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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Shree Jagannath Temple

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Tourist Places Near Puri

Here are some of the best places to visit near puri: , quick navigation, raghurajpur (10.0 km from puri).

Known popularly as an artist village, Raghurajpur has achieved a lot of fame all over the world for its unique Pattachitra paintings. These types of paintings are done on palm leaves using natural colors and usually revolve around the Hindu mythological characters. Almost all the residents of this village are artists by occupation and passion and are said to have inherited the skills of Pattachitra painting from their ancestors. Raghurajpur is also known to be the only village where Patas, the traditional garment used for the decoration of the throne of Lord Jaganath, are made. Such notable works, make this quaint town one of the suggested places to visit near Puri for the art and craft enthusiasts. Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year Distance from Puri: Raghurajpur is located at an approximate distance of 10 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Pattachitra paintings, stone and wood carvings, Gotipua folk dance, palm leaf engravings

Konark (35.8 km from Puri)

Known widely for its ancient temples, pristine sandy beaches, and Annual Dance Festival, Konark is a quaint little town of Odisha. The beauty of this charming city lies in its iconic Sun Temple, which has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This age-old architectural marvel makes for one among the most spectacular monuments in the country and speaks of the glorious past of the state. Konark hosts a number of festivals and events at the Sun Temple, including the Sun Festival, Annual Dance Festival, and Handicrafts Mela. The historical city of Konark is one of the major places to visit near Puri to get an insight into the history and culture of Odisha. Best Time to Visit: September to March Distance from Puri: Konark is located at an approximate distance of 35.8 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Sun Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach, ASI Museum, Konark Dance Festival, Sun Festival

Top Experiences To Do in konark

Chilika Lake (37.0 km from Puri)

Known as Asia’s largest saltwater lake, Chilika Lake is a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers. This pear-shaped lake shelters a few tiny islands and features multiple fisheries on its shore. Chilika Lake is home to umpteen varieties of fauna and flora, which makes it one of the best ecosystems on the earth. The lake also houses a plethora of colorful native as well as migratory birds including Flamingos, Sandpipers, White-Bellied Sea Eagles, and Golden Plovers. This enchanting lake is even known to offer one of the most surreal sunset and sunrise views in the entire country. Making available for many fun and thrilling activities, Chilika Lake is one of the most exotic places to visit near Puri. Best Time to Visit: November to February Distance from Puri: Chilika Lake is located at an approximate distance of 37 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Bird Island, Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, Kalijai temple, Satapada, Rambha Bay, Nalabana, bird watching, boating, Irrawaddy Dolphins, rich flora

Best of Orissa

Pipili (37.2 km from Puri)

Famous for its spellbinding local handicrafts, the small town of Pipili represents the culture of the Indian state of Odisha. The whole economy of this town is dependent on its amazing creation of crafts that are put out on sale mainly for the tourists visiting Puri. The handicrafts offered by this place mainly have that traditional touch in them and manifest different hues of the state. Some of the important things that tourists love to purchase in Pipili include Figurines of Hindu gods and goddesses, sheets, pillow covers, purses, handbags, and home decor items. Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year. Distance from Puri: Pipili is located at an approximate distance of 36.6 kilometers from Puri. Highlights: Markandeswara temple, local handicrafts, shopping. Click Here to Book Now:  Dubai Frame Tickets

Astaranga Beach (60.8 km from Puri)

With its name inspired from its colorful sunset, the magnificent Astaranga Beach is popular for its stunning picturesque vistas. Featuring clear blue waters and soft sands, this place gives rise to a magical environment that has an ever-lasting effect on its visitors. Lying away from the hustle and bustle of the chaotic city, this beach is one of the most recommended places to visit near Puri for a peaceful time to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate. Famous for its fishing villages, this place buzzes with an amazing fish market every morning, which lets the visitors purchase fresh fish. There is also a sufi shrine lying on the beach that attracts many muslim visitors. Best Time to Visit: October to February Distance from Puri: Astaranga Beach is located at an approximate distance of 60.8 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Jahania Pir Shrine, picnicnicking, swimming, Olive Ridley Turtles, sunset watching

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Bhubaneswar (61.1 km form Puri)

Known as the ‘Temple City of India’, Bhubaneswar is home to a myriad of magnificent temples and architectural marvels. Manifesting a glorious history and a rich cultural heritage, this ancient city is also a thriving hub for business and commerce. Making rapid progress without losing its hold onto its impressive traditions, the bustling city of Bhubaneswar presents the perfect blend of modern developments and old world charm. Packed with ancient temples, huge shopping malls, elegant restaurants, lofty buildings, and lush parks, this spectacular city has something in store for every traveler and hence makes for one of the most versatile tourist places near Puri. Best Time to Visit: October to March Distance from Puri: Bhubaneswar is located at an approximate distance of 60 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Lingaraj Temple, ISKCON Bhubaneswar, Kalinga Stadium, Bindu Sagar, Rajarani Temple, Orissa State museum, Mukteswar Temple, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Nicco Park, Pathani Samanta Planetarium, Chausathi Yogini, Deras Dam, Ananta Vasudev Temple, Khandagiri Caves, Esplanade One mall

Top Experiences To Do in Bhubaneswar

• Bhubaneswar

Best of Bhubaneswar

Cuttack (81.9 km from Puri)

Known popularly as Odisha’s cultural capital, Cuttack happens to be a commercial and touristy city of the state. Making for the state’s  2nd largest city, this buzzing place is known for its local handicrafts, cultural activities, delicious delicacies, and fairs and festivals. Some of the important events that are observed here with great pomp and show include the Kite Festival and Durga Puja. Also denoted as ‘The Silver City’, Cuttack has even gained a lot of fame for its impressive silverwork. Best Time to Visit: July to March Distance from Puri: Cuttack is located an approximate distance of 81 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Barabati Stadium, Dhabaleshwar, Bali Yatra, Dahi Vada Alu Dum

Brahmapur (176.0 km from Puri)

Balasore (251.0 km from Puri)

Perched at an altitude of around 54 feet, Balasore is an amazing city surrounded by the Bay of Bengal on the West, Midnapore on the North, Kendujhar on the Southwest, and Bhadrak on the South. This city formed a segment of the renowned Kalinga Empire in bygone times, but was captured by the Mughals. In the later period, the region was developed into an important port by the Britishers during their rule. At present day, Balasore makes for a critical site for the Ballistic Missile testing by DRDO. Packed with a number of attractions including beaches, temples, and markets, this city also attracts a lot of tourists each day. Best Time to Visit: October to February Distance from Puri: Balasore is located at an approximate distance of 251 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Chandipur Beach, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Panchalingeswar, Chandbali, Talsari Also Checkout  Langkawi Cable Car Tickets

Best of Cuttack

Rourkela (394.2 km from puri).

Known popularly as ‘The Steel City of Odisha’, Rourkela is counted among the country’s first cities to have received commercialization for the production of steel. Surrounded by serene rivers and lofty hills, this place is also popular for its rich natural beauty. Brimming with natural minerals, this city makes for a huge part of the state’s natural resources. In addition to commercial advancements, the place is even famous for its religious significance because of its illustrations in the Hindu epics such as Mahabharata and Ramayana. All these important features make Rourkela, one of the best offbeat tourist places near Puri. Best Time to Visit: October to March Distance from Puri: Rourkela is located at an approximate distance of 394.2 kilometers from Puri Highlights: Khandadhar Waterfall, Ghogar, Vedvyas, Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium, Hanuman Vatika, Shopping

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The best beach with numerous food stalls that offer the best seafood in Puri.  Puri beach is known for its roaring waves and fine golden sands. It offers opportunities to the daring souls to challenge the sea waves. It is one of the places to see in Puri since you can't miss the views of the sunrise and sunset.It is on the shore of the Bay of Bengal. To reach Puri beach, one can take the train, which is 2kms from the beach or travel by air from the nearby airport, which is 60kms away. It is the largest in the country and stretches up to seven kilometers. The beach hosts sand art displays by international award-winning local sand artists and camel and horse riders. There are no restrictions on visiting the beach except it's not visited at night.Location: Puri, Odisha 752001, India.Timing: 24-hrs.

The best time to visit the beach is from October to march. The beach boasts serenity and good experience in the city. Swargadwar means Door to Heaven and thus holds religious significance. It is believed in Hinduism that those who take a dip gain salvation to reach heaven after death.Hence, devotees visit the nearby Mahanadi bathing spot to take a dip in the holy waters. The beach is near the Swargadwar market and Jagannath Temple. Nearby is Swargadwar cremation ground, for it is believed to be holy. One of the places to visit in Puri in two days for a picnic and learn its religious significance and enjoy the beach’s breeze.Location: Puri, Odisha 752001.Timings: 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

It was built by the Hoysala Empire king and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in dedication to Laxmi Narayana. The temple was built inside a seven-foot-tall stone wall enclosure with an entrance through a porch with a roof supported by circular lathe-turned pillars.Lakshmi means the goddess of wealth, love, prosperity, and fortune. It is one of the earliest temples built in the Hoysala style, and it was made with soapstone material.  Lakshmi temple is one of the places to visit in Puri in two days and explore all the architectural styles used in designing it. The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning when there is a minimal rush.Location: Near Jagannath Temple Behind Sri Jagannath Temple,on the left hand side, Puri 752001 India.

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15 Best Tourist Places To Visit Near Jagannath Puri

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Jagannath Puri, nestled on the eastern coast of India in the state of Odisha , is a place steeped in history and spirituality. 15 Best Tourist Places To Visit Near Jagannath Puri It is renowned worldwide for its ancient and revered Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. This iconic temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra, stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of India.

Historical sites around Jagannath Puri are a treasure trove of cultural significance. The temple itself, with its towering spires and intricate carvings, dates back over a millennium and has witnessed centuries of devotion and tradition. It is a centre of spirituality, drawing millions of pilgrims and tourists alike.

Beyond the temple, the coastal town of Puri offers a plethora of experiences, from its pristine beaches and vibrant markets to its exquisite handicrafts and delicious cuisine. 15 Best Tourist Places To Visit Near Jagannath Puri Visitors can explore nearby historical sites such as the Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate stone carvings, and the picturesque Chandrabhaga Beach, steeped in mythology.

In essence, Jagannath Puri is not merely a destination but a sacred journey through time, where history, spirituality, and culture converge to create an enriching and unforgettable experience for all who venture here.

Read More:  Jagannath Rath Yatra

List Of Top 15 Places To Visit Near Jagannath Puri | Scenic Beach Escape

• Jagannath Temple, Puri |Spiritual Serenity and Artistic Grandeur
• Konark Sun Temple |A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Chilika Lake |Birdwatching and Scenic Boat Rides
• Puri Beach |Sun, Sand, and Seafood
• Raghurajpur Art Village | Home to Pattachitra Artisans
• Gundicha Temple | Rath Yatra Destination
• Chandrabhaga Beach | Picturesque Coastal Beauty
• Sakshi Gopal Temple | Historic Temple with Mythological Significance
• Narendra Tank | Sacred Bathing and Serene Surroundings
• Ramachandi Temple | Seaside Shrine with a Picturesque Setting
• Balighai Beach | Scenic Beach Escape
• Alarnatha Temple | A Temple with Unique Rituals
• Sri Lokanath Temple | Mystical and Serene
• Ghanteswari Temple | Temple with a Bells Symphony
• Puri Maritime Museum | Maritime History and Culture

1. Jagannath Temple, Puri |Spiritual Serenity and Artistic Grandeur

• Best Thing to Do: Seek blessings, witness the evening aarti, and admire the temple's architectural marvel.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for a peaceful atmosphere.

2. Konark Sun Temple |A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a magnificent testament to India's architectural and artistic grandeur. Nestled on the eastern coast of India in the state of Odisha, this temple is an architectural marvel that exemplifies the fusion of spirituality, culture, and creativity.

• Best Thing to Do: Explore the intricate stone carvings, capture the sunrise, and attend the Konark Dance Festival in December.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching sun.

3. Chilika Lake |Birdwatching and Scenic Boat Rides

Chilika Lake, situated near Jagannath Puri on the eastern coast of India in Odisha, is a natural wonder of immense ecological and cultural significance. Spanning over 1,100 square kilometres, it stands as the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. This brackish water lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique blend of biodiversity and c ultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.

• Best Thing to Do: Take a boat ride to spot dolphins, birdwatch at Nalabana Island, and enjoy fresh seafood at Rambha.
• Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather and migratory birds.

Read More:  Top 10 Mysterious Facts About Puri’s Jagannath

4. Puri Beach |Sun, Sand, and Seafood

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• 15 Spellbinding Places Near Puri To Visit On Your Next Break From A Routine Life In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Puri Jagannath Ratha Yatra is such an extravaganza. The chariot festival of Puri Jagannath is one of the times when everyone around the world would want to visit Puri. The famous Jagannath temple, the Prasad, and the tradition that the temple follows is a fantastic thing. Popularly called Char Dham Yatra, Puri is one of the most popular Hindu Pilgrim centers. Lakhs of people gather here from July to March as the weather would be pleasant.

Traveling during these months is better as Puri also experiences harsh summers. Puri, as a city, is a deadly combination of both divine and serene environments. It has some of the splendid temples that cater to the needs of pilgrims. On the other hand, Puri is filled with pristine beaches that make this place an idyllic one for everyone else to visit. There are also several places near Puri that are worth visiting.

Top 15 Places Near Puri

Puri, located in Orissa, has a lot of other places surrounded by, and when you are here, you can always take a tour around these top 15 places near Puri mentioned below. By visiting these places, a circuit in and Orissa would be complete.

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Known for its history and culture, Cuttack is one of the places that one has to visit when they are in Puri. It is at a pretty close distance to Puri, and a day trip would take you around one of the serene places. Cuttack is fondly known as the “Cultural Capital of Odisha.” When you are here, taking part in some of the cultural activities is a must.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik Airport Nearest railway station: Cuttack Junction railway station Distance from Puri: 82 km Ideal for: Children, Family, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts Places to visit:

• Cuttack Chandi temple
• Netaji Birth Place Museum
• Mahanadi Barrage
• Barabati Stadium

Must Read: 10 Holiday Homes In Puri That Ensure A Comfortable & Relaxing Stay!

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2. Bhubaneshwar

The capital city of Orissa is a land of temples. Hence, it is popularly known as the “temple town of India.” The grand architecture of the temple attracts a lot of art enthusiasts across the world. Bhubaneswar gives you a feel of an ancient world and can allure you with its grandeur at once.

