Introduction

Driving from Puri to Bhitarakanika National Park is a journey through some of Odisha’s most beautiful landscapes — from coastal roads, lush forests, rustic villages, and finally to the mangrove estuary of Bhitarakanika. With GarudaCabs, you can experience this trip in comfort, safety, and with local expertise. Here’s everything you need to know before you hit the road.

Distance & Travel Time

• The road distance between Puri and Bhitarakanika is approximately 220-230 km, depending on which route you take. 

• Estimated driving time is ~4 to 6 hours, again depending on traffic, road condition, and stops. 

• Note: Some sources give slightly different distances (202 km, ~225 km) depending on the starting point in Puri and exactly where in Bhitarakanika you are headed (e.g. Dangmal, Pattamundai Rd etc.). 

What to Expect En Route

• Scenery: Coastal plains, farmland, mangroves nearer to the estuary. The journey offers a mix of rural Odisha with its fields, rivers, small villages.

• Stops: You can plan breaks at Bhubaneswar or Cuttack (for food, rest), then around Kendrapada or Chandabali before reaching the final stretch to Bhitarakanika.

• Wildlife & Nature: The climax of the journey is entering the Bhitarakanika area — rich in mangrove forests, estuarine ecosystems, birdlife, and with chances of spotting saltwater crocodiles.

Fare & Cab Options (with GarudaCabs flavor)

While GarudaCabs’ specific fares might vary (season, vehicle type, demand), here’s what to consider:

• Vehicle types: Sedans, SUVs, tempo-travellers for groups. If you’re traveling with family or friends, larger cars give more comfort.

• One-way vs round-trip: Going one-way may cost less, but round-trip gives flexibility if you’re returning to Puri or another destination.

• Additional costs: Fuel, driver allowances, tolls, parking, especially if you stop often or overnight near Bhitarakanika.

• Booking tips: Reserve ahead, especially in peak tourist season; ensure your cab is well-maintained; confirm pick-up/drop off points.

Things to Keep in Mind / Travel Tips

• Best Time to Travel: Avoid monsoon heavy rains which may affect roads near mangrove areas. October to March is generally better.

• Early start: Leaving early from Puri helps avoid city traffic (especially from Bhubaneswar or Cuttack) and reach before dark.

• Check entry rules & timings: Bhitarakanika National Park has timings for visitors, boat rides etc. Plan accordingly.

• Pack essentials: Sun protection, light clothes, insect repellent, water, snacks.

• Safety: GarudaCabs ensures licensed drivers, well-serviced vehicles. Ensure you check safety credentials.

Sample Itinerary

Here’s how a typical day trip or a 2-day trip could look:

• Day 1: Depart Puri early morning → stop at Bhubaneswar for breakfast → Cuttack lunch → proceed via Kendrapada to Chandabali → reach Bhitarakanika by late afternoon → evening wildlife or mangrove boat ride.

• Day 2: Morning safari / birdwatching / relaxing; explore nearby villages; return to Puri or stay overnight in local lodging for a relaxed return.

Why Choose GarudaCabs

• Local knowledge: Drivers familiar with Odisha’s roads, the Bhitarakanika area.

• Reliability and comfort: Clean, well-maintained cars, good customer support.

• Flexible booking: Able to adjust based on your pace, stops, and preferred route.

• Safety standards: Proper licensing, adherence to safety practices.

Conclusion

The journey from Puri to Bhitarakanika is more than just a transfer—it’s an experience. With about 220-230 km to cover, taking roughly 4-6 hours, the trip gives you both the joy of the road and the wonder of nature at the destination. Book with GarudaCabs, plan wisely, and you’ll remember this road trip for years to come.