Every 12 to 19 years, the city of Puri in Odisha transforms into a spiritual epicenter unlike anything else in India. Nabakalebara, a centuries-old ritual where the wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshan are ceremonially replaced, draws millions of pilgrims from across the globe. With roads packed, trains full, and local buses overwhelmed, navigating Odisha during this grand event can be both thrilling and daunting.
If you're planning to visit during Nabakalebara, having your own mode of transportation is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity. Here’s your comprehensive guide on why renting a vehicle makes sense and how to do it smartly. Whether you’re eyeing a 9 seater car for rent to accommodate family and friends, or a quick and nimble bike rental in BBSR (Bhubaneswar), we’ve got you covered.
What is Nabakalebara and Why It Matters for Travel
Before we dive into travel tips, it’s important to understand what makes Nabakalebara so special—and so crowded.
Nabakalebara (literally meaning "new body") is a sacred ritual in which the deities of the Jagannath Temple in Puri are recreated using neem wood (called Daru Brahma). The event is deeply spiritual, historic, and emotionally significant for millions of Hindus. Entire processions, secret rituals, and a series of important dates bring in unprecedented crowds to Odisha, especially between Bhubaneswar and Puri.
Why Renting a Vehicle is Crucial During Nabakalebara
1. Public Transport Gets Overwhelmed
Trains and buses operate at full capacity during the Nabakalebara season, and booking last-minute tickets can feel like winning a lottery. Delays are common, and services can be suspended without notice for crowd control.
2. Flexible Travel Plans
Religious events like Snana Yatra, Naba Joubana Darshan, and the Rath Yatra occur on different dates. Having your own car or bike allows you to move between Bhubaneswar, Puri, Konark, and surrounding areas without relying on rigid bus schedules.
3. Comfort in Groups
If you're traveling with family, especially elders or kids, squeezing into a packed public bus or standing in queues isn’t ideal. A 9 seater car for rent offers space, AC comfort, and the ability to stop at dhabas or temples on your own time.
Choosing the Right Vehicle: Car or Bike?
Option 1: 9 Seater Car for Rent
Perfect for:
Families or large groups of friends.
Travelers with luggage.
Devotees planning multiple temple visits.
Popular choices:
Tempo Travellers, Toyota Innova Crysta (extended version), Force Traveller mini vans.
Benefits:
Air-conditioned comfort in Odisha’s humidity.
Better safety and space for elders.
Option to hire with or without a driver.
Avoid constant booking and rebooking of cabs or autos.
Pro Tip: Book in advance. During Nabakalebara, large vehicles are in high demand, and prices can double if you wait too long.
Option 2: Bike Rental in BBSR
Perfect for:
Solo travelers or couples.
Youth groups wanting adventure and speed.
Budget-conscious pilgrims.
Popular bikes:
Activa, Pulsar, Royal Enfield, and Scooty Pep for inner-city rides.
Benefits:
Easy maneuvering through traffic and narrow temple roads.
Park easily in congested areas near temples and city centers.
Fuel-efficient and affordable.
Caution: Always wear helmets. Traffic police are strict during festivals and there are multiple checkpoints.
Top Travel Routes and Tips During Nabakalebara
1. Bhubaneswar to Puri
Distance: ~60 km
Time (during normal conditions): 1.5 hours
Time during Nabakalebara: 3–4 hours or more (due to checkposts and foot traffic)
Travel Tip: Start early. Leave Bhubaneswar before sunrise to avoid bottlenecks at Pipili and Sakhigopal.
2. Golden Triangle: Bhubaneswar – Puri – Konark
Perfect for visitors wanting a cultural mix.
Rent a vehicle for 2–3 days and cover Lingaraj Temple, Jagannath Temple, and Sun Temple.
Travel Tip: Carry your own water and light snacks. Temple towns can have sudden food shortages due to demand.
Local Rules to Remember for Car and Bike Rentals
Valid License: Indian or International.
ID Proof: Aadhar, Passport, or PAN card for documentation.
Deposit: Most rental agencies take a refundable security deposit.
Fuel: Most rentals are self-fuel. Keep an eye on fuel stations as some areas run out during peak travel dates.
GPS vs. Reality: Don’t always rely on Google Maps. Some roads are blocked for processions, so ask locals or traffic police for alternate routes.
Where to Rent: Reliable Options in BBSR
Car Rentals:
Local agencies around Railway Station and Bapuji Nagar.
Airport car rental counters (though expensive).
Online platforms like Zoomcar, Revv, and local aggregators.
9 Seater Car for Rent:
Many local tour operators offer package deals. You may get better rates for 2–3 day bookings rather than per-day rentals.
Bike Rentals in BBSR:
Easily available near Master Canteen, KIIT, Infocity, and Patia.
Scooters are great for short Puri runs, but prefer Enfields or Pulsars for long highway rides.
Safety and Crowd Tips During Nabakalebara
Follow Traffic Diversions
Authorities block several roads near the Jagannath temple for crowd control. Follow police signs and instructions.Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
Ambulance, local police, and your rental agency should be saved in your phone.Use Paid Parking Zones
Don’t park randomly. Vehicles get towed quickly near the Grand Road (Bada Danda).Keep Fuel Topped Up
Don’t wait till the last minute. Fuel stations near Puri often have queues or rationing during key days.Plan for Heat and Humidity
Odisha can be unforgiving in summer. Carry sunscreen, water bottles, and ORS.
Local Experiences Worth Driving To
While the spotlight is on the temple town, renting a car or bike opens the door to some lesser-known gems:
Raghurajpur Village (en route to Puri): Home of Pattachitra artists.
Chilika Lake at Satapada: Spot Irrawaddy dolphins.
Baliharachandi Beach: A quiet, clean beach near Puri.
Dhauli Hills: Buddhist peace pagoda just outside Bhubaneswar.
Pipili Market: Colorful appliqué work stalls—a must-stop if you’re driving by.
Booking Advice: When and How to Reserve Your Vehicle
Best Time to Book:
3–4 weeks in advance for Nabakalebara days.
Avoid walk-ins. Prices surge and inventory sells out quickly.
Documents to Carry:
Photocopies of ID and license.
Printout of rental confirmation and insurance policy.
Inspection Checklist:
Check brakes, headlights, horn, and indicators.
Ensure the fuel tank is full or as committed.
Click photos of existing scratches or dents.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Odisha during Nabakalebara is an unforgettable experience—both spiritually and culturally. While the divine presence of Lord Jagannath draws the faithful, the chaos of logistics can overwhelm the unprepared.
Renting a vehicle—be it a 9 seater car for rent for your family pilgrimage or a bike rental in BBSR for quick solo explorations—adds a layer of control, comfort, and peace of mind to your journey. You'll move at your pace, avoid unnecessary stress, and discover more than what’s written in guidebooks.
