As preparations begin for the grand Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, thousands of devotees from across India are planning their pilgrimage to Odisha. To manage the expected surge in passenger traffic during the festival, Indian Railways has announced special train services connecting key destinations with Puri. These additional trains aim to provide convenient travel options for pilgrims travelling from regions like Jagdalpur and Rayagada, ensuring a smoother journey during one of India's biggest religious celebrations.
Jagdalpur Puri Special Train Schedule
The East Coast Railway has announced special services between Jagdalpur and Puri for devotees travelling to witness the grand chariot festival.
Train No. 08553 Jagdalpur-Puri Special will operate on July 15 and July 23, 2026.
The train will depart from Jagdalpur at 6:00 AM and reach Puri at 1:40 AM the next day.
The return service, Train No. 08554 Puri-Jagdalpur Special, will leave Puri at 7:15 PM on July 16 and July 24, 2026, and arrive at Jagdalpur at 1:15 PM the following day.
ALSO READ | Budget Traveller | IRCTC Tour Package 2026: Visit 3 Beautiful States In One Trip From Just Rs 18,040
Jagdalpur Puri Special Route And Stoppages
The special train will provide connectivity through several important stations, allowing devotees from southern Odisha and nearby areas to reach Puri easily.
The major stoppages on the route include:
Jagdalpur → Koraput → Jeypore → Kotpad → Rayagada → Gunupur → Paralakhemundi → Palasa → Khurda Road → Puri
Passengers travelling from these regions will get an additional option besides existing railway services.
Rayagada Puri Special Train Details
Along with the Jagdalpur service, Indian Railways will also operate a Rayagada-Puri Special Train during the Rath Yatra period. The train will run on dates notified by the Railways and will halt at important stations on the route. Devotees from Rayagada and nearby districts will benefit from this additional connectivity. Passengers are advised to check the latest timetable, platform details and operational updates before starting their journey.
ALSO READ | Budget Traveller | IRCTC Bharat Gaurav Train To Cover 5 Jyotirlingas In 11 Days; Fares Start At Rs 20,250
Train Fare Details For Devotees
The fare for these special trains will depend on the class chosen by passengers and the distance travelled. The expected fare structure for the Jagdalpur–Puri route is similar to regular railway services:
- General Second Class (Unreserved): Approximately Rs 250–Rs 350
- Sleeper Class (SL): Approximately Rs 400–Rs 500
- AC 3 Tier (3A): Approximately Rs 1,000–Rs 1,200
- AC 2 Tier (2A): Approximately Rs 1,400–Rs 1,700
The final fare may vary depending on railway revisions, reservation charges, superfast charges and other applicable fees. Passengers should verify the exact fare while booking tickets through official railway platforms.
Railway Preparations For Rath Yatra 2026
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of India's largest religious gatherings, attracting devotees from across the country. To handle the increased passenger volume, Railways has strengthened crowd management arrangements at Puri Railway Station and introduced additional passenger facilities. A temporary holding area has also been planned to manage large crowds during peak hours.
Railway officials have advised passengers to plan their journey in advance, avoid last-minute bookings and follow announcements regarding train timings. With additional special trains, improved connectivity and enhanced passenger arrangements, Indian Railways aims to make the spiritual journey to Puri safer and more comfortable for devotees attending Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026.