When you land at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar—Odisha’s bustling capital—you’re greeted by warm air, a hum of local voices, and a sudden sense of adventure. Whether you’re here to explore the city’s ancient temples, attend a business meet, or head towards the scenic coastline of Puri, there’s one decision that can shape your entire experience: how you get from the airport to your hotel.
For many, the traditional choice used to be a pre-paid taxi or hailing a cab outside the terminal. But over the last few years, an increasing number of travelers—both domestic and international—are choosing car rentals instead. And it’s not just about luxury. It's about freedom, flexibility, transparency, and—let's be honest—a lot less stress.
In this blog, we explore why more and more tourists prefer car rental in Bhubaneswar over taxis, and how you can
book a car in bhubaneswar airport seamlessly for a hassle-free transfer experience.
The First Few Hours Matter: Why Transfers Are Crucial
After a flight, you're tired. You just want to reach your accommodation quickly, safely, and without bargaining with taxi drivers or fiddling with unfamiliar apps. The last thing you need is:
Long queues outside the airport
Drivers refusing short-distance rides
Lack of clarity in pricing
Language barriers
A vehicle that doesn't fit your luggage or comfort needs
This is where car rentals at the Bhubaneswar airport have changed the game.
Why Tourists Are Ditching Taxis for Car Rentals
1. Transparent Pricing and No Hidden Charges
One of the biggest issues with local taxis is uncertain fare structures. While pre-paid counters exist, there have been complaints about overcharging during peak hours, surge pricing, or drivers demanding extra for luggage.
With car rental services, especially those that allow you to book a car in Bhubaneswar airport online, you get:
Pre-confirmed pricing
GST-included billing
No haggling
Transparent fuel and toll policies
What you see is what you pay.
2. Freedom to Move at Your Own Pace
A taxi will drop you at your hotel—and that’s that. If you suddenly feel like visiting Lingaraj Temple on the way, or grabbing a local meal at Esplanade, you'll have to book another cab (or beg the driver to take a detour).
A rental car gives you full control. Want to stop by Ekamra Van or take a sunset stroll at Dhauli Peace Pagoda before checking in? No problem. You’re in the driver’s seat—literally.
3. Higher Comfort and Cleanliness Standards
Most tourists are understandably picky about hygiene post-pandemic. With trusted car rental providers, especially self drive options, you get sanitized vehicles, well-maintained interiors, and a choice of car types (sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, or even luxury cars).
With taxis, it's often a gamble—you might get a clean cab, or a dusty one that smells like last night's fish curry.
4. 24/7 Availability with Online Booking
Many tourists now book a car in Bhubaneswar airport before they even land. Services like Revv, Zoomcar, Myles, and local rental platforms allow you to schedule your pickup, select the type of car, and upload ID proofs in advance.
No need to wait in queues or scramble for cabs at midnight. Your car is waiting for you when you walk out of arrivals.
5. Ideal for Groups and Families
If you’re travelling with family or friends, especially in a group of 4–6 people, getting multiple taxis is both inconvenient and expensive. But with rental options like 7-seater Ertigas or Innovas, you can ride together, chat, share snacks, and even plan your next stop along the way.
It’s not just transport—it becomes part of the experience.
6. Multi-Day Utility and Cost Efficiency
Why just use a car for the airport-hotel leg? Most visitors extend the rental and use it throughout their stay. Want to visit Khandagiri-Udayagiri caves one day and Konark the next? Your rental car is your constant companion.
In fact, for a 3-day itinerary in Bhubaneswar, renting a car is often cheaper than booking multiple taxis or rideshares.
Common Scenarios Where Car Rentals Beat Taxis
Situation Taxi Car Rental
Early morning arrival (before 6 AM) May not be available or charge extra Available 24/7 with advance booking
Hotel in outskirts (Patia, Chandaka) May refuse long distances No issues
Visiting multiple sites in one day Need to book repeatedly One car for the entire day
Carrying luggage, camera gear, or shopping Tight space Choose SUV or hatchback as needed
Weekend trip to Puri or Satapada Multiple bookings Just drive there and back at your pace
Real-Life Travel Story: Ankit from Delhi
Ankit, a marketing executive from Delhi, visited Bhubaneswar for a 4-day solo trip. He booked a Swift Dzire self drive car from a rental app that offered car rental in Bhubaneswar airport with doorstep delivery.
“I landed around 10 PM. Instead of waiting for a cab, I found my rental car parked in the airport lot. The keys were in a lockbox with a code I’d been emailed earlier. I drove straight to my hotel in Chandrasekharpur. The next morning, I hit Lingaraj Temple, Dhauli, and even drove to Chilika on Day 3. It was smooth, safe, and very convenient.”
How to Book a Car in Bhubaneswar Airport: Step-by-Step
Choose a Reliable Provider
Options include Zoomcar, Revv, Drivezy, and local aggregators like ODC Cabs or Bharat Car Rental.
Select Pickup Location
Choose "Bhubaneswar Airport" or enter your arrival terminal details.
Select Car Type & Duration
Choose based on your luggage and group size—hatchback for solo or duo, SUV for family, etc.
Upload Documents
You’ll need a valid driving license and an ID proof like Aadhaar or passport.
Make Payment
Pay online, usually with refundable deposit.
Receive Confirmation
You’ll get car details, pickup location, contact number, and key instructions.
Car Rental Options at Bhubaneswar Airport (2025 Updated)
Provider Type Price (Per Day) Features
Zoomcar Self drive ₹1800 – ₹3500 App-based, refundable deposit
Revv Self drive ₹1600 – ₹3000 Hourly/daily, sanitized cars
Bharat Car Rental Chauffeur + self ₹1000 – ₹4000 Local support, wide variety
ODC Cabs Chauffeur-driven ₹1200 – ₹2500 Trusted for hotel transfers
Tip: For short transfers, chauffeur-driven is easy. For 3+ days, self drive is more economical.
Things to Keep in Mind
Fuel Policy: Some rentals are full-to-full, others charge for fuel used.
Documentation: Always carry a hard/soft copy of your license.
Traffic Rules: Bhubaneswar has working traffic lights and strict police—follow speed limits.
Toll Charges: Most routes within the city don’t have tolls, but trips to Puri/Konark might.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Bhubaneswar or a frequent flyer, your arrival should feel smooth—not stressful. Choosing a
Car rental in Bhubaneswar instead of a traditional taxi gives you peace of mind, personal space, and the joy of exploring Odisha at your own pace.
From temple-hopping to beach runs, your journey begins the moment you land. So next time you plan your trip, don’t wait till arrival—book a car in Bhubaneswar airport ahead of time and enjoy the road less rushed.
