By Imteshal Karim

Copyright odishatv

The introduction and rapid expansion of Vande Bharat Express services linking Puri with major cities are redefining the travel experience for Odisharsquos pilgrims and tourists.
With modern amenities faster travel times and increased capacity these trains have emerged as indispensable links to one of Indiarsquos 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 PurindashHowrah Express and the PurindashRourkela Express.
The PurindashHowrah service connects Odisharsquos coastal temple town with Kolkata a vital corridor for pilgrims and tourists alike while the PurindashRourkela 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 PurindashHowrah Vande Bharat was upgraded to a 20-coach rake in May 2025 including 16 AC Chair Cars and two Executive Class coaches. Similarly the RourkelandashHowrah Vande Bharat which indirectly benefits Puri-bound travellers was doubled from 8 to 16 coaches in August 2025. These moves suggest the trainsrsquo growing indispensability for both daily travellers and tourists.
Broader Impact On Odisharsquos Pilgrimage And Tourism Economy
The expansion of Vande Bharat services has created a ripple effect on Odisharsquos economy. Pilgrims and leisure visitors arriving comfortably and faster means longer stays higher spending and steady demand for hotels restaurants and local businesses.
Further Purirsquos status as a spiritual and tourist hub is strengthened by the accessibility these trains provide.
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Beyond convenience the trains have also become symbols of modernisation meeting tradition blending Indiarsquos cutting-edge rail technology with centuries-old pilgrimage routes. This has boosted Odisharsquos 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.