Best time to travel: October to February Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik Airport Nearest railway station: Bhubaneswar New Junction Distance from Puri: 62 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, Photography enthusiasts Places to visit:

• Lingaraj temple
• Hirakud Dam
• Parasurameswara Temple
• Raja Rani Temple
• Bindu Sarovara

Suggested Read: Puri Jagannath Yatra: A Confluence Of Faith And Culture

3. Sambalpur

The lush green forests, the sparkling rivers, the abundant wildlife, and a wide range of flora and fauna surrounding the green hills make Sambhalpur one of the best destinations to visit from Puri. This place would also give a glimpse of the development of Orissa in the areas of handloom during their visit. Experiencing tribal life in Sambalpur is mandatory, and that should be part of your agenda. Also, when you are here, go shopping for the Sambalpuri sarees.

Best time to travel: September to March Nearest airport: Veer Surendra Sai Airport Nearest railway station: Sambalpur Junction Distance from Puri: 343 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, Children Family outings, shopaholics, history and culture lovers Places to visit:

• Ghanteswari Temple
• Gudguda WaterFall
• Budharaja Temple
• Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary
• Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary

Suggested Read: Top 10 Haunted Places In Odisha And Their Paranormal Activities

Khordha is one of the destinations that are pretty close to Puri. You must visit Khurda because of its association with the Odisha heritage and culture. Also, this place houses some of the most beautiful and massive temples in Orissa. When you are here, you must not miss going to Atri, one of the hot water springs in India. The water from this hot water spring is known to cure a lot of diseases because of the medicinal properties it has.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar Airport Nearest railway station: Khurda Railway Junction Distance from Puri: 61 km Ideal for: Photographers, Wildlife enthusiasts, and pilgrims Places to visit:

• Mangalajodi ecotourism
• Kunj Bihari Temple
• Chingudi Lake
• Atri Hot water spring

Suggested Read: 10 Beaches In Odisha That Are So Lit That You Must-Visit Them!

5. Chatrapur

Does the beauty of lakes fascinate you? Are you also interested in getting a panoramic shot of the city from a bridge? Then, you must head towards the quaint town of Chatrapur. Chatrapur is one of the places which would give you an escapade from the chaotic city life with a beautiful environment. Spend time looking at the view of the surroundings standing on the lovely dams that are in this place.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Brahmapur Airport Nearest railway station: Chatrapur Railways Station Distance from Puri: 154 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, Nature lovers, Photographers Places to visit:

• Tampara Lake
• Durga Narayani Temple
• Ghodahada Dam
• Biju Patnaik Setu
• Biranchi Narayan Temple

Suggested Read: 30 Tourist Places In Odisha To Visit For A Fun Vacation

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6. Keonjhar

Home to some of the fantastic waterfalls, Keonjhar in Orissa is full of abundant greenery. It offers stunning scenic views to tourists. For all the water lovers, Keonjhar is one of the must-visit places. Watching the water gushing from great heights in between the lush green forests and hills can be a feast to the pair of eyes.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar Airport Nearest railway station: Kendujhargarh railway station Distance from Puri: 257 km Ideal for: Nature lovers, park lovers, and water lovers Places to visit:

• Pundul Falls
• Hadagarh Dam
• Bhimkund Waterfall
• Khandadhar Falls

Suggested Read: Shopping In Orissa: Head To These 7 Places For An Ultimate Shopping Experience

Known for its brilliant dance forms, Boudh has a history of centuries. This is one of the cities close to Puri that has to be visited if you are interested in Buddhist culture and tradition. The place is also a center for recreation and cultural shows. One can go exploring the caves and take a dip in some of the best waterfalls of Orissa when in Boudh.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar Airport Nearest railway station: Rairakhol railway station Distance from Puri: 247 km Ideal for: Cave explorers, Pilgrims, Photographers Places to visit:

• Padmatola and Satkosia Sanctuary
• Marjakuda Island
• Bhairav Mandir Purunakatak
• Rameswara Temple
• Naikpada Cave

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8. Nayagarh

Most of the travelers fail to explore this beautiful city of Nayagarh when they are taking a tour of Puri. Located right in the middle of the two massive and gorgeous peaks of Rukhi and Balaram, Nayagarh is a ravishing beauty. Home to a lot of famous temples, Nayagarh is best to visit during the Maha Shivratri festival.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport Nearest railway station: Nayagarh Town Railway Station Distance from Puri: 106 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, Nature Lovers, History lovers Places to visit:

• Panchapalli Pragana

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9. Rourkela

Have you always dreamt of knowing the steel city of Orissa? Here you are; Rourkela is the place that is a pure blend of nature and steel. Both go hand in hand to make this place one of the most sought after destinations amongst travellers. The hills, the sweeping views, the cool breeze from the land couples with some of the lovely parks and other natural attractions Rourkela has to be on your list to explore.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Ranchi Airport Nearest railway station: Rourkela Junction Railway Station Distance from Puri: 396 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, Nature lovers, adventure lovers Places to visit:

• Mandira Dam
• Indira Gandhi Park
• Pitamahal Dam
• Darjeeng Park
• Harishankar Falls

Suggested Read: Go Karting In India: A Thrill Ride Awaits At These Exciting Venues Across The Country

It would not be an exaggeration to call Jaipur as a paradise of waterfalls. One can go tripping on the waterfalls every second hour when they are in Jajpur. These waterfalls make this place one of the must-visit destinations from Puri. Spending time in between the serene waterfalls can be one of the best things to do to unwind completely.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar Airport Nearest railway station: Kendujhargarh railway station Distance from Puri: 256 km Ideal for: Nature lovers, trekkers, motorcycle enthusiasts Places to visit:

• Sanaghagara Waterfall
• Handibhanga Waterfall
• Badaghagara Waterfall

Suggested Read: 28 Best Places To Visit In Puri For A Wholesome Vacation In Orissa

11. Kandhamal

Known for some of the exquisite temples, Kandhamal is also one of the places that usually get unnoticed in Orissa. After visiting the Puri Jagannath temple, one can also take a tour of this lovely place to seek blessings from the Lord Jagannath temple located here. Also, visit the silent valley of Kalinga Ghats and enjoy the beautiful environment around you.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport Nearest railway station: Berhampur railway station Distance from Puri: 273 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, nature lovers Places to visit:

• Belghar Nature Camp
• Lord Jagannath Temple
• Barala Devi Temple
• Putudi Waterfall

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Puri For A Comfortable Stay In This Beautiful Place

Is there anyone who does not Konark and the famous Sun Temple that it houses? Well, Konark is one of the most frequented places by almost everyone because of its incredible architecture and historical significance. Konark is one of the famous landmarks of Orissa, and it would not be an exaggeration if we called it the “The jewel in the crown” of Orissa. The ravishing beauty of the Sun temple in Konark is to be experienced by everyone.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar airport Nearest railway station: Puri Railway Station Distance from Puri: 35.8 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, history lovers, Architecture lovers, Photographers Places to visit:

• Konark Sun Temple
• Konark Beach
• Chandrabhaga Beach
• Ramchandi Beach
• Sun Temple Museum

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Puri: Best Ways To Explore A Historically Rich Destination

13. Berhampur

Are you looking for some relaxation after temple-hopping and understanding history and culture? Are your feet aching and is asking you to soak them in the best beaches of Orissa? Sit and enjoy some of the best scenic views at the shores of Berhampur. Berhampur is one of the most popular places after Konark, as it has a lot of historical significance. The presence of the buried fort, Pitogarh, makes it even more exciting to visit Berhampur.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Brahmapur Airport Nearest railway station: Brahmapur railway station Distance from Puri: 177 km Ideal for: Pilgrims, History and Culture lovers, nature lovers, and photographers Places to visit:

• Taratarini Temple
• Jiranga Monastery
• Khasada Fall
• Pati Sonepur Beach
• Dhabaleswar Beach

Suggested Read: 6 Pleasant Places To Visit Near Museum Puri Lukisan Bali In October

14. Balasore

Image Source Beaches, temples, and some lovely snaps; don’t you think this is one of the perfect ways to spend your vacation time? Well, if you are looking forward to some peaceful venture away from the city and the noise, then go to Balasore. For all Lord Shiva lovers, Balasore boasts of having the largest Shiva lingams in the world at the Baba Bhusandeswar Temple. It is said that only half of the actual Lingam is visible while the other half has been buried deep inside the grounds.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport Nearest railway station: Balasore railway station Distance from Puri: 252 km Ideal for: Couples, Pilgrims, Beach lovers and photographers Places to visit:

• Panchalingeswar Temple
• Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bichitrapur Mangrove Reserve
• Nilagiri Jagannath Temple
• Dagara Beach

Suggested Read: 4 Incredibly Fun Places To Visit Near Museum Puri Lukisan Bali In November

15. Jagatsinghpur

Jagatsinghpur houses one of the famous ports in India, Paradeep. The view of the endless sea with its marine activities can soothe your eyes and calm your soul when you are here. Also, Jagatsinghpur is one of the places that have gone through the test of times during the Freedom struggle. Hence, this place is a must-visit when you are in Puri.

Best time to travel: October to March Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport Nearest railway station: Paradeep railway station Distance from Puri: 76 km Ideal for: Couples, Beach lovers, pilgrims, and fort lovers Places to visit:

• Paradeep Port
• Mahanadi River estuary
• Marine Aquarium Paradeep
• Gobardhana Pitha Garoi Ashram
• Paradeep Sea Beach

Further Read: Sea Ports In India: Know About The Important Ports Which Stands As A Glory Of The Country!

So, when you are in Puri, you still have a chance to go around the entire Orissa if you just go through the list of these places, isn’t it? Every site has its significance and cultural values. Going around and knowing about all those things would only make your trip a fantastic one. So, pick your favorite places from the list and plan a trip to any of the Indian destinations .

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places near Puri

What are the top attractions to explore in Puri?

Some of the best attractions to explore in Puri include Jagannath Temple, Raghurajpur Artist Village, Puri Beach, Konark Beach, Chilika Lake, Swargadwar Beach, Daring Badi, Wonder World Water Park, and Puri Lighthouse.

What is there to do outdoors in Puri?

The best things that you could do outdoors in Puri include exploring some of the pristine beaches, visiting various historical temples, exploring the popular nature reserves, and experiencing the popular dishes of Orissa.

Is it safe to visit Puri during covid times?

As the tourism industry is slowly reopening, you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more if traveling in a small group while following all the guidelines released. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment or has few reported cases.

What is Puri known for?

Puri is a coastal city in Orissa and comprises some of the pristine beaches in Orissa. It is also known for its popular biosphere reserve and historical architecture such as the ancient temples and museums.

What are the best months to visit Puri?

Puri in Orissa can be visited any time of the year except for the months in which it experiences heavy rainfall and the weather becomes unpleasant to explore various attractions of Puri. Therefore, it is advisable to travel in the months where there is less rainfall.

What is there to do in Puri for 2 days?

The best attractions that you could explore in a 2 days tour to Puri include Raghurajpur Artist Village, Konark Beach, Chilika Lake, Swargadwar Beach. If you have got enough time then you can also visit Wonder World Water Park.

How many days are required to explore Puri?

For a brief visit to Puri, a 1-2 days tour is recommended in order to explore the major attractions in the city but if you want to go for a thorough vacation, then 3-4 days are sufficient to explore the hidden gems of the city.

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Jagannath Temple in Puri: Essential Visitor Guide

What to Know When Visiting Odisha's Jagannath Temple

Sharell Cook.

The Jagannath temple in Puri, Odisha , is one of the holy char dham abodes of God that are considered to be extremely auspicious for Hindus to visit (the others are Badrinath , Dwarka, and Rameshwaram). If you don't let money-hungry Hindu priests (locally known as pandas ) mar your experience, you'll find that this massive temple complex is a remarkable place. However, only Hindus are allowed inside.

Puri is just under two hours south of Bhubaneshwar , Odisha's capital city. The nearest airport is situated in Bhubaneshwar. There are frequent buses and trains from Bhubaneshwar to Puri. Puri's railway station also receives long distance trains from all over India.

Temple History and Deities

Construction of the Jagannath temple dates back to the 12th century. It was initiated by Kalinga ruler Anantavarman Chodaganga Dev and later completed, in its current form, by King Ananga Bhima Deva.

The temple is home to three deities -- Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra -- whose substantially sized wooden idols sit on a throne. Balabhadra is six feet tall, Jagannatha is five feet, and Subhadra is four feet tall.

Puri is regarded by Hindus as one of the four holy Char Dham — sacred abodes associated with Lord Vishnu (the Hindu god of preservation) in India. Lord Jagannath is considered to be a form of Lord Vishnu, who has descended to earth to provide protection during the current Kali Yuga (dark age). He's the presiding deity of Odisha and is integrally worshiped by most households in the state. The culture of Jagannath worship is a unifying one that promotes tolerance, communal harmony, and peace.

Based on the C har Dham , Lord Vishnu dines at Puri (he bathes at Rameswaram, gets dressed and anointed at Dwarka, and meditates at Badrinath). Hence, a great deal of significance is given to food at the temple. Referred to as mahaprasad , Lord Jagannath permits his devotees to partake in eating the 56 items that are offered to him, as a means of redemption and spiritual advancement.

Important Features of the Temple

The Jagannath temple has four entry gates, each facing a different direction. The main gate on the eastern side of the temple, known as Lion Gate, is guarded by two stone lions. An unmissable towering pillar known as Aruna Stambha stands about 11 meters high outside it. The pillar represents the charioteer of the Sun God and used to be part of the Sun Temple in Konark . However, it was relocated in the 18th century after the temple was abandoned, in order to save it from invaders.

The temple's inner courtyard is reached by climbing 22 steps (called Baisi Pahacha) from the main gate. There are approximately 30 smaller temples surrounding the main temple, and ideally, they should all be visited before seeing the deities in the main temple. However, devotees who are short on time can make do with just visiting the three most important smaller temples beforehand. These are the Ganesh temple, Vimala temple, and Laxmi temple.

Other notable features inside the 10-acre Jagannath temple complex include:

• an ancient Kalpavata banyan tree, which is said to fulfill devotees' wishes.
• the world's largest kitchen where the mahaprasad is cooked in clay pots. Apparently, the kitchen produces enough food to feed 100,000 people each day!
• Anand Bazaar where the mahaprasad is sold to devotees in various sized pots. It's available throughout the day but fresh dishes are provided after 2-3 p.m. Anand Bazaar can be directly accessed by taking the north gate exit.
• a small museum called Niladri Vihar near the western gate, dedicated to Lord Jagannath and the 12 incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
• Koili Baikuntha, where Lord Krishna was believed to have been cremated after being accidentally killed by hunter Jara Savara. It's in the northwest corner of the temple, between the inner and outer compound wall. During the Nabakalebar ritual, new idols of Lord Jagannath are carved out of wood and the old ones are buried there.

