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Bhubaneswar is a straightforward city to navigate once you know the basics: Biju Patnaik International Airport sits only about 4 km from the centre, the railway station is a major East Coast Railway hub, and app-based cabs are cheap. Below are the practical answers travelers ask most, as part of our full Bhubaneswar guide.
Bhubaneswar Travel Tips: Getting from the Airport
Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) is about 4 to 6 km from the city centre and roughly 4 km from Bhubaneswar Railway Station. An Ola or Uber into town costs ₹250 to ₹450, a prepaid taxi ₹350 to ₹550, and a CRUT Mo Bus ₹20 to ₹50. There is no metro, so buses, cabs and auto-rickshaws (₹150 to ₹250 from the airport) are your only options. See our where to stay in Bhubaneswar guide for hotels near the airport.
Bhubaneswar Travel Tips: Getting Around the City
CRUT’s Mo Bus network connects the airport, railway station, Khandagiri and Patia, with fares of ₹20 to ₹50. Auto-rickshaws charge ₹30 to ₹100 for short hops depending on distance, and Ola or Uber cabs cost roughly ₹100 to ₹300 for cross-city trips. Trains from Bhubaneswar Railway Station (station code BBS) run to Puri in about 1.5 hours and to Cuttack in under an hour.
Bhubaneswar Travel Tips: Money, Visas and Tipping
Most foreign visitors need an India e-Visa, which you apply for online and can be issued for 30 days, one year or five years. The currency is the Indian rupee (₹), ATMs are common in malls and near hotels, and card acceptance is good in hotels and larger restaurants. Tip 5% to 10% at sit-down restaurants and ₹50 to ₹100 to hotel bell staff; small tips are appreciated but not required in taxis.
Bhubaneswar Travel Tips: Safety, Health and Water
Bhubaneswar is generally safe with low violent-crime rates, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded markets and around the railway station. Do not drink tap water, buy sealed bottled water, and avoid ice from street stalls. The main weather risk is monsoon flooding and cyclone-related downpours from June to October, so check the Bhubaneswar weather by month page before you pack.
Suggested Hotels in Bhubaneswar
Three reliable options across budgets, all bookable with free cancellation on Booking.com. For area-by-area picks, see the Bhubaneswar neighborhoods guide.
Trident Bhubaneswar
A five-star hotel with an outdoor pool, jogging track and garden-facing rooms, minutes from the airport. Best for couples and business travelers who want a calm, full-service stay. Check rates and availability
Lemon Tree Premier, Bhubaneswar
A four-star hotel in Chandrasekharpur with a pool, fitness centre and the Citrus Cafe restaurant. Best for families and business travelers who want mid-range comfort near the IT corridor. Check rates and availability
Ginger Bhubaneshwar
A modern budget hotel opposite Nalco headquarters in Nayapalli with compact rooms and a 24-hour front desk. Best for solo travelers and short budget stays. Check rates and availability
Bhubaneswar Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the temples if I am not Hindu? Yes for the exteriors and most smaller shrines, but the inner sanctum of Lingaraj Temple is for Hindus only. What is the best month for sightseeing? December, with 27°C highs and 5 mm of rain; the best time to visit Bhubaneswar guide has the full picture.
Where should I spend my days? Start with the things to do in Bhubaneswar list and add a festival from the events and festivals in Bhubaneswar page.
