Vande Bharat train to Puri: A game-changer for pilgrims and tourists!

The introduction and rapid expansion of Vande Bharat Express services linking Puri with major cities are redefining the travel experience for Odisha’s pilgrims and tourists.

With modern amenities, faster travel times, and increased capacity, these trains have emerged as indispensable links to one of India’s most iconic religious and cultural destinations.

New And Established Vande Bharat Services To Puri

Puri is currently served by two premium Vande Bharat Express trains: the Puri–Howrah Express and the Puri–Rourkela Express.

The Puri–Howrah service connects Odisha’s coastal temple town with Kolkata, a vital corridor for pilgrims and tourists alike, while the Puri–Rourkela service links Eastern and Western Odisha, creating a seamless network for devotees from across the state.

Why These Trains Have Become Essential

The Vande Bharat trains are more than just faster alternatives as they have become essential lifelines for pilgrimage and tourism.

With the Jagannath Temple drawing millions annually, the demand for reliable, comfortable, and timely transport has grown exponentially. The premium coaches, reduced travel hours, and air-conditioned comfort offer relief to pilgrims, many of whom travel with families and elderly members.

During peak festival seasons like Rath Yatra, these trains help manage surging footfall by providing faster turnaround times and additional capacity. Their presence ensures that devotees from West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Western Odisha can reach Puri without the delays and overcrowding often seen on older trains.

Capacity Upgrades In Response To Heavy Demand

Recognising the soaring popularity of these services, Indian Railways has steadily expanded its capacity.

The Puri–Howrah Vande Bharat was upgraded to a 20-coach rake in May 2025, including 16 AC Chair Cars and two Executive Class coaches. Similarly, the Rourkela–Howrah Vande Bharat, which indirectly benefits Puri-bound travellers, was doubled from 8 to 16 coaches in August 2025. These moves suggest the trains’ growing indispensability for both daily travellers and tourists.

Broader Impact On Odisha’s Pilgrimage And Tourism Economy

The expansion of Vande Bharat services has created a ripple effect on Odisha’s economy. Pilgrims and leisure visitors arriving comfortably and faster means longer stays, higher spending, and steady demand for hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

Further, Puri’s status as a spiritual and tourist hub is strengthened by the accessibility these trains provide.

ALSO READ: Vande Bharat express trains in Odisha: A one-stop details sheet to check

Beyond convenience, the trains have also become symbols of modernisation meeting tradition, blending India’s cutting-edge rail technology with centuries-old pilgrimage routes. This has boosted Odisha’s image as a state prepared to welcome both devout pilgrims and modern tourists with equal ease.

Despite these advances, challenges remain. High demand during festivals still strains services, and last-mile connectivity from Puri station to other destinations like Konark and Chilika continues to depend on road transport. Infrastructure upgrades around Puri station will be crucial to fully capitalise on the benefits of the Vande Bharat services.