More than 20 different rituals are performed at the temple daily. The rituals reflect those carried out in everyday life, such as bathing, brushing teeth, getting dressed, and eating.

In addition, the flags tied to the temple's Neela Chakra are changed every day at sunset in a ritual that's been going on for 800 years. Two members of the Chola family, which was given exclusive rights to hoist the flag by the king who built the temple, perform the fearless feat of climbing 165 feet without any support to affix new flags. The old flags are sold to a few lucky devotees.

How to Visit the Temple

The Jagannath temple is open from 5 a.m. to midnight. To avoid the crowds, the best time to go is early in the morning around 7 a.m. after the first aarti ritual, or after 9 p.m. The ambiance is evocative at night, when lamps are lit and the temple is illuminated.

Vehicles, with the exception of cycle rickshaws, are not permitted near the temple complex. You'll need to take one or walk from the car park. The temple's main Lion Gate is located on Grand Road. Entry to the temple compound is free. You'll find guides at the entrance, who will take you around the temple complex for a negotiable fee (about 200 rupees). It's not compulsory to hire one though.

Due to government restrictions, it's no longer possible to go inside the inner sanctum of the temple where the deities are kept. Instead, the deities can be viewed from a distance, depending on how crowded it is. A new ticketed darshan (viewing) system is proposed but yet to be fully implemented.

There is also a ticket system in place for viewing the temple's famous kitchen. Tickets cost 5 rupees each. Don't miss it! The food is prepared in the same manner as it was centuries ago, with traditional methods and implements. About 15,000 new clay pots are transported to the temple every day for cooking in, as the pots are never reused.

Allow a couple of hours to completely explore the temple complex.

What to Keep in Mind

There are unfortunately many reports of greedy pandas forcefully demanding excessive amounts of money from devotees. Recent intervention and monitoring by the police has greatly curbed this problem. The pandas are known to be experts at extracting money from people though, particularly at the smaller temples within the complex.

If you are approached by any pandas , it's strongly recommended that you ignore them. If you do wish to avail of any of their services, make sure you negotiate the price beforehand and do not give any more than agreed. Most hotels have in-house pandas and you may be pushed to use their services. Be aware that you will pay a premium if you choose to.

If you wish to donate money to the temple, do so only at the official donation counter and obtain a receipt. Don't hand over money to the pandas or anyone else.

Barricades have been placed inside the temple to ensure the orderly flow of devotees and reduce harassment by pandas. There's a rush towards the inner sanctum though.

Note that you're not permitted to carry any belongings inside the temple, including cell phones, shoes, socks, cameras, and umbrellas. All leather items are banned as well. There is a facility near the main entrance where you can deposit your items for safekeeping.

Why Can't Everyone Go Inside the Temple?

The rules of entry into the Jagannath temple have caused considerable controversy. Only those who are born Hindu are allowed inside the temple. However, there have been instances of famous Hindus being denied entry. These include Indira Gandhi (the third Prime Minister of India) because she had married a non-Hindu, Saint Kabir because he had dressed like a Muslim, Rabindrinath Tagore since he followed Brahmo Samaj (a reform movement within Hinduism), and Mahatma Gandhi because he came with dalits (untouchables, people without a caste).

There are no restrictions as to who can enter other Jagannath temples, so what's the issue at Puri?

Numerous explanations are given, with one of the most popular ones being that people who do not follow the traditional Hindu way of life are unclean. Since the temple is considered to be the holy seat of Lord Jagannath, it has special importance. The temple caretakers also feel that the temple is not a sightseeing attraction. It's a place of worship for devotees to come and spend time with the god that they believe in. Past attacks on the temple by Muslims are sometimes mentioned as reasons too.

In 2018, the Supreme Court asked the temple to consider allowing all visitors inside, irrespective of their religion. This is yet to be decided though.

If you're not a Hindu, you'll have to be content with viewing the temple from the street or paying some money to view it from the roof of one of the nearby buildings (the old library opposite the main gate is a popular spot).

Ratha Yatra Festival

Once a year, in June or July, the idols are taken out of the temple in what is Odisha's biggest and most iconic festival. The Ratha Yatra festival sees the gods being transported around on towering chariots, which have been made to resemble temples. The construction of the chariots commences earlier in the year and is an intensive, detailed process.

What Else to Do Nearby

Local responsible tourism company Grass Routes Journeys offers an interesting and insightful three-hour guided tour of the Old City surrounding the Jagannath Temple (including the pottery area). This tour is highly recommended for foreigners who aren't permitted to go inside the temple but want to learn about it.

Raghurajpur handicraft village is about 15 minutes by car from Puri. There, artisans carry out their crafts while sitting in front of their prettily painted houses. Pattachitra paintings are a specialty.

Puri's carnival-like main beach is a huge attraction for Indian tourists. They flock there in droves to frolic in the water, and go for joy rides on horses and camels along the sand.

The magnificent 13th century Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is commonly visited as a side trip from Puri.

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Shree Jagannath Temple To Konark Sun Temple: 5 Best Places To Visit In Puri

Puri's pristine paradise: spiritual sojourns and sandy serenades known around the world as host to the grandest rath yatra celebrations centred around the iconic abode of lord jagannath, puri lies al.

Published: February 28, 2024 2:47 PM IST

By Web Desk | Edited by Web Desk

Puri’s Pristine Paradise: Spiritual Sojourns and Sandy Serenades

Known around the world as host to the grandest Rath Yatra celebrations centred around the iconic abode of Lord Jagannath, Puri lies along Odisha’s golden coastline, framing the azure Bay of Bengal waters blessed with both spiritual and natural charm. From the revered Shri Jagannath Temple to pristine beaches, architectural gems, and scrumptious bhog,

1.Shree Jagannath Temple: Discovering the Spiritual Heartbeat of Puri

Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri

Non-Hindus can admire the temple intricately carved from light brown sandstone in Kalinga architectural patterns from vantage points around this historic shrine, which is always bustling with activity from dawn until floral offerings start.

2.Golden Beach: Where Golden Sands Meet Azure Waters

An ideal way to enjoy Puri’s laidback vibes is through long leisurely strolls down the coast, delighting in the sight of golden sands stretched along the Bay of Bengal shore, kissed by gentle sea waves.

Golden Beach Puri

Watch local fishermen return in boats displaying their fresh catch, snack on bhelpuri, or simply enjoy camel rides on golden dunes lined with European-style resort villas towards Konark while the sea breeze whispers softly around.

3.Raghurajpur Arts & Craft: Unveiling the Vibrant Canvas of Odisha’s Artistry

Just 10 odd kilometres outside Puri lies the vibrant heritage artisan village of Raghurajpur, revived specially to promote the indigenous art of Pattachitra along with other handicrafts.

Raghurajpur Puri

Observe the fascinating process behind making palm leaf etchings or colourful masks as you browse through intricately detailed Mithuna paintings depicting Radha-Krishna legends by renowned artists whose work adorns global exhibits and museums.

4.Chilika Lake: Exploring the Serene Abode of Migratory Birds and Dolphins

Home to colourful migratory birds and exotic marine creatures is Asia’s largest brackish water, Chilika Lake, famed for Irrawaddy dolphins easily spotted through boating tours arranged by local guides.

Chilika Lake, Puri

The Nalabana Bird Sanctuary Island particularly draws birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts seeking to capture native winged creatures in flight while discovering biodiversity surprises like red crabs or starfish amid wetland ecologies.

Don’t miss the delicious fresh crab curry served by shacks!

5.Konark Sun Temple: Marvelling at the Architectural Splendor of Odisha’s Heritage

Conceived as Lord Surya’s cosmic chariot drawn by horses in the late 13th century, the architectural wonder of Konark Sun Temple, listed under UNESCO World Heritage, is an absolute masterpiece carved intricately from khondalite stones.

• Konark Sun Temple

While the main sanctum lies in ruins, the survivors, like pillared halls with gorgeous designs, demonstrate the exceptional sculpting skills of bygone eras with its 24 carved enormous wheels flaunting extraordinary artistry down to minute details.

Right from beholding the sacred triad amid grand temple architecture to witnessing artistry etched in beachside caves or stone chariots, Puri lets you discover amazing facets across eras and rulers, unveiling Odisha’s glorious past through spiritual and heritage gems no voyage along the coastline is truly complete without!

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For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram . Read more on Latest Guide News on India.com .

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Top 10 Places to visit in Jagannath Puri Dham

• Post author By gaudiya
• Post date February 12, 2022

Jagannath Puri is located about 60kms from Bhubaneswar, on the coast of the Bay Of Bengal, in the state of Orissa, India. Jagannath Puri is addressed by various names. Some of these names are Sri Kshetra, Purushottama kshetra, Nilachala dham, Jagannath dham, Samanik tirtha, Uddiyan pith, Marta-Vaikuntha, Nilgiri, Niladri, Sankha kshetra, Bhu-svarga, and Nrsimha kshetra. Jagannath Puri is one of the most prominent spiritual sites of India (Bharat). It is said that the Supreme Lord bathes at Badrinath (situated in North India), He changes His clothes at Dwarka (situated in West India), accepts His food at Jagannath Puri (situated in East India), and then proceeds to take rest at Rameshwaram (situated in South India). Here at Jagannath Puri, the Supreme Lord resides in His deity form. Anyone who takes His darsana attains liberation from this material world. By visiting Jagannath Puri, one attains the pious credit of visiting all the other places of pilgrimage. Listed below are some of the exalted places of Jagannath Puri dham.

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#1 Lord Jagannath temple, Puri

The word “Jagannath” stands for “Lord of the Universe”. King Indradyumna had established this temple of Lord Jagannath here on the Nilachal hill. We have narrated the relevant pastimes concerning the history of the Jagannath temple Puri in our previous articles. The present temple was built in the 12th century atop its ruins by the progenitor of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. It is one of the most popular spiritual destinations in India. The structure of Jagannath Temple, Puri is an architectural and cultural wonder. It is about 65 meters in height and is built upon elevated ground, which makes it look imposing. The temple complex comprises an area of approximately 10.7 acres and is enclosed by 2 rectangular walls. The outer enclosure is called ‘Meghanada Prachira’ measuring approximately 200m (665 ft) by 192m (640 ft). The inner wall is called ‘Kurma bheda’, measuring 126m (420 ft) by 95m (315 ft) approximately.

These walls were built during the 15th or 16th centuries. Thirty different smaller temples surround the main temple. The Lord Narasimha temple adjacent to the western side of the Mukti-Mandapa was built before the present temple. In front of the main gate (Simha Dwara) is an 11 m pillar known as Aruna Sthambha. This pillar was once in front of the Sun Temple in Konark. It was bought to puri during the 18th Century. The figure on the pillar is Aruna, the charioteer of the Sun God. The main deities of the temple namely Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi reside on the main shikhara or tower that rises above the inner sanctum. Above the ante-halls, some supplementary towers can be seen. The wall surrounding the temple complex has a gopura or gate over which rises a pyramid-shaped roof. Some of the other temples within the compound house deities of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Lord Rama Chandra, Sakshi Gopal, Hanuman, Lord Narasimha, Lord Varaha, Lakshmi devi, and others. Vimala devi, a form of Goddess Durga, is also worshiped in one of the smaller temples within the compound.

How to Reach :

Jagannath Temple, Puri is situated on the Grand Road of the city of Puri. It is renowned all over the world. After arriving at the city of Puri, one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#2 Gambhira (Sri Radha Kanta Math)

Gambhira is the house of Kasi Misra where Lord Chaitanya resided for the last twelve years of His manifested pastime. Gambhira is situated at Balisahi, to the southeast of Jagannath temple in Puri. The place has also come to be referred to as the ‘Radha Kanta Math’ because ‘Radha Kanta’, a beautiful deity of Sri Krishna, is also worshiped at this place. After accepting His sannyasa, Lord Chaitanya shifted from Bengal to Jagannath Puri. He initially stayed at the residence of Sarvabhauma Bhattacharya. But later, after He returned from His tour of South India, He accepted the Gambhira, the house of Kasi Misra, as His residence. 

During the later stages of His pastime at Gambhira, Lord Chaitanya was so greatly obsessed with the feeling of separation from Krishna, that He exhibited the highest symptoms of devotional ecstasy. His condition was similar to the Gopis of Vrindavan who were devastated after Krishna left for Mathura. The lamentation of Srimati Radharani that was witnessed by Uddhava when he visited Vrindavan after Krishna had left, became a feature of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s transcendental madness. When the Gopis felt separation from Krishna, they underwent ten kinds of bodily transformations. The same manifestations appeared in the body of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Whenever Mahaprabhu manifested such ecstatic emotions, Ramananda Raya and Svarupa Damodara recited various verses from the scriptures or the works of Chandidasa, Bilvamangala Thakura, Jayadeva Goswami to pacify the impassioned heart of Lord Chaitanya. Visiting Gambhira, one can take darsana of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s room, His Kamandulu, footwear and quilt. One can also attain darshan of the enchanting deities of Sri Radhakanta (Krishna), Srimati Radharani, and Lalita devi.

Gambhira or Radhakanta Math, as it is also known, is hardly a 10 minutes walk from Swargadwar in Puri. The Math is also quite near to the Puri Jagannath temple. It is situated at Balisahi, to the south east of Jagannath temple in Puri. The place is quite renowned and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#3 Tota Gopinath temple

After Lord Chaitanya had taken His Sannyasa, He shifted from Bengal to Jagannatha Puri. Sri Gadadhara accompanied the Lord to Puri as well and engaged Himself in the service of Tota Gopinatha. Sri Tota Gopinatha is an exquisitely beautiful Deity of Lord Krishna. Tota Gopinatha is also the most unique as He is the only deity of Krishna who manifests the posture of sitting down. This enchanting deity of Tota Gopinatha jiu was unearthed by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu when He started digging the ground one day, feeling intense separation from Krishna, the Supreme Lord. Crying out “Where is my Prananath? ” Lord Gauranga started digging the ground in divine ecstasy and in the process discovered this enchanting deity.

Sri Gadadhara had dedicated Himself unto the service of this deity ever since. Mahaprabhu named the Deity Gopinath, and because the deity appeared in a garden (garden is called ‘tota’ in Oriya) the devotees refer to Him as Tota Gopinath. Sri Vrindavana das Thakura mentions in Chaitanya Bhagavata, that the heart of even the most demoniac atheist would soften upon taking darsana of this mesmerizing deity of Tota Gopinatha. Every day, at the temple of Tota Gopinatha, Sri Gadadhara Pandita would recite Srimad Bhagavatam and Lord Chaitanya, along with His associates, would often visit to relish the nectar.

