Bhubaneswar Odisha, India Travel Guide
BBI is the single airport serving Bhubaneswar and Odisha, handling domestic and restricted international flights. It is modern and compact, located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of the city center.
BBI offers duty-free shops, food outlets, currency exchange, ATMs, lounges, and car rental counters.
Peak season (Oct-Feb) flights are higher due to demand. Off-season (Apr-Aug) has lower prices but potential monsoon delays. Book well in advance for better rates.
Download the Ola or Uber app before arrival. This allows quick booking, avoiding higher taxi fares. Designated pick-up points are outside the terminal.
Book flights at least 1-2 months in advance, notably for peak season, to get better prices. Consider flexible tickets if your plans might change.
International Driving Permit (IDP) with home country license, passport, visa. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
Driving in India is challenging due to aggressive practices, mixed traffic, pedestrians, animals, and lax lane discipline. Not for first-time visitors without similar experience.
Road conditions vary. National/state highways are generally good. City traffic can be chaotic. Avoid driving after dark outside major towns due to decreased visibility and hazards.
Bhubaneswar’s Mo Bus system, operated by CRUT, offers an economical way to explore. These are air-conditioned buses covering most of Bhubaneswar and connecting to Cuttack and Puri.
Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient door-to-door transportation. Pre-paid taxis are at the airport/railway station. Ola and Uber are widely used and reliable.
For independence, consider rentals, but traffic conditions are challenging. A car with a driver is the top recommendation for tourists.
Explore Bhubaneswar intimately walking or cycling. Certain areas are more pedestrian-friendly.
Departure taxes and fees for international flights are typically included in your airfare. No separate cash payment is usually needed at the airport.
BBI Airport offers food, shops, plus lounges. Bhubaneswar Railway Station and Baramunda Bus Stand have basic waiting areas, food stalls, and restrooms.
Online check-in expedites your process. Follow airline recommendations for baggage drop-off. Be ready for thorough security screening at Indian air terminals.
Keep your passport and boarding pass readily available for immigration officers. Confirm any specific country requirements before your trip.
Reconfirm your flight status AROUND the clock prior to departure. This helps with schedule changes or delays, allowing adjustment of travel to the airport or station.
For day trips involving multiple sites, think about reserving an organized tour bus. This removes the stress of coordinating transport and helps you see several attractions efficiently.
Opt for a car with a driver if you intend to do a lot of day trips or prefer hassle-free travel. This removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and traffic, letting you relax and savor the scenery.
BBI is the main airport. Domestic flights connect widely. Limited international routes. Use apps for airport transfers.
Major rail hub (BBS) for nationwide connections. Baramunda Bus Stop for travel within the region. Book in advance for best seats.
Mo Bus is economical. Ola/Uber for convenience. Walking tours in Old Town. Car with driver is highly recommended.
For an authentic experience, consider exploring Bhubaneswar's Old Town on foot, then using ride-sharing services or the Mo Bus for longer distances or to visit modern areas.
