Leaving the chaotic charm of the Hooghly River behind for the ancient temple spires of Odisha is a classic Indian rail journey that connects two of the country's most culturally significant regions. While Howrah serves as the massive gateway for West Bengal, Bhubaneswar welcomes you with the serenity of its sandstone heritage and modern planned boulevards. This route is a favorite for pilgrims heading to Puri and business travelers alike, offering a transition from the colonial grandeur of Kolkata to the spiritual heart of the East.
The journey spans approximately 440 kilometers, and your choice of transport will likely depend on whether you prefer the iconic experience of an Indian Express train, the speed of a short hop flight, or the flexibility of an overnight bus. You can easily compare these modes and book your preferred tickets on GoAsia.cc to ensure a smooth transition between these two bustling hubs.
Howrah to Bhubaneswar by Train
The train is arguably the most iconic way to travel this route. Howrah Junction is one of the busiest railway complexes in the world, and the ride into Bhubaneswar takes you through the lush green paddies of Bengal and the scenic landscapes of coastal Odisha. Prices for this journey are incredibly accessible, ranging from $6 to $33 depending on the level of comfort you choose. The duration is quite manageable, typically taking between 5 hours 18 minutes and 6 hours 23 minutes.
Travel Classes on the Train
Indian Railways offers a staggering variety of classes on this route. For those on a tight budget or looking for a short daytime trip, the Second Sitting (2S) and AC Chair Class (CC) are popular choices. The CC class provides air-conditioned comfort in a 2x3 seating arrangement, perfect for reading a book while the countryside flashes by. If you are looking for a premium experience, the Executive Chair Class (EC) offers more legroom and enhanced catering services on premier trains like the Shatabdi Express.
For overnight journeys or those who prefer to lie down, the sleeper options are plentiful. AC First Class (1A) provides the highest privacy with lockable compartments, while AC 2-Tier (2A) and AC 3-Tier (3A/3E) offer varying levels of density and price. The standard Sleeper Class (SL) is non-air-conditioned and provides a raw, authentic experience of Indian rail travel, though it can get dusty and crowded during peak seasons.
Kolkata to Bhubaneswar by Flight
If time is your primary concern, flying from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the most efficient method. The flight duration is remarkably short, often taking just 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes. With prices ranging from $42 to $105, it is a competitive option for those who want to avoid the long hours on the tracks or road.
Economy class is the standard offering on this short domestic hop. While the flight itself is fast, remember to factor in the time needed for security checks and the commute to the Kolkata airport, which is located on the outskirts of the city. This mode is particularly favored by business travelers and those connecting from international flights.
Kolkata to Bhubaneswar by Bus
Buses offer a reliable alternative, especially for late-night departures that allow you to save on a night's accommodation. The journey by road takes between 8 hours 30 minutes and 11 hours 30 minutes. Bus fares are quite flexible, starting as low as $6 for basic seating and going up to $44 for premium sleeper berths.
You can choose from several configurations. AC Sleeper buses are highly recommended for the long haul, as they feature individual bunks where you can sleep comfortably. AC Seater and Semi-Sleeper options provide reclining chairs. For the most budget-conscious, Non-AC Seater buses are available, though these can be quite warm during the summer months. Most buses depart in the evening, arriving in Bhubaneswar early the following morning.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | $6 - $33 | 5h 20m - 6h 30m | High |
| Flight | $42 - $105 | 1h 10m - 1h 35m | Very High |
| Bus | $6 - $44 | 8h 30m - 11h 30m | Moderate |
Tips for Traveling from Howrah to Bhubaneswar
- Book Trains Early: This route is part of the main trunk line connecting North and South India. Trains fill up weeks in advance, especially during festivals like Durga Puja or the Rath Yatra in nearby Puri.
- Station Logistics: Howrah Junction is massive. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to find your platform. If you are staying in central Kolkata, a ferry across the river can sometimes be faster than a taxi over the bridge.
- Luggage on Buses: If you choose the bus, confirm the luggage policy. Most sleeper buses have storage underneath, but it is always wise to keep valuables in a small carry-on bag with you.
- Bhubaneswar Arrival: The Bhubaneswar railway station is centrally located, making it easy to reach hotels. The airport is also quite close to the city center, usually a 15-20 minute drive.
- Food and Water: While premier trains like the Shatabdi include meals, for other trains and buses, it is best to carry your own snacks and bottled water. The station platforms offer plenty of local snacks like Jhalmuri and Chai.
Timetable
| Flight Kolkata - Bhubaneswar $ 59.03–99.17 1h 10m – 1h 35m | |
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| Bus Kolkata - Bhubaneswar $ 6.81–56.37 7h 55m – 11h 30m | |
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| Train Howrah - Bhubaneswar $ 5.45–32.35 5h 18m – 7h 10m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Howrah to Bhubaneswar directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by train or bus, with tickets starting at approximately $6. Second Sitting (2S) on the train and Non-AC Seater buses are the most budget-friendly options available.
The fastest way to reach Bhubaneswar is by flight, which takes between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 35 minutes. This is significantly quicker than the 5 to 6 hours required by train.
Travel time varies by mode: flights take about 1.5 hours, trains take between 5 and 6.5 hours, and buses take between 8.5 and 11.5 hours.
The train is generally preferred as it is faster and more comfortable than the bus. However, buses are a great alternative if train tickets are sold out, as they offer many overnight departures.
Most major trains to Bhubaneswar depart from Howrah Junction (HWH), though some services may also depart from Shalimar or Sealdah. Always check your ticket carefully for the specific departure station.
Yes, there are several overnight train and bus options. Many travelers prefer the overnight AC Sleeper buses or late-night trains to arrive in Bhubaneswar refreshed in the morning.