Gopinatha temple is situated in Sri Ksetra Jagannatha Puri Dhama in an area named Yamesvara Tota. The temple of Tota Gopinath is located by a large water tower. The temple is hardly a five minutes walk from the Chataka Parvat Purushottam Gaudiya Math temple. The place is renowned as the ‘Tota Gopinath temple’ and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#4 Gangamata Math – Sarvabhauma Bhattacharya’s House

Gangamata Math is situated to the south of the Jagannath temple on the bank of the Sweta Ganga tank in Jagannath Puri. This was previously the residence of Sarvabhauma Bhattacharya. It was here at Gangamata Math that Sri Chaitanya had explained the ‘atmarama’ verse of Srimad-Bhagavatam to Sarvabhauma in eighteen different ways. Sarvabhauma could gradually perceive that Lord Chaitanya was none other than the Supreme Lord. When the Bhattacharya came to his senses, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu disclosed to him His real identity revealing to him His sad-bhuja form (six handed form). The Bhattacharya then recited one hundred verses glorifying Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and offered his obeisances. 

Later Saci devi, princess of Puthia, had taken up Gangamata Math as her residence on the instructions of Sri Haridasa Pandita, her spiritual master. Saci devi came to be later known as Ganga Mata, owing to miraculous pastimes at Sweta Ganga. 

Gangamata Math is situated to the south of the Jagannath temple on the bank of the Sweta Ganga tank in Jagannath Puri. It is hardly a 10 minutes walk from the Jagannath Puri temple. The place is quite renowned and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#5 Siddha Bakul

After Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had accepted His sannyasa, and shifted to Jagannatha Puri, Srila Haridas Thakur followed Him as well. Despite being a stalwart Vaishnava, Srila Haridas had always considered himself to be low-born and exceedingly abominable. Hence, out of his sheer humility, he never entered the premises of the Jagannatha Puri temple. At Puri, Lord Chaitanya had arranged a place for Haridas’s stay, positioned just behind His own residence at Gambhira. The residence of Srila Haridas is renowned today as ‘ Siddha Bakul ’ (Siddha means perfect).

The sacred place has derived its name from a Bakul tree that grows over here. This fortunate tree is over 500 years old and it used to provide its cooling shade under which the Thakur chanted his rounds peacefully. Lord Chaitanya had personally planted a used tooth-stick of Lord Jagannatha into the ground at this place, which immediately grew up and blossomed into this Siddha Bakul tree. To this day, anyone visiting this place can take darsana of this sacred Bakul tree. The tree looks like it has exploded or it appears to be completely dead. Yet it is wonderfully thriving with lush green leaves and fragrant flowers.

Srila Haridas Thakura’s bhajan Kutir (Siddha Bakul) is located on the Bali sahi Road. It is not very far from Gambhira, the erstwhile residence of Lord Chaitanya in Puri. Siddha Bakul is about a Kilometer from the Jagannath temple and about 3 Kms from the Jagannath Puri Railway station. 

#6 Haridas Thakur Samadhi, Swargadwar

About 500 years ago, namacharya Srila Haridas Thakur breathed his last and wrapped up his earthly pastimes at Siddha Bakul in Jagannath Puri. He yearned to pass away while beholding the moonlike face of Lord Gauranga. Lord Gauranga, the Supreme Lord, granted the wish of Haridas, His beloved servant. Holding the lotus feet of Lord Chaitanya upon his heart and drinking the nectar of the Lord’s moon-like face, Haridas incessantly chanted the holy name of Sri Krishna Chaitanya in ecstasy. While chanting thus, he left his body, entering the eternal abode of the Supreme Lord.

Raising the body of Haridas Thakur with His own hands, Lord Chaitanya began dancing in divine ecstasy. There was a tumultuous roar and all the devotees joined in the Harinama sankirtana. Chanting and dancing, Lord Chaitanya led a procession carrying the body of Haridas to the sea. Mahaprabhu bathed the body of Haridas Thakura and then proclaimed that the sea had become a great site of pilgrimage from then on as it touched the transcendental body of Haridas.

haridase samudra jale snana karaila prabhu kahe – “samudra ei ‘maha-tirtha’ haila” (Chaitanya Charitamrta, Antya, 11.64)

All the assembled devotees drank the seawater and touched the lotus feet of Srila Haridas Thakura. Thereafter, a hole was dug in the sand and the transcendental body of Haridas Thakur was placed into it. Amidst loud sankirtana, silken ropes, sandalwood pulp, food, and cloth were placed upon the body. Lord Chaitanya personally covered the body of Haridas with sand. The devotees assisted the Lord and constructed a raised platform on the site. The platform was then enclosed by a fence to give protection. This samadhi of Haridas Thakur is a prominent place for pilgrimage for devotees all over the world even to this day. A temple has since been constructed on the site which houses and protects the samadhi.

Srila Haridas Thakura’s Samadhi is located on Haridas Math Lane, situated on the oceanfront in the area of Swargadwar opposite to ISKCON temple (Bhakti Kuti). 500 years ago, during the time of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu the place was just a sandy beach. There is a nice temple that is now constructed that houses and protects the samadhi. ‘Haridas Thakur Samadhi temple’ is located about 2 Kms from Jagannath Puri temple, 3 Kms from Puri bus stand and 3.5 Kms from Puri Railway Station.

#7 Jagannath Vallabh garden

Jagannath Vallabh Garden , situated on the south of Narendra Sarovara, is considered to be as ancient as the temple of Lord Jagannath. This large garden, full of coconut trees and a cooling pond, is very dear (vallabha) to Lord Jagannath because it grows a variety of flowers and fruits that are engaged in His service. Lord Jagannath’s ‘utsava murti’ (festival Deity) is also brought here on numerous auspicious occasions for Him to relish the various festivities that are conducted here. On the left entrance is situated Jagannath Vallabh Math, which is believed to have been established by the devotees of Sri Vishnuswami sampradaya. This garden is very significant for the Gaudiya Vaishnavas as Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had enacted many of His wonderful pastimes here at this place. Visiting this garden one full moon night in the month of Vaisakha (April-May), Lord Chaitanya made His associates sing the verse from Gita Govinda beginning with the words – ‘Lalita Lavanga Lata’ as He danced about in the garden.

While wandering thus, Sri Chaitanya suddenly saw Krishna underneath an Ashoka tree. As soon as Lord Chaitanya ran towards Him, Krishna smiled and disappeared from His sight. Having found and then lost Krishna, Lord Chaitanya became disheartened and fell unconscious. The whole place was filled with Krishna’s fragrance which further maddened Lord Chaitanya who craved to relish it. On the occasion of the Ratha yatra, it was here at the Jagannath Vallabh Garden that Lord Chaitanya had rested after dancing ecstatically. It was here at Jagannath Vallabh Garden that Lord Chaitanya bestowed His causeless mercy upon King Pratap Rudra who had forsaken his royal robes and approached the Lord dressed as a Vaishnava. It was here at the Jagannath Vallabh garden that the King messaged the legs of Lord Chaitanya and recited verses from Srimad Bhagavatam.

This place is a few hundred meters walk up the Grand Road towards the Jagannath temple. The Garden has a distinctive dark red boundary wall. It is situated on the opposite side of the well-known landmark of Municipal Market.

#8 Gundicha temple

Gundicha temple is situated at the end of Badadanda or Grand Road, to the northeast of the main Jagannath temple. It is at a distance of around two kilometers from the Jagannath temple. Within the Gundicha Temple, there is a ‘Mahavedi’ where the deities of Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra had appeared in Satya Yuga during the time of King Indradyumna. The Gundicha temple is identified as the birthplace of Lord Jagannath and is named after King Indradyumna’s wife, Gundicha Maharani. It was in this area that King Indradyumna had performed a thousand Ashwamedha Yajnas. Lord Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subhadra along with Sudarshan, leave Jagannatha Mandira for nine days. They travel to the Gundicha on the Ratha Yatra day, reside there for seven days, and then on the ninth day, they return to the main temple.

This Journey is also known as Gundicha Yatra, Nava Dina Yatra (nine days Journey), or Ghosa Yatra. It is very auspicious to attain the darshan of Jagannatha during this time. Darshan of Jagannatha during His stay at Gundicha temple is known as ‘Adapa Darshan’. It is mentioned in the scriptures that the darshan of Lord Jagannatha at Gundicha is ten times more spiritually beneficial than taking His darshan at the main Nilachala temple (main temple).

The place where the Gundicha temple is situated is also known as Sundarachala. It is compared to Vrindavan. Gundicha is surrounded by lush gardens and tall coconut trees. Fragrant flowers and shady trees create a Vrindavan-like atmosphere which Lord Jagannath enjoys for 7 days before returning to Jagannath Mandira during Bahuda Yatra (Ulta Rath).

Gundicha is a typical Kalinga temple and has four main components – Vimana (tower housing sanctum), Jagamohana (assembly hall), Nata Mandapa (festive hall), and bhoga Mandapa (Prasadam offering hall). The Kitchen is attached to the main temple via a small passage. The Gundicha temple has no activity throughout the year except for the nine days when the Ratha Yatra takes place and Lord Jagannath resides here.

Gundicha is situated at a distance of just 3 kilometers from the main Jagannath temple in Puri. It is located  at the end of Badadanda or Grand Road. The place is quite renowned and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#9 Lord Narasimha deva temple

This temple of Yajna Narasimha is one of the most ancient Vaishnava Shrines in Jagannath Puri. Situated near the northeast boundary wall of the famous Gundicha Temple, the Narasimha shrine finds its mention in the Skanda Purana and is said to have existed at the time King Indradyumna visited the place in Satya Yuga. King Indradyumna is said to have built a temple for Narasimha and installed the deity therein, with the help of Sage Narada. Indradyumna also performed thousands of Ashwamedha yajnas in this temple, and thus the Deity is known as Yajna Narasimha.

There are two deities of Lord Narasimha one behind the other, that are worshiped in this temple. A deity of ‘Shantha Narasimha’ (peaceful form) is worshiped at the front. This peaceful deity of Narasimha has human-like features- a sharp nose, curvy mustache, and an outstretched tongue. By seeing this form of Narasimha one feels calm causing all of one’s anger to subside. Once a Muslim marauder named Kalapahad ransacked Puri and damaged numerous Deities. But upon seeing this form of ‘Shantha Narasimha’, his anger subsided and he did not harm the Deity. The other Deity who is worshiped inside the temple is that of Ugra Narasimha deva. This is the fearful form of Lord Narasimha Deva.

Lord Narasimha is the fearsome half man-half lion form of the Supreme Lord Krishna, who had manifested Himself out of a pillar to protect His devotee Prahlada from the hands of demon Hiranyakashipu, his father. Hiranyakashipu was a mighty demon who had almost become immortal having been granted boons by Brahma. Hiranyakashipu wreaked havoc by conquering all of the three worlds in this material universe. No one could dare stand up against him in any war. The demigods were overthrown from their kingdoms in heaven and were made to bow at the demon’s feet. Hiranyakashipu was finally killed by Lord Narasimha deva who placed the demon on His lap and ripped open his body with His fingernails.

Yajna Narasimha deva temple is situated at a distance of just 3 kilometers from the Jagannath temple in Puri. It is located at the end of Badadanda or Grand Road near the northeast boundary wall of the famous Gundicha Temple . The place is quite renowned and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

#10 Narendra Sarovar

Narendra Sarovar is a large water body (873 feet long and 743 feet wide) located to the northeast of Jagannath temple in Puri, next to the Jagannath Vallabha garden. This pond is also known as ‘Chandan Pukur’ because the Chandan-yatra of Lord Jagannath takes place here. Narendra Sarovar is said to have been founded by King Bhanu Narasingha deva of Ganga dynasty. It was named after his mentor Nakhaposi Narendra Mahapatra. 

The representative deities of Lord Jagannath come here every evening for 21 consecutive days during His Chandan-yatra, starting from Akshaya-Tritiya (in the month of Vaisakha or April/May) up to Suklastami-tithi in May/June (Jaistha) to enjoy His boating pastimes (Nauka Leela). The boat ride on this serene lake helps relieve the intense summer heat and provide the Lordships with some comfort. It was here at Narendra Sarovar that Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had enjoyed water pastimes along with His associates, 500 years ago, during Lord Jagannath’s Chandan Yatra festival.

Atharnala haite dashdanda haile Mahaprabhu alien Narendra kule Heno kale Ramkrishna Sriyatra Govinda Jalakeli karibare aila Narendra (Chaitanya Bhagavata, Antya, 8.101-102) – Going ten dandas from Atharnala Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu arrived at Narendra Sarovar. At that moment the deities of Krishna Balarama and Sri Govinda had come to enjoy their water pastimes at Narendra Sarovar.

Narendra Sarovar is situated at a distance of about 1.5 kilometers from Jagannath Puri. This is located just beside Jatiya Baba samadhi Mandir in Jagannath Puri. Narendra Sarovar is quite renowned and one can avail cabs to reach here directly.

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Jagannath Puri – Airport, Railway Station & Accommodations

Nearest Railway station – Jagannath Puri Railway Station

Nearest major airport – Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar. 

At the time of writing this article, there is another airport presently being constructed at Jagannath Puri. However, this airport at Puri has not yet become operational.

Accommodation – One can choose to stay in any of the prominent hotels of Jagannath Puri.

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5 Best Places to Visit Near Jagannath Puri Temple

Shree Jagannath Puri Temple is a delighted temple within the Puri district of Odissa, close to Bhubneshwar. The Jagannath Puri is known for its annual Ratha Yatra, or chariot pageant, Konark, during which the 3 principal deities ar force on vast and in an elaborate way embellished temple cars. In 1226, the wonderful temple was created and is currently thought to be a Mokshasthal (place of Peace) as a result of it’s believed that here all desires return true, not like the stone and metal icons found in most Hindu temples. The statue of Lord Jagannath is formed of wood and is ceremonially replaced every twelve or nineteen years by a certain reproduction. Here, the idol of Lord Krishna. The temple is dedicated to a sort of Vishnu (Lord Jagannath or Krishna) that draws innumerable devotees all year spherical. it’s one in all the Char Dham (Badrinath, Rameswaram, Dwaraka, and Puri). Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra ar a trio of deities adored at the temple. The deities are adorned with completely different articles of clothing and jewels per the season. The Puri is conjointly known for Konark temple, Beleswar Beach, Balghai Beach, Puri Beach, and Sudarshan Museum for tourists.

Puri is well-linked by each railway and roadways to the remainder of Bharat. Regular rail and bus services run to and from the town of Bhubneshwar, with buses operated by private. Due to the absence of Airport, there are solely flight connections on the market to Bhubaneshwar. The closest aerodrome is Biju Patnaik International airport and is found in Bhubneshwar, the capital town of Odisha, which is almost 57 kilometers from Jagannath Puri Dham. The closest terminus to Jagannath Puri is Puri station.

