,800 depending on the vehicle type.
  2. Dehradun (DED) to Bhubaneswar (Biju Patnaik International Airport – BBI): From Dehradun, you can catch a flight to Bhubaneswar.
     • Flight Duration: Direct flights from Dehradun to Bhubaneswar typically take about 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Connecting flights, often with a layover in cities like New Delhi, will take longer, usually between 4.5 to 12+ hours depending on the layover duration.
     • Airlines: IndiGo is a major airline offering direct flights on this route. Other airlines like Air India also offer connecting flights.
     • Ticket Price Estimates: One-way flight fares can vary significantly depending on how far in advance you book, the airline, and demand. For July 2025, prices can start from around ₹5,200 to ₹7,000 for direct options, but can go up to ₹15,000 or more during peak times or for last-minute bookings.
  3. Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) to Bhubaneswar City: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) is well-connected to the city center. You can easily find pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola/Uber), or auto-rickshaws to reach your final destination in Bhubaneswar. Travel time to central areas can be 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Total Journey Time (approx.): The entire journey, including travel to Dehradun airport, flight time, and transfer within Bhubaneswar, can be completed in approximately 4.5 to 8 hours for direct flights and efficient transfers.
• Pros: By far the fastest way to cover the long distance. More comfortable for a long journey.
• Cons: Generally the most expensive travel option. Involves transfers between different modes of transport and potential waiting times at airports.
• Tips: Book your flights as early as possible to secure better prices. Direct flights are always preferable for saving time.

2. By Train (Recommended for Budget and Experience)

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for long distances in India, offering a chance to relax and see the country.

• Journey Time: This is a very long train journey. The only direct train from Haridwar to Bhubaneswar, the Kalinga Utkal Express (18478), typically takes around 42 hours 41 minutes.
• Train Stations:
  • From Haridwar: Haridwar Junction (HW) is the main station.
  • To Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar (BBS) is the main station.
• Frequency: The Kalinga Utkal Express (18478) runs daily.
• Types of Trains: You can choose from various classes, including Sleeper (SL), AC 3-tier Economy (3E), AC 3-tier (3A), AC 2-tier (2A), and AC First Class (1A).
• Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can range significantly based on the class: from approximately ₹815-₹1,100 (Sleeper Class) to ₹2,045-₹5,500 (AC classes) or more. For example, a Sleeper class ticket might cost around ₹815, while an AC 3-tier ticket could be around ₹2,145, and AC 1st Class around ₹5,355.
• Pros: Can be a much more economical option than flying. Offers a comfortable way to travel overnight, especially in AC classes. You get to experience the Indian landscape.
• Cons: Very long journey duration (over 1.5 days). Tickets, especially for AC classes, can be in high demand and require booking well in advance.
• Tips: Check the Indian Railways (IRCTC) website or other popular travel platforms (like RailYatri, ConfirmTkt, MakeMyTrip) for the most current train schedules, availability, and fare options. Book your tickets as early as possible, especially during holiday seasons.

3. By Road (Very Long and Challenging Drive)

Driving from Haridwar to Bhubaneswar is an extremely long journey and is generally not recommended unless you are undertaking a multi-day road trip with multiple drivers or have specific reasons for choosing road travel.

• Distance: Approximately 1,500-1,950 kilometers. Specifically, the driving distance is around 1,590-1,950 km.
• Journey Time: A continuous drive would take at least 23-33 hours, not including significant stops for food, rest, and sleep. This trip would realistically require at least two overnight stops.
• Routes: The common route involves driving south from Haridwar towards New Delhi, then taking major national highways (like NH19/AH1) through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and finally into Odisha to Bhubaneswar. Using a reliable GPS with real-time traffic updates is crucial.
• Self-Drive:
  • Pros: Offers complete flexibility to stop and explore places along the way. Can be cost-effective for a group if vehicle running costs are shared.
  • Cons: Extremely long and tiring. High fuel costs and numerous toll charges. Requires multiple drivers and careful planning to avoid fatigue. Road conditions can vary in certain stretches.
• Hiring a Taxi/Cab:
  • Pros: Convenient as you don’t have to drive. Provides door-to-door service.
  • Cons: Very expensive due to the long distance and the driver’s return journey. Can still be very tiring for passengers.
  • Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi could cost upwards of ₹21,000 to ₹35,000 or more, depending on the vehicle type and service provider.
• Tips: If you choose this option, plan your route meticulously, ensuring you factor in ample rest periods and overnight stays. Confirm road conditions, especially during monsoon season, and be aware of any local driving regulations.

4. By Bus (Least Recommended for Direct Journey)

Due to the extreme distance, a direct bus service from Haridwar to Bhubaneswar is highly unlikely and would be an exceptionally long and uncomfortable journey.

• Journey Time: If available, a direct bus could take 35-50 hours or even more. More commonly, you would need to take multiple buses with long layovers in major cities like New Delhi, making the journey fragmented and highly inconvenient.
• Operators & Types: You might find very limited private operators or state transport corporations offering connecting services. Comfort levels would vary greatly.
• Pros: Potentially the most economical option if you piece together very cheap bus segments.
• Cons: Extremely long travel time. Very uncomfortable for such a long distance. Frequent stops and potential for significant delays. Not ideal for travelers with much luggage.
• Tips: This mode is generally not recommended for such a long journey due to the discomfort and time involved. Consider it only if other options are not feasible and you are prepared for a very long and challenging journey.

Considering the vast distance, flying is the most practical and efficient way to travel from Haridwar to Bhubaneswar, saving a lot of time. For those looking for a more traditional Indian travel experience and a more budget-friendly option, the train is a popular and comfortable alternative, provided you are prepared for the very long journey.