Keonjhar’s Transport and Travel Network
Keonjhar has good road connectivity with major cities in Odisha and neighboring states. Keonjhar (Kendujhar) district, located in the northern part of Odisha, enjoys fairly good travel and transport connectivity by road, rail, and air.
Keonjhar has good road connectivity with major cities in Odisha and neighboring states. Keonjhar (Kendujhar) district, located in the northern part of Odisha, enjoys fairly good travel and transport connectivity by road, rail, and air. The district lies approximately 220 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, the state capital, and National Highways 20 and 49 provide easy access to it from important cities such as Cuttack, Jajpur, Rourkela, and Jamshedpur. These well-maintained highways make road travel convenient and scenic as they pass through hilly terrains and forested landscapes.
Regular bus services, both government-operated by OSRTC (Odisha State Road Transport Corporation) and private operators, connect Keonjhar with major cities and towns like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Balasore, and Jajpur. Buses run frequently throughout the day, providing affordable and comfortable travel options for passengers. Besides buses, taxis, and shared vehicles also offer more direct or flexible travel options.
Railways also link the district well, with Keonjhar Railway Station (KDJR) serving as the main station. It offers direct train services to Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Tatanagar, facilitating easy travel for both commuters and tourists. For passengers coming from other regions, nearby major railway junctions such as Jajpur-Keonjhar Road, Rourkela, and Tatanagar provide additional connections to the national rail network.
Although Keonjhar does not have its own airport, travelers can reach it by road from nearby airports. The nearest one is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 6 to 7 hours away by road, which offers flights to most major Indian cities and some international destinations.
For local transport within the district, a variety of options serve travelers, including the Ama Bus service, which offers easy travel within different neighborhoods. Besides that, local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis connect Keonjhar town to nearby villages, markets, and tourist destinations. The district’s natural beauty and cultural heritage attract many visitors to places like Sanaghagara and Badaghagara Waterfalls, Gonasika, Bhimkund, and Sitabinji, all of which are well-maintained local roads and easily accessible.
Overall, Keonjhar’s travel and transport network provides reliable connectivity to major urban centers and supports easy movement within the district, making it an accessible and appealing destination for visitors and residents alike.