Rath-Yatra in Jagannath Puri Temple

The most fascinating time to go to the Puri is throughout the festivals and fairs to get pleasure from to the fullest. The months once Puri is right for a visit is between Rath Yatra . The chariot for Jagannath is concerning some roughly more or less around or so 43 ft high and 34 ft sq. and takes about more than 9 weeks to construct. The Rath-Yatra is additionally termed because of the Shri Gundicha yatra. within the Ratha Yatra, the 3 deities ar taken from the Jagannath Temple within the chariots to the Gundicha Temple, wherever they keep only for 9 days. Thereafter, the deities once more ride the chariots back to Shri Mandir in bahuda yatra. On the means back, the 3 chariots halt at the Mausi Maa Temple, and therefore the deities are offered Poda Pitha, a form of baked cake that is typically consumed by the Odisha individuals solely. The temple is open from 5 AM to 11 PM, not like in several different temples, devotees will go around and behind the idols. throughout the special darshan or parimanik darshan, devotees pay a little fee to travel right up to the statues. All devotees are allowed to travel right up to the deities throughout the sahana mela (general appearance) 7:00 am-8:00 am while not paying any single panic. among the prayer hall, photography is strictly prohibited. The place gets terribly jam-packed throughout the festivals and fairs. So, for such visits, it’s best to book the Hotels, lodges or Rooms ahead.

How To Reach Puri?

You can reach Puri by means of the road from Bhubaneshwar or Khurda. If you wish to travel via airways, then you’ll take a flight to Bhubaneshwar. Jagannath Puri from Bhubaneshwar is often reached by pre-paid taxi or bus by covering 61 kilometers from Bhubaneshwar via the national road (NH-203) in one to one and half hours.

How to Reach Puri by Flight?

Puri doesn’t have flight facility, however, the closest airports are Bhubaneswar airport settled 61 kilometers away and Visakhapatnam airport in the province, which is 371 kilometers away. paid taxis, buses, and trains are on the market from Bhubaneshwar to Puri.

How to Reach Jagannath Puri by Train?

If you prefer to move the train, the closest terminus to Jagannath Puri in Puri. it’s well connected to the cities of India by railways. Connecting travelers trains supply Puri nearest station sufficiently that connects the city to special cities like Bhubaneshwar, Khurda, Vizag, etc. another close railway stations to reach Jagannath Puri are Bhubaneshwar (64 Km), Khurda (45 Km), and Cuttack (89 Km).

You can order delicious food in train at Bhubaneswar Station once your hunger drives you crazy. Order food on-line exploitation train food app and luxuriate in the flavors your would like.

Trains Connecting Nearest Railway Station for Jagannath Puri : 

• 08450 Baidyanathdham Festival Special
• 08420 Jaynagar Puri Special
• 02201 SDH Puri Duronto
• 02802 Purushottam EXPRESS
• 08406 Ahmedabad Puri Spl
• 02837 HW Puri Spl
• 08426 Durg Puri
• 02865 MumbaiLTT Puri Spl
• 09209 Valsad Puri Spl
• 02094 JU Puri Spl
• 02816 Nandan Kanan Spl
• 02038 AII Puri Spl
• 02828 Surat Puri Spl
• 02087 Dhauli Spl
• 02876 Neelanchal Spl

Best Places to Visit Near Jagannath Puri Temple

1. Konark Sun Temple:- (Konark Mandir) is also a 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark relating to 35 km northeast from Puri on the lineation of Odisha, India. In Hindu religious text image Hindu deity is portrayed as rising among the east and traveling quickly across the sky in an extremely chariot drawn by seven horses. he is diagrammatic typically as a resplendent standing person holding a lotus flower in every his hands, riding the chariot marshaled by the charioteer Aruna. The temple follows the quality type of Kalinga style. It’s oriented towards the east that the primary rays of the sunrise strike the foremost entrance.

2. Beleswar Beach: At a distance of seventeen kilometers from Puri and twenty-five kilometers from Konark, Beleswar Beach may be a serene beach located at Beleswar in Puri district of Orissa. conjointly referred to as Baleshwar Beach, this place is one in all the hanging beaches in Odisha and conjointly one in all the popular places to go to in Puri. The beach is found at the mouth of Nuanai stream and also the sight of the stream debilitating into the Bay of the geographic region is spectacular. The beach and also the forest cowl that stretches right along the beach provide an honest place to relax. Sunbathing, swimming and water sports ar in style ways that to pay time on the beach. observation of the sunrise and sunset may be a style tourer activity.

3. Sudarshan Craft Museum:- At a distance of two kilometers from Puri Junction, the Sudarshan Craft deposit is found at station road in Puri. it’s one of all the most effective places to go to in Puri for art lovers. The Sudarshan Craft deposit was started within the year 1977 by Shri Sudarshan Sahoo. The deposit exhibits a nice assortment of creative works done by Sudarshan Sahoo like carvings in wood, stone, and fiberglass, handicraft things, and conjointly fine paintings. among the premises of deposit, one will witness a Buddhist temple in-built a Japanese vogue, a library, and a workshop. Timings: 8 AM – 12 PM & 2 PM – 8 PM, Closed on Saturdays & Sundays

4. Balghai Beach: – At a distance of eight-kilometer for Puri, Balghai Beach may be a pristine beach on the value of the Bay of the geographic region on Puri – Konark Marine Drive Road in Odisha. located at the mouth of Nuanai stream, Balghai Beach is one in all the foremost notable beaches in Odisha and is comparatively undiscovered. Pacific ridley Turtles visit the beach throughout Dec and Gregorian calendar month to get eggs and plenty of migratory birds may be seen throughout winter months. Here boat riding, water sport and gliding facilities ar out there for tourists. guests {can also|also will|can even|may also|may} visit the Balihirana ruminant Sanctuary wherever one can spot the vulnerable Balihirana bovid and Indian Black greenbacks. the ocean Turtle analysis Centre, a brief distance from the beach, is additionally valuable a visit.

5. Puri Beach:- At a distance of two kilometers from Jagannath Temple and a couple of of.5 kilometers from Puri Junction, Puri Beach may be a pristine ocean beach situated on the coast of the Bay of the geographic region in Puri, Odisha. it’s thought-about united of the cleanest beaches in Bharat and conjointly one in all the most effective Puri tourer Places. famous for its fine white sands and crystal clear waters, Puri Beach is sort of renowned for its peaceful and calm surroundings. The beach has continuing to be a sacred venue and is visited by an endless range of pilgrims for a purification dip United Nations agency return to Puri to pay their deference to Lord Jagannath. The long white sandy beach attracts massive numbers of foreigners and Indians. Guests will take a stroll, browse pearls and shell souvenirs sold by native vendors.

Local Foods in Jagannath Puri

Puri has some delicious ancient Odisha dishes to supply. whereas in Puri, relish a number of the renowned Odisha cuisines from the native restaurants together with Malpua, Chungdi Malai, Pitha, Macha Chenncheda, Dalma, Rasabali, and also the Chungdi Malai sweet.

During the journey of Jagannath Puri by train, any travelers can order food in train online through RailRecipe App or Website.

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7 must-visit places during your Jagannath Puri tour

Jul 06, 2015 Gopeesha Dasa Pilgrimage 2

Puri is one of the holiest places to visit in India and there are also other places worth a visit at the time of Jagannath Puri tour.

If you are planning to go on a tour to Puri on the occasion of  Ratha Yatra  festival of Lord Jagannatha or sometime later, here are some interesting historical places around Puri for you to visit and make your tour a memorable experience. Also please exercise caution with people who offer to assist and guide you while touring these places.

1) Sakshi-gopala Temple

2) Alarnatha Temple

Lord Alarnatha, a four-handed Deity of Lord Vishnu in this temple was carved and worshipped by Lord Brahma in Satya-yuga. The temple is visited by a large number of devotees especially during the anavasara period of Lord Jagannatha in Puri on the occasion of Puri Ratha-yatra festival.  Read more…

Table of Contents

• 1 3) Kshira-chora Gopinatha Temple
• 2 4) Konark Sun Temple
• 3 5) Lingaraja Temple
• 4 6) Chilika Lake 
• 5 7) Jajpura (Yajapura)

3) Kshira-chora Gopinatha Temple

Situated in Remuna near Balasore, Kshira-chora Gopinatha temple is well-known for its Deity of Gopinatha who stole a pot of sweet rice for His dear devotee, Sri Madhavendra Puri, a great Vaishnava sannyasi. You can relish delicious kshira prasadam (sweet rice), called Amruta Keli here.  Read more…

4) Konark Sun Temple

This famous 13th century temple is one of the architectural wonders of India. The stone structure in the shape of an intricately sculpted giant chariot includes mighty wheels and horses. The amazing thing is that these wheels are sundials which can be used to calculate time precisely to a minute including day and night.  Read more…

5) Lingaraja Temple

Bhubaneshwar is the capital city of Odisha and is also the city of temples. Lingaraja temple is the largest of these temples and is an outstanding specimen of the Odisha style of temple building. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva . The Shiva linga here is one of the twelve jyotirlingas in India. Read more…

6) Chilika Lake 

Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water bay with many beautiful islands which are popular stops for one day boat trips. The lake is home to an extraordinary variety of birds. A visit to this place between November and February offers you a remarkable display of its colorful birds. A fascinating pastime of Lord Jagannatha took place near the lake.  Read more…

7) Jajpura (Yajapura)

Jajpura is a historical place of pilgrimage, located in Jajpur district of Odisha. It was one of the capital cities of King Yayati. Jajpura is also called Nabhi-gaya. Since this place is sacred to Goddess Biraja, it is also known as Biraja-ksetra. There are numerous temples of demigods and incarnations of Lord Vishnu here including a temple of Lord Varahanatha.  Read more…

Gopeesha Dasa

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2 thoughts on “ 7 must-visit places during your jagannath puri tour ”.

Please help to visit Puri Jagannath Temple

I want to know how many touriest places in between puri to rameshwaram because we all unknown about south

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 Puri Jagannath Temple: A Comprehensive Visitor’s Guide

Are you planning a visit to the sacred Puri Jagannath Temple in Odisha? This iconic temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath stands as a beacon of spiritual significance, drawing lakhs of devotees and visitors annually. Its historical roots run deep, unveiling tales of devotion and cultural heritage. The awe-inspiring architecture of the temple is a demonstration of ancient craftsmanship and intricate design, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into India’s architectural magnificence.

 As you explore its hallowed grounds, you’ll witness ongoing development projects, including the notable Parikrama initiative which was inaugurated recently, contributing to the temple’s continued growth and significance. This comprehensive guide aims to unravel the temple’s past, tell the secrets of its architectural marvels, shed light on the Parikrama project’s importance, and equip you with essential visitor information. Join us on this enlightening journey, and let the wonders of the Puri Jagannath Temple unfold before you.

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History of Puri Jagannath Temple

The history of the Puri Jagannath Temple dates back to the 12th century when it was constructed under the patronage of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Dev. The temple complex was later completed by King Ananga Bhima Deva. The construction of the temple was a grand endeavor, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the time. The temple has witnessed numerous invasions and renovations throughout its history.

According to legend, the temple’s origins can be traced back to King Indradyumna, who had a vision of Lord Vishnu manifesting as Nila Madhava. After a series of divine interventions, the king was guided to build the temple, and the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra were installed in the sanctum sanctorum.

Architecture of Puri Jagannath Temple

The Puri Jagannath Temple showcases the exquisite Kalinga style of architecture, covering an expansive 37,000 square meters within the impressive Meghananda Pacheri wall. The main temple, with its unique curvilinear structure, is adorned with the iconic Nila Chakra, a circular wheel crafted from eight metals.

As you explore the temple complex, you’ll see q number of smaller temples and shrines, each contributing to the overall magnificence of the main temple. Notable features include the Arun Stambha, an ancient monolithic pillar, and the Mukti Mandapa, a platform adorned with intricate carvings The entrance gates, including Singhdwara, Hathidwara, Vyaghradwara, and Ashwadwara, are guarded by statues representing lions, elephants, tigers, and horses, respectively.

 These intricate details not only enhance the architectural beauty but also symbolize the temple’s cultural and historical significance, making it a captivating destination for those seeking to delve into the rich heritage of the Puri Jagannath Temple.

Related Article: Visiting The Magnificent Konark Sun Temple in Odisha

 Inside the Puri Jagannath Temple Complex

Within the inner compound, you’ll discover not only the main temple but also several other temples, bije sthalis, and various monuments and structures, as indicated on the temple map in the Record of Rights. Explore the rich diversity of sacred sites and historical elements within this revered complex. Here we have listed a few that you must not miss during your visit to Puri Jagannath Temple.

Vimala Temple –As you explore the inner enclosure of the main temple, you will find Vimala temple facing East. This ancient temple holds the distinction of being the oldest among its peers. The Matsya Purana, Kapila Samhita, Skanda Purana, Tantra Chudamani, and Devi Bhagabata all make references to Maa Vimala. According to Tantra Sastra, Maa Vimala and Shree Jagannatha are revered as Bhairavi and Bhairava.

The goddess’s image is believed to be crafted from Laksa (wax) and features four arms. In her hands, she holds an aksamala (rosary), a human figure, and a kalasa (jar), while her fourth hand is poised in the ‘Varada’ gesture. Recognized as a prominent ‘Shakti Pitha’ in India, this temple sees the offering of Shree Jagannatha’s Prasada to Maa Vimala. Notably, Saradiya Shola puja and special rites are observed annually during the month of Aswaina in this sacred abode.

Satya Narayana Temple –This temple houses a four-armed statue of Shree Narayana. In the upper right hand, there is a disc, while the lower right hand displays the ‘Abhaya mudra’. The upper left hand holds a conch, and the lower left hand wields a mace. The granite statue stands at a height of 5 feet. Jaya and Vijaya stand on both sides, and at the feet of Satya Narayana, Garuda is positioned, kneeling down. The temple is oriented towards the North..

Shree Nrusingha Temple – On the Southern side of the temple within its inner enclosure you come across a shrine dedicated to Nrusingha, facing east. This temple is a Panchratha Rekha Deula without a Jagamohana and predates the construction of the present Shree Mandira. Ancient stone inscriptions adorn the exterior wall of the temple. The main deity of the shrine is Nrusingha, and a diminutive image of the deity is positioned on a lofty seat inside the temple.

Lakshmi Temple – Another very important temple inside the temple complex is Lakshmi temple which is at the North-Western corner of the inner enclosure of the main temple. Tradition holds that a ruler from the Ganga dynasty in the 12th-13th century A.D. constructed the temple. The temple shares a nearly same architectural style with the Jagannatha temple. Within its sanctum, Goddess Lakshmi is venerated. As a form of Gajalakshmi, she holds two elephants in her upper two hands, displaying a four-armed form with the lower hands in the ‘abhaya’ and ‘varada’ postures.

Surya Temple – Located on the Northern side of the Shree Jagannatha temple and facing East, this temple follows a saptaratha plan. The main deity of the temple is Surya, the Sun God. The image of the Sun enshrined in the temple is said to have been transported from Konark by King Narasimha Deva of the Bhoj dynasty (1622-1647 A.D.)

Bata Ganesha Temple –This is a significant temple devoted to Lord Ganesha situated below the Kalpabata within the temple compound. Referred to as the Bata Ganesha temple, it features the image of Ganesha’s vehicle, the mouse, placed in front of the temple. Historical references indicate that in the 16th century, the poet Jagannatha Das would sit beside this temple and recite his Odia Bhagavata compositions to sizable gatherings.

Kanchi Ganesha Temple -The deity is also referred to as Bhanda Ganesha. Located  on the Western side of the temple premise, this temple houses an image that is said to have been brought from Kanchi by Gajapati Purushottama Deva during his Kanchi expedition. The deity is depicted as four-armed, with the image of his consort placed on his lap. Due to the deity’s erotic nature, the image is thought to be a Tantric representation.

Kalpabata (Tree) – Within the inner enclosure of the temple, on its southern side, stands a majestic banyan tree known as ‘Kalpabata.’ This ancient tree is prominently featured in both the Skanda Purana and Brahma Purana. According to local beliefs, individuals who circumambulate the sacred Kalpabata and step on its shadow are believed to attain ‘Kesavalaya,’ signifying the divine abode of Vishnu. The tree, steeped in mythological significance, serves as a serene spot for devotees to engage in spiritual practices and rituals.

Rohini Kunda (Pool) –As per the Skanda Purana, within the navel region of this sacred site, you will find three significant elements: the Rohini Kunda, the Kalpabata, and the divine image. The Rohini Kunda, a revered pool, is located slightly to the west of the banyan tree, considered sacred due to the presence of Vishnu and Lakshmi. Presently, the pool is manifested as a stone water-vat, devoid of natural water. Within this vat, two carvings are featured in separate squares—one depicting the Nila Chakra of Vishnu, and the other portraying a four-handed crow. You receive blessings as water is poured and sprinkled from this symbolic representation.

Mukti Mandapa (Brahmasana) –You will find the Mukti Mandapa to be a structure measuring 38 feet in length and 38 feet in width, forming a square shape with 16 pillars. According to Madalapanji, historical records state that the renovation of this sacred space was carried out by Gourirani, the wife of Mansingh, the chief of the army of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The Mukti Mandapa holds significance as a place where Brahmin pandits from specific villages, Dandi sanyasis, Jagadguru Sankaracharya, Deula Purohita, and Rajgurus are granted the privilege to sit.

The Divine Kitchen or Roshanara – One of the most fascinating aspects of the Jagannath Temple is its mega kitchen, known as the Rosaghora. This kitchen is recognized as the world’s largest Satvik kitchen, where food is prepared following traditional Hindu culinary practices. Over 1,000 dedicated cooks work tirelessly to prepare 56 different types of offerings, collectively known as Chhappan Bhog, which are served to the deities six times a day. The kitchen is spread over an acre and is believed to be supervised by the goddess Mahalakshmi herself.

Do Read: Exploring the Cultural Tapestry: Raghurajpur Heritage Village

The Sacred Mahaprasada of Puri Jagannath Temple

The Mahaprasada, the divine offering of the Jagannath Temple, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. After being offered to Lord Jagannath, the food becomes sanctified, and it is then made available to the devotees as Mahaprasada. Traditional rituals are followed during the offering, and the food is served on banana leaves. Pilgrims can savor the Mahaprasada in the Ananda Bazar area or opt for priests to deliver packets of Mahaprasada to their accommodations. The assortment of dishes includes various rice preparations, vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and sweet delicacies.

The Parikrama Project or Heritage Corridor

The Shree Jagannath Parikrama Prakalp, also known as the heritage corridor project, aims to transform Puri into a world-class city while preserving its cultural heritage. The project involved the construction of a 75-meter corridor around the temple, providing unobstructed views and enhancing the overall experience for devotees. The project was inaugurated and opened to the public recently.

The heritage corridor features terraced landscapes, a Parikrama pathway, gardens showcasing local varieties of trees and shrubs, cloakrooms, drinking water fountains, toilets, and information-cum-donation kiosks. Additionally, a grand reception center with a capacity of 6,000 people and queue management facilities will be built to ensure a seamless visit for devotees.

 The Parikrama project represents a significant milestone in the temple’s ongoing development and its journey towards becoming a world-class spiritual destination.

Dress Code and Code of Conduct

To maintain the sanctity of the Puri Jagannath Temple, a dress code has been implemented for devotees. Proper attire is expected, and visitors wearing half pants, shorts, torn jeans, skirts, or sleeveless dresses are not permitted to enter the temple premises. Devotees are advised to dress modestly and respectfully, keeping in mind the sacredness of the place.

In addition to the dress code, the temple administration has also imposed certain rules and regulations to ensure a peaceful and harmonious environment for all visitors. Chewing gutkha and pan is strictly prohibited within the temple premises, and the use of plastic and polythene has been banned to promote environmental sustainability.

Also Read: 10 must-visit temples of Bhubaneswar

How to Reach Puri Jagannath Temple

Puri is located in the eastern state of Odisha and is well-connected by air, rail, and road networks. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 kilometers away from Puri. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri.

Puri also has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. Regular trains operate to and from Puri, making it a convenient mode of transportation for devotees and tourists.

For those traveling by road, Puri is connected to various cities in Odisha and neighboring states through a well-maintained road network. State-run buses, private taxis, and car rentals are readily available for transportation within the city.

Visiting Hours and Entry Fees

The Puri Jagannath Temple is open to devotees and visitors from 5:00 AM to midnight. To avoid large crowds, it is advisable to visit early in the morning around 7:00 AM or after 9:00 PM. The serene ambiance during these hours enhances the spiritual experience. There are no entry fees to visit the temple.

Important Rituals and Festivals

The Puri Jagannath Temple is known for its rich tradition of rituals and festivals. Devotees can witness and participate in various ceremonies that take place throughout the year. Some of the significant rituals include the daily rituals of bathing, dressing, and offering food to the deities. The temple follows a strict schedule of rituals, reflecting the daily routine of Lord Jagannath.

One of the most prominent festivals celebrated at the temple is the Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival. During this grand event, the deities are taken out of the temple in elaborately decorated chariots and pulled by devotees through the streets of Puri. The Rath Yatra attracts millions of devotees who come to witness this spectacular procession. Other significant festivals include Chandan Yatra, Snan Yatra, Anavasara, and Nava Kalebara.

Other Places of Interest near Puri

While in Puri, make sure to explore the other attractions the city has to offer. Some notable places to visit near Puri include:

• Raghurajpur Handicraft Village: Located just a short drive from Puri, this village is known for its artisans and traditional crafts, particularly Pattachitra paintings.
• Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Konark Sun Temple is a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
• Puri Beach: The bustling Puri Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore or indulge in water activities.
• Chilika Lake: Located near Puri, Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and a haven for bird-watching and boating enthusiasts.

 Tips for Visiting Puri Jagannath Temple

• Plan your visit during the off-peak season to avoid crowds and long queues.
• Respect the religious customs and traditions of the temple. Avoid touching the deities or offering any personal belongings inside the temple.
• Follow the instructions of the temple priests and authorities to maintain order and decorum.
• Be cautious of unauthorized individuals who may try to extract money or offer unsolicited services. It is advisable to ignore such individuals and seek assistance from the temple administration if needed.
• Take off your shoes and deposit any belongings, including mobile phones and leather items, at the designated storage facility near the temple entrance.

Do Read: Visiting Bhubaneswar? The Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves are a Must-See

Accommodation Options

Puri offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts and hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and lodges, there is something for every traveler. Some popular options include Pramod Convention & Beach Resort, Mayfair Waves, Balaji International, and Hotel Pushpa. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.

The Puri Jagannath Temple beckons you not only as a place of worship but as a cultural and spiritual landmark, enchanting devotees and visitors for centuries. Delve into its fascinating history, marvel at its awe-inspiring architecture, and experience ongoing development projects amidst a vibrant atmosphere.

Your visit promises a lifetime experience – immerse yourself in the divine aura, witness grand rituals, and embrace the spiritual energy that fills the air. A journey to the Puri Jagannath Temple is a journey to the heart of Hindu spirituality, inviting you to explore its profound significance and cultural richness.

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PURI TOURISM | JAGANNATH TEMPLE | PLACES TO VISIT & TEMPLES IN PURI

• Puri Overview
• Top 14 Places to Visit in Puri
• 17 Best Puri Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Puri
• Best Time to Visit Puri

How to Reach Puri

• Puri Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Puri

Country: India | State: Orissa

#1 of 3 places to visit in orissa | #24 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: puri, nearest city to puri: puri, bhubaneswar (58 kms), best time to visit puri: october to march, peak season: november to february, puri weather: summer: maximum - 45°c and minimum - 23°c winter: maximum - 32°c and minimum - 12°c.

At a distance of 36 km from Konark, 58 km from Bhubaneswar, 82 km from Cuttack, 390 km from Rourkela, 407 km from Jamshedpur, 434 km from Vizag, 495 km from Kolkata, and 522 km from Ranchi, Puri is an ancient temple town situated along the coast of Bay of Bengal in Odisha. Puri is one of the places of original holy Char Dham Yatra of Hinduism and also one of the top places to experience Odisha Tourism. Earlier called as ShriKhetra, Purushottama Khetra, and Jagannath Puri, Puri is home to the world famous Sri Jagannath Temple. Often referred as the spiritual capital of Odisha, Puri forms the Golden Triangle of Orissa along with Konark and Bhubaneswar. Puri became an important center of pilgrimage with the arrival of Gangas in the 12th century and emerged as one of the centers of Vaishnavism. Anantavarman Chodaganga, one of the powerful rulers of Puri, established the Purushottama Temple and later came to be known as the Jagannath Temple in the 15th century. According to history, Puri and the Jagannath Temple were invaded 18 times by Hindu and Muslim rulers from 4th century AD till the early 19th century. Puri was declared as the capital of Odisha under the British till 1816 CE. In 1828 CE the whole territory was separated into three regions, Katak, Balasore, and Jagannath Puri. In 1936 CE Odisha was divided from the state of Bihar and Puri was formed in 1948 CE. Dedicated Lord Vishnu, Lord Jagannath Temple is one of the prime places to visit in Puri and is a sacred place for the Hindus. Besides Jaganath Mandir, Puri has so many tourist attractions like Puri Beach, Gundicha Temple, Lokanath Temple, Alarnath Temple, Bedi Hanuman Temple, Pipili, Raghurajpur and Chilika Lake & Sanctuary. Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport which is about 59 km from Puri. It has direct flights from Bangalore, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Puri Junction is well connected by trains with Patna, Rourkela, Mumbai, Bikaner, Howrah, Cuttack, Tirupati, Guwahati, Okha, Bangalore, Haridwar, New Delhi, Sambalpur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Ajmer, and Shirdi. Puri is well connected by bus with Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Rourkela, Cuttack and Vizag. Bhubaneswar is the nearest major bus station to Puri. Puri is famous for its annual festival of Chariots, the 'Ratha Yatra', which is held during the month of June /July and has been attracting pilgrims and tourists for centuries. It is the sacred journey of Lord Jagannath with brother Balabhadra & sister Subhadra from the main Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Mandir for nine days. The best time to visit Puri is from November to February. Being a coastal town, Puri has extreme weather conditions in summer while in monsoons the city witnesses medium to heavy rainfall. Winter climate is pleasant and is suitable for sightseeing.

...read more

Nearest Airport: Bhubaneswar - Biju Patnaik Airport (59 Kms)

Direct flights to bhubaneswar, nearest train station: puri junction railway station (0 kms), direct trains to puri, nearest bus station: puri bus station (1.5 kms), direct buses to puri, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to puri, top 10 places to visit in puri, sri jagannath temple.

#1 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 2.5 km from Puri Junction, Jagannath Temple is a sacred temple situated in the heart of Puri town in Orissa. It is the most revered pilgrimage site for Hindus as it is included in the pious Char Dham Yatra with Badrinath, Dwarka and Rameshwaram. This world famous temple is one of prime places to visit in Puri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu and is one of the major Hindu Temples in India. The present temple was built by Anantavarman Chodaganga (1077 - 1150 CE) of Eastern Ganga dynasty, replacing an earlier structure which probably dated to the 10th century CE. Later, King Ananga Bhima Deva II (1170-1198) did much to continue the work of Chodaganga Deva, building the walls around the temple and many of the other shrines on the temple grounds. The temple structure is full of excellent carvings and is a fine specimen of Kalinga style of architecture. Spread over an area of 4, 00,000 square feet with 20 feet high fortified wall, .....

#2 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 2 km from Jagannath Temple and 2.5 km from Puri Junction, Puri Beach is a pristine sea beach located along the coast of Bay of Bengal in Puri, Odisha. It is considered as one of the cleanest beaches in India and also one of the best Puri Tourist Places. Known for its fine white sands and crystal clear waters, Puri Beach is quite famous for its peaceful and calm surroundings. The beach has continued to be a sacred venue and is visited by an endless number of pilgrims for a purification dip who come to Puri to pay their homage to Lord Jagannath. The long white sandy beach draws large numbers of foreigners and Indians. Visitors can take a stroll, browse pearls and seashell souvenirs sold by local vendors. The beach is also famous for the sand sculptures made by internationally known sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik. The subjects are generally inspired by sculptures covering the temple walls, characters and episodes from the mythology and also the contemporary events. .....

Gundicha Temple

#3 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 1.5 km from Puri Junction and 3 km from Sri Jagannath Temple, Gundicha Temple is one of the most renowned Hindu temples in Puri. Gundicha Temple is a common place of the festivities during the annual Ratha Yatra and is also one of the most famous places to visit in Puri. The Gundicha Ghar was built by the Gundicha Maharani, the queen of King Indradyumna the founder of the 1st Jagannath Temple. The temple is located right next to the Jagannath Temple and is popularly referred to as His aunt's house because when the Rath Yatra festival takes place, Lord Jagannath is shifted to the Gundicha Temple for seven days. It is also known as Garden House of Lord Jagannath as it is located in the middle of a beautiful garden. Gundicha Temple has some interesting legends related to it. According to one legend, Gundicha, the queen of the King Indradyumna, was a great devotee of Lord Jagannatha. Because of her deep devotion, Lord Jagannath promises her to come to her house .....

Narendra Tank / Narendra Pokhari

#4 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 1 km from Jagannath Temple and 2.5 km from Puri Junction, Narendra Tank or Narendra Pokhari is a holy tank situated at Mauza Dandimala Sahi in Puri. This is one of the largest tanks in Orissa and also one of the must visit places in Puri. The tank was built in 15th century AD by Narendra Dev, who shouldered the responsibility of the kingdom with Purushottama. The tank is spread over a vast area, which features an island in the middle, housing a small temple called Chandana Mandapa which is connected to the southern bank with a bridge. This tank is considered holy and has a lot of small and big temples surrounding it. The water level of the tank is 10 feet below the present road level. The tank covers 16 ghats which provide an opportunity for the pilgrims to have a holy bath. The main ghat has a flight of steps made up of Khondalite. Also known as Chandana Pushkarini, this is the holy tank in which the famed Chandana Yatra of Lord Jagannath celebrated annually. .....

Balghai Beach

#5 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 8 km for Puri, Balghai Beach is a pristine beach along the cost of Bay of Bengal on Puri - Konark Marine Drive Road in Odisha. Situated at the mouth of Nuanai River, Balghai Beach is one of the most notable beaches in Odisha and is relatively undiscovered. This white sandy beach is ringed by casuarina trees, Alaska and Eucalyptus trees. The beach is completely standalone out of the crowd that attracts lots of tourists who are craving for some relaxing quite time. The magnificent view of Sunrise and Sunset from the beach amidst dazzling golden hues is an unforgettable experience for everyone who comes here from far off places. Olive Ridley Turtles visit the beach during December and January to lay eggs and many migratory birds can be seen during winter months. Here boat riding, water skiing and parasailing facilities are available for tourists. Visitors can also visit the Balihirana Deer Sanctuary where one can spot the endangered Balihirana antelope and Indian .....

Sudarshan Craft Museum

#6 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 2 km from Puri Junction, Sudarshan Craft Museum is located at station road in Puri. It is one of the best places to visit in Puri for art lovers. The Sudarshan Craft Museum was started in the year 1977 by Shri Sudarhsan Sahoo. The museum exhibits great collection of artistic works done by Sudarshan Sahoo like carvings in wood, stone and fiber glass, handicraft items and also fine paintings. Within the premises of museum, one can witness a Buddhist temple built in a Japanese style, a library and a workshop. This museum is a must visit place for art lovers as it gives a very enriching and knowledgeable experience to visitors. The items kept on display are rare works of art and are the gems of tradition and culture of the nation. The museum has metal figurines, stone carvings too for sale. The museum provides a platform for budding artists to showcase their talent to the world. Timings: 8 AM - 12 PM & 2 PM - 8 PM, Closed on Saturdays & Sundays Entry .....

Alarnatha Temple

#7 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 22 km from Puri, Alarnatha Temple is an ancient temple located in Brahmagiri near Puri. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this is one of the famous temples of Lord Vishnu in Odisha and also one of the must visit places in Puri. The present temple of Lord Alarnatha is said to be two hundred years older than the Jagannatha Temple in Puri. The temple is not a big tourist destination but a famous religious place for all Krishna devotees. Legend says that Lord Brahma came and worshipped Lord Vishnu here on top of a hill. According to history, the rulers of Alwar in Rajasthan had established the temple here. The temple was later known as Alwarnath or Alarnath. The temple is associated with the visit of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to Orissa. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu during his stay in Puri used to see Lord Jagannath daily. During Anavasara period when Lord and his siblings were taken to the secret chamber for 15 days, he was unable to see his dear Lord. So as per the legend lord directed .....

Lokanath Temple

#8 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 2 km from Sri Jagannath Temple and 4.5 km from Puri Junction, Lokanath Temple is an ancient temple located in the town of Puri. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the most important Shiva shrines of Odisha and also one of the popular places to visit in Puri. The presiding deity of this 11th century temple is Lord Lokanath in the form of lingam. According to history, the lingam in this temple was established by Lord Rama. While Lord Rama on his way to Sri Lanka for searching Sita reached Puri and sat with a vow to see Shiva here. At that time, there was a village named Sabarapalli nearby presented him a Lau or Lauka (Pumpkin) looking like a Shiva linga. Lord Rama installed that as a replica of Siva linga at that place and prayed Shiva to fulfill his desire. Thus the temple is called Laukanatha and later named as Lokanath Temple. The unique feature of the temple is the Shiva linga is always submerged with water which substantiates the legend that Goddess Ganga .....

Markandeshwara Temple

#9 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 1 km from Sri Jagannath Temple and 3 km from Puri Junction, Markandeshwara Temple is one of the famous Hindu temples in Puri town of Odisha. The temple is situated on Markandeshwar Street adjacent to Markandeshwar tank to the north of the Jagannath Temple. This is one of the Pancha Tirthas of Puri and also one of the fifty two sacred Shiva places in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be from Ganga dynasty dating back to 12th century. According to the mythology, sage Markandeya was saved by Lord Shiva from a great danger. Sage Markandeya erected a Shiva temple out of dedication. Also known as Markandeya Shiva Temple and Markandeshwara Mahadeva Temple, the temple is connected with the rituals of Chandan Yatra, Balabhadra Janma, Ashram Bije, Sital Sasthi, Kaliyadalan etc. of the Jagannath Temple. Markandeya tank is an open structure and it enclosed within a stone wall made of laterite blocks. The tank is presently used for rituals .....

Bedi Hanuman Temple

#10 of 14 Places to Visit in Puri

At a distance of 1.5 km from Puri Junction and 3 km from Jagannath Temple, Bedi Hanuman Temple is a small sea side temple situated to the west of Chakra Narayan Temple in Puri. Known as Daria Mahavir Temple, it is one of the famous temples in Puri. The temple is dedicated Lord Hanuman. On local language, 'Daria' Means Sea and Mahavir is another name of Lord Hanuman. The temple has an interesting story behind the name 'Bedi Hanuman'. It is believed that Daria Mahavir protects Puri against the fury of the sea. But when the Jagannath Temple was built, Varuna, the God of the Sea, able to came to the Jagannath temple to pay his respects. In the meantime sea water entered the city, causing considerable damage to the temple. The devotees prayed to Lord Jagannath who asked Hanuman to explain how the sea entered the city in his presence. Lord Hanuman told that he was not present at that time and was left for Ayodhya without informing him. On hearing about Lord Hanuman's unscheduled .....

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The best guide for travel to Puri Jagannath Temple

• by Pandit Rashmi Ranjan Rath
• Famous Temples travel guide

The guide travel to Puri prepared with a view to helping the tourists and pilgrims. They can visit the famous places of the Puri district. It makes his/their travel journey memorable & enjoyable.

The Puri is a coastal district in the eastern part of Odisha which is famous for Lord Jagannath Temple. It is a beautiful tourist place and peoples from all over the world visited this place. It is a 60 km distance from the capital of Odisha.

It is also known as the heritage city of Odisha. The popular names of Puri are Jagannath Dham, Purusottama Kshetra, Shree kshetra, etc.

Which is the best time to travel to Puri Jagannath Temple?

This is a suitable tourist place for all the season. But from October to the end of February is the best time for tourists.

During this period the climate of Puri is very pleasant and the temperature of the climate is 10 0c to 20 0c . The period of Rath Yatra (July to August). It is a great time for pilgrims to take part in the Chariot festival of Lord Jagannath.

How to travel to Puri?

This place is well connecting with the Railway, Bus, and Air, etc.

The NH-356 is connected from Bhubaneswar to Puri. The following communication facility is available for Puri.

It is connected with inter-state through Railway lines. Many trains up/down from Puri to different states of India.

The station code of Puri railway station is “PURI”. The station name of Puri is also called “Puri railway station”.

You can check the train names from your source to destination Puri through the IRCTC website .

Puri station is in the heart of the city and nearest to all hotels. The Jagannath temple is 2km from the station and the Sea beach is 1.5km from the Puri station.

  Bus services are available from Kolkata to Puri. But from other states, train communication is better.

The inter-district bus communication to Puri is very good. The bus stand of Puri is at Srigudicha Temple. It is 3km distance from Jagannath temple and also 3km distance from the sea beach.

The nearest airport is Biju Pattanaik International Airport at Bhubaneswar. It is a 60km distance from Puri.

You can travel to Puri by train from Bhubaneswar railway station.

or travel through City bus

or taxi from Bhubaneswar.

Is the lodging facility well in Puri?

Yes, the lodging facility is very well in Puri city. You can find your budget hotel near Sea beach as well as Grand road Puri.

The hotel and Lodges are starts from Rs.500 per day onwards. You can book Lodging through the websites of hotels and also compare the price as per your budget. The check-out time of Puri Hotels is 7 am/8 am morning.

The lodging facilities are also provided by the Puri temple administration. The pilgrims book their accommodation at an affordable price on the following lodging.

1. Neeladri Bhakta Niwas- It is near the town Police station. It is about 500m distance from the temple. It is 2km distance from the railway station and sea Beach.

2. Shree Gundicha Bhakta Niwas- It is about 3km from the Jagannath temple and Sea beach. It is near Gundicha Temple.

3. Nilachal Bhakta and Yatri Niwas- It is Infront of the town Police station. It is about 500m distance from the temple. It is 2km distance from the railway station and sea Beach

You can contact and book these hotels through their Puri temple online website .

Is there any Shoe and mobile stand near Jagannath Temple?

Yes, The temple administration provided this facility to all for free of cost. The stand situated on the right side of the entrance gate as shown in the below picture.

There is a very nice arrangement by the Temple administration for the Pilgrims. All visitors kept their mobile, Belt, Shoe, etc. on the stand.

The stand provided a Bag in which you can put your shoe, Belt, Mobile, etc. in the different packets. Then handover it to the stand authorities. They will check these articles and provide you a ticket. At the time of returning, you can show your ticket at the exit gate and taken back your articles.

Is there any information center near Jagannath Temple?

Yes, the Shree Jagannath temple information center is on the right side of the entrance. It is next to the mobile stand.

What are the famous places in Puri?

The following places are famous tourist places in the Puri district.

• Shree Jagannath Temple – The world-famous Jagannath temple architecture and traditional engineering is very magnificent.
• Loknath Temple – This is a famous Shiva Temple at a distance of 3.5km from Puri city. Local buses, taxis, and auto are available to visit this temple.
• Puri Sea Beach- The sea beach of Puri is very beautiful. You need to adopt the safety measures during bathing on the Sea beach. You also take the help of Security guards for safety tips of the beach.
• Alarnath Temple- This temple situated in Brahmagiri which is 24km from Puri city. The Lord Vishnu is worshipped in this temple as  Alarnath.
• Satapada Dolphin sanctuary – It is a 50km distance from Puri city. Satapada on Chilika is very famous for  Dolphins. It is a very nice place for boating.
• Sun Temple Konark & Marine Drive- Sun Temple Konark is 34km distance from Puri town. Bus, Taxi & auto always available to visit the world-famous Konark temple. The road from Puri to Konark known as Marine Drive. The place is very much attractive. It causes most of the filmmakers to love to have scenes for their films here.
• Sakhigopal Temple – This Temple know as Satyabadi Gopinatha Temple. It is an 18 km distance from Puri town. This temple is famous for touching the Radha’s feet on the occasion of the Anla Navami Festival (Odiya Kartika Masa).
• Raghurajpur Artist Village – It is a craft village within 11km of distance from Puri town. This village is famous for Pattachitra painters and Gotipua dance troupes.
• Pipil – Pipili is famous for designing beautiful Applique handicrafts. It is a 37km distance from Puri town.

Smart city Bhubaneswar (Capital of Odisha)

Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha and 60km distance from Puri town. It is popularly known as the temple city of Odisha.

There are many beautiful places like Shree Lingaraj Temple & Bindu Sagar lake. Odisha State Museum. Nadankanan Zoological Park. Dhauligiri  Baudha Stupa. Khandagiri caves, etc.

How many days are enough to travel to Puri?

Minimum 03 to 04 days is required to visit the above places and enjoy the journey successfully. The following is the day-wise suggestive plan to visit the famous places in Puri and nearer cities.

Visit the Lord Jagannath Temple, Shree Gundicha Temple, Loknath Temple, Sea Beach, Raghurajpur Artist Village, and other temples & Mathas adjacent to Jagannath Temple.

Visited Sun Temple Konark, Enjoy Marine drive and sea beach at Chandrabhaga, Ram Chandi temple on way to Konark, Sakhigopal Temple, Pipili, etc.

Visited Alarnath Temple and Satapada Dolphin sanctuary. Enjoy the boating in Chilika lake.

Visited Temple city Bhubaneswar and Famous Shiv temple Shree Lingaraj, Odisha State museum, etc.

Important Official websites for your reference

1 . Official website of Shree Jagannath Temple Puri.

2. Official website of Puri district administration

3. Official website of Odisha govt. Tourism

Puri is a beautiful heritage city of Odisha. It is famous for Lord Jagannath Temple, Sea beach, Pattachitra painters, Sand Art, and beautiful Applique handicrafts. 3 to 4 days is required to visit famous places in Puri.

The communication and accommodation facility at Puri is very well. I hope this travel guide to Puri will help you to plan your journey successfully in a short period.

Please feel free to contact us at our official mail id-

[email protected]

“Jay Jagannath”  

Pandit Rashmi Ranjan Rath is a Vedic researcher and also recognized by the Lord Jagannath Temple administration, Puri as a “Shree Jagannath Sanskruti Pracharak” in the year 2013. He has visited four Dhams of India for creating Lord Jagannath consciousness Worldwide. He is also the founder of  “ Baidika Brahamana Parisada Odisha ”.

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Pilgrim’s Paradise in Puri – Temples You Need To Visit

• Historical Places
• Travel Tips
• March 14, 2019 in Historical Places , Puri , Travel Tips
• holy places religious places Temples

The names Puri and Jagannath are synonymous. Their history is similar too – both have been plundered and looted – not for religious reasons but their wealth. Puri is a coastal district next to the river Mahanadi along the Bay of Bengal in Odisha. By 12-century AD, Puri was established as an important Hindu pilgrimage site. There are numerous temples in Puri, foremost being the Jagannath Temple. The tourism attracted by Jagannath contributes to nearly 80% of Puri’s economy. The treasury of Jagannath makes it one of the wealthiest temples in the world. The temple priests are descendants of the Gajapati Dynasty. Over 24 festivals are celebrated at Jagannath, most well-known being the RathYatra or Chariot Festival when the trinity idols are carried in three exquisitely decorated chariots through the streets of Puri.

Find Best Hotels In Puri

Top 13 Temples To Visit In Puri

• Jagannath Temple
• PanchaTirtha
• Lokanath Temple
• Vimala Temple
• Varahi Temple
• Sakshigopal or Satyabdi Gopinatha Temple
• Darya Mahavir or Bedi Hanuman Temple
• Kapalamochana Temple
• Gundicha Temple
• Baliharachandi Temple
• Markandeshwar Temple
• Alarnath Mandir
• MausiMaa or Ardhashosini Temple

1. Jagannath Temple

Jagannath Temple is amongst the foremost holy places to visit for followers of Hindu Vaishnava traditions. According to Mahabharata, the construction of this temple was first commissioned by King Indradyumna. Later in the 12-century, the temple was developed under King Anantavarman of the Ganga Dynasty. As per trinity divination – Jagannath, Balarama, and Subhadra- are the presiding deities. The sanctum sanctorum contains their exquisitely carved wooden idols, which are periodically replaced by an exact replica. Surrounded by high fortified walls, this magnificent temple features Rekha Deula architectural style – divided into a sanctum sanctorum, an audience hall, an offerings hall, and a frontal porch. A Nila Chakra (Blue Discus) mounted atop the temple is regarded as a cult symbol for the Jagannath clan. The main entrance to the temple is through the Lion Gate, while the other entrances are the Elephant, Tiger, and Horse Gates. There are numerous other smaller temples and mandapa (porches) all around the complex. The temple’s kitchen, Rosaghara, is one of the world’s biggest. The temple is world-renowned for its annual chariot festival, or car festival, or Ratha Yatra Festival. The three presiding deities are brought out of the temple complex is massive and intricately decorated temple cars and toured through the Bada Danda Street to offer a darśana (view) to the devotees.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 10:00PM

2. Pancha Tirtha

For Hindu devotees, a pilgrimage to Puri is consummated only after taking a holy bath in five sacred places called Pancha Tirtha. Regarded as the starting point, the Markandeya sarovar (tank) is situated beside the famous Markandeshwar Temple. Next, is the well of Rohini Kunda (well), which is considered Narayan’s abode. It is located within the Jagannath Temple complex. A banyan tree next to it, Akshaya Kalpavat, is also worshipped. Next holy spot is called the Sea, or Mahodadhi, located within the Bay of Bengal in the Swargadwar area of Puri Beach . Its grand Samudra aarti is also a major attraction. Indradyumana Tanknear the renowned Gundicha Temple, and Swetaganga sarovar down south of Nilachal, are the other Pancha Tirthas.

3. Lokanath Temple

This 11-century temple is amongst the five famous temples of Puri dedicated to Lord Shiva. As per legend, it was established by Lord Rama.  The complex is built as per Deula architectural style. The main temple is made of marble, while the remaining of sandstone. A Shiva lingam in the sanctum sanctorum is the presiding deity. A natural fountain flows above it, making the lingam remain immersed in water. Before the Shivratri Festival, all the water is ejected and the lingam becomes visible for darshan (sight) to innumerable devotees. In this way, the lingam is clearly visible only once a year. All the offerings -flowers, milk, yoghurt, sandal paste, honey, coconut water, leaves of beetle and bilva- made to the lingam throughout the year decompose in the water, producing a distinctive smell and taste. This mixture is taken as prasad and believed to have healing properties. An idol of Lokanatha inside the Jagannath Temple is symbolic of his role as the guardian deity of the treasures. Lokanatha participates in Jagannath festivals like Shivratri, Sital Sasthi, and Candan Yatra.

Timings: 5:00AM to 9:00PM

4. Vimala Temple

Vimala, or Bimala Temple is a small shrine located within the Jagannath Temple complex next to the sacred Rohini Kunda pond. Dedicated to goddess Vimala, this temple is considered a Shakti Peetha–amongst the holiest Shakti temples in India . Built of sandstone and laterite, it features a Deula style of temple architectural style. Vimala is regarded as the consort of Lord Jagannath, and she is also considered the guardian deity of Jagannath Temple complex. Devotees consider it essential to worship Vimala before praying in the main Jagannath Temple. Any offering to Jagannath is not sanctified as mahaprasad (ultimate offering) until it first offered to Vimala. The temple witnesses huge Durga Puja festival celebrations.

Timings: 5:00AM to 1:00PM, 4:00PM to 11:30 PM

5. Varahi Temple

The 9-century Varahi Deula Temple is famous for the masterpiece idol of its presiding deity, the Goddess Varahi. It is one of the temples in Puri known for its architecture. Her main idol presides in the center of sanctum, with two smaller Varahi statues on both sides. She is seated in lalitasana posture holding a fish in one hand and a kapala (skull) in another, and right foot on a buffalo – her consort. Her strikingly large belly symbolizes she holds the universe in her womb. The temple is situated within a quaint garden in the small village of Chaurasi. The style and shape of this Sakta Temple is different from other medieval temples. Unlike Rekha and Bhadra, it features a Khakhara style from Kalinga Dynasty, and has a semi-cylindrical shape.

Timings: 7:00AM to 10:00AM, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

6. Sakshi gopal or Satyabdi Gopinatha Temple

This medieval temple built in the Kalinga style of temple architecture is dedicated to Lord Gopinatha, a form of Krishna. A couple’s tale of love and hardship culminated into the manifestation of this temple as a stone statue of Lord Gopala, and the couple was appointed its first priests. Earlier called Satyabadi Gopinatha, the temple came to be known as Sakshi gopala, possibly after the Sakshi Gopala idol preserved in the town. It refers to one of the 16 idols of Gods carved from an exotic, imperishable stone by orders of King Vajra, Lord Krishna’s grandson. It is a unique Vishnu temple for its prasada – as the food offerings are made of wheat and not rice. The temple is famous for its annual celebration of Amla Navami Festival, which is associated with the ritual of touching Goddess Radha’s feet.

Timings: 6:00AM to 9:00PM

7. Darya Mahavir or Bedi Hanuman Temple

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Darya Mahavir is a small temple next to the sea. A two-armed Hanuman, with a laddoo (sweet) in the left hand, a gada (mace) in the right hand, is the presiding deity of the temple. The exterior walls of the temple are carved with several deities like Anjana and Lord Ganesha. The temple is also called ‘Bedi Hanuman’, meaning ‘Chained Hanuman’, from the legend that by orders of Lord Jagannath, Hanuman was tied next to the beach as a lesson to be more vigilant when he failed at his duty of preventing sea waters from entering Puri. Panasankranti, Rama Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti are some popular rituals observed in the temple.

Timings: 6:00AM to 6:00PM

8. Kapalamochana Temple

Kapalamochana Temple is amongst the Pancha Pandava or five famous Shiva temples of Puri. According to Hindu belief, worshipping Lord Kapalamochana helps one atone for ‘brahmahatya’ (killing of a Brahmin). The temple interiors have a ten-armed idol of Goddess Shyamakali. The walls are carved with images of gods like Shiva, Vishnu, and Narasimha. A sandstone idol of Ganesha is without his mount mouse – suggesting its antiquity. Manikarnika is a sacred pool located within the temple premises. Kapalamochana is associated with the Chandana Yatra Lord Jagannath Festival.

9. Gundicha Temple

Gundicha temple is significant as the destination of the legendary Rath Yatra festival from Jagannath Temple. For nine days, the temple remains occupied by the trinity idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. A darshan (sacred view) of the idols, while they are in Gundicha, is considered most auspicious – even more than their darshanat Jagannath. But for the rest of the year, the temple remains vacant. The structure sits amidst a garden surrounded by walls. It is made of light-grey sandstone and built in Deula style of Kalinga temple architecture.

Timings: 6:00AM to 3:00PM, 4:00PM to 10:00PM

10. Baliharachandi Temple

This sea-side temple is popular not only as one of the holy places to visit but also a fun place! Situated near the meeting point of the sea and river Bhargavi, the sandy beaches next to the temple make it a perfect scenic spot, especially during sunrise and sunset. As a goddess of water and navigation, the presiding deity of this temple is especially revered amongst the fisherman and boatsman. A form of Goddess Durga, she is worshipped as the eight-armed Baliharachandi. The rituals of the Mahanavami Festival associated with Jagannath Temple are celebrated at Baliharachandi.

Timings: 5:00AM to 12:00PM, 4:00PM to 9:00PM

11. Markandeshwar Temple

This site is known as the spot where sage Markandeya meditated. The Markandeshwar Temple is amongst the five famous Shiva temples in Puri, and amongst the 52 sacred places for Shiva worship. A Shiva lingam is its presiding deity. The Markandeya sarovar next to the temple is a water tank regarded as one of the Panch Tirthas of Puri. The complex has a flight of steps, or ghat, leading to the tank to provide space for bathing. The steps are carved with ancient inscriptions, possibly dating back to the Ganga Dynasty. Many rituals of the Jagannath Temple festivals are celebrated at Markandeshwar with great fervor.

12. Alarnath Mandir

It is believed that Lord Jagannath leaves Puri during the Ashadha month of the Hindu calendar. This period is called ‘anavasara’, meaning ‘a lack of opportunity’. At this time, Jagannath manifests at Alarnath Temple in Brahmagiri, as Alarnath Dev. Lord Alarnath is the presiding deity of this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The four-armed deity idol holds a chakra (wheel) and conch in upper hands, and a lotus and club in lower hands. Chandan Yatra is an annual sandalwood festival celebrated for 21 days at the lake behind the temple.

Timings: 6:00AM to 9:30 PM

13. Mausi Maa or Ardhashosini Temple

Two legends give this temple its two names. One legend states that this place was native of Lord Jagannath’s ‘mausimaa’ – a ‘mother’s sister’ or aunt. Another legend mentions Mausi Maa as the savior of Jagannath’s abode when Puri was flooded. Henceforth named Ardhashosini, this small temple is dedicated to her. During the return journey of the Ratha Yatra of Jagannath Festival, the chariot stops at Mausi Maa Temple and receives her offerings – Jagannath’s favourite- Poda Pitha, a type of baked cake.

In ancient times, depending on the ruling dynasty, Puri was called Purusottama Dham, Purusottama Kshetra, or Purusottama Puri. It was always a pilgrims land – frequented by sages like Bhrigu, Atri, Markandeya, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Adi Shankaracharya, Sri Yukteswar, and Ramanuja. There are several religious sites in Puri, especially many mathas (monastery of Hindu sects). The city is globally renowned as a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. Puri is popular for its crafts of sand art and applique art. It is also amongst the Indian cities chosen by the government for heritage development. Enchanting temples, colorful festivals, and lovely beaches make Puri a perfect getaway destination.

P.s. You might like these related resources:

• The best time to visit Puri and explore its various attractions
• Weekend Getaways from Puri- The Spiritual city of Odisha
• 12 Magnificent Places In and Around Puri That Will Awaken Your Spirituality
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Jagannath Temple

🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to February

⏰ Open Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:30 PM

🎟 Entry Fees: Free

🚶‍♂️ Things To Do: Attend the Rath Yatra festival, Explore temple architecture, Participate in daily rituals

💰 Budget: Minimal (excluding travel and accommodation costs)

🧳 Traveller Types: Family, Solo Travellers, Devotees, History and Culture Enthusiasts

🏷 Known For: One of the Char Dhams, Rath Yatra festival, Intricate temple architecture

📍 Distances: Puri Railway Station - 2 km, Bhubaneswar Airport - 60 km

🚗 Parking: Available

♿ Accessibility: Limited accessibility for differently-abled

📜 Tips: Follow dress code, respect religious customs, photography is prohibited inside the temple

Are you looking for a spiritual and cultural destination that will take you on a journey of faith, history, and art? If yes, then you should visit the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha , which is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites and a part of the Char Dham Yatra. The Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is considered as a form of Lord Vishnu, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, who are worshipped along with Sudarshana Chakra. The temple is famous for its unique history, architecture, rituals, festivals, and facts that make it a wonder of the world.

In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive and updated information about the temple and its attractions for visitors and devotees. Whether you are planning to visit the temple or just curious to know more about it, this guide will help you explore the sacred abode of Lord Jagannath.

How to Reach Jagannath Temple

Jagannath Temple is located in the coastal town of Puri, in the state of Odisha, on the eastern coast of India. Puri is well connected by air, rail, and road from different cities in India. The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, which is about 60 km away from Puri. You can take a bus or a taxi from the airport to reach Puri. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Bhubaneswar or other major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc. to reach Puri railway station, which is about 2 km away from the temple. You can also drive to Puri by taking the National Highway 16 or 316 from Bhubaneswar or other nearby towns.

The address of Jagannath Temple is Grand Road, Puri, Odisha - 752001. The temple is situated in the heart of the town and can be easily reached by walking, cycling, rickshaw, or auto-rickshaw.

History of the Temple

The history of the Jagannath Temple is shrouded in mystery and legend. According to one popular myth, the temple was built by King Indradyumna, who was instructed by Lord Vishnu in a dream to find a log floating in the sea and carve idols out of it. However, when he found the log, he could not find any sculptor who could carve the idols. Then, an old man appeared and offered to do the job, but on one condition: he should be left alone in a closed room for 21 days. The king agreed, but after 14 days, he became impatient and opened the door. He was shocked to see that the idols were incomplete and had no hands or feet. The old man revealed himself as Lord Vishnu and said that this was his will. He told the king to install the idols in the temple as they were and assured him that they would be worshipped by millions of people.

The temple has undergone several changes and renovations over the centuries. It was invaded and plundered by many foreign rulers, such as Kalapahad, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, Firuz Shah Tughlaq, etc. It was also patronized and protected by many local kings and dynasties, such as the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, the Gajapati Dynasty, the Maratha Empire, etc. The temple reached its peak of glory during the reign of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva (1078-1148 CE), who built the present structure of the temple. The temple is also associated with many saints and sages, such as Adi Shankara, Ramanuja, Madhvacharya, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, etc., who visited and propagated their teachings here.

The history of the temple is not only fascinating but also inspiring. It shows how the temple has survived and thrived despite all odds and challenges. It also shows how the temple has been a source of spiritual and cultural unity for millions of people across India and beyond.

Architecture of the Temple

The architecture of the Jagannath Temple is a marvel of engineering and artistry. The temple complex covers an area of 37 acres and is surrounded by a massive wall called Meghanada Pacheri. The wall has four gates facing four directions: Singhadwara (Lion Gate) in the east, Ashwadwara (Horse Gate) in the south, Hathidwara (Elephant Gate) in the west, and Vyaghra Dwara (Tiger Gate) in the north. Each gate is guarded by a pair of stone animals and has a pyramidal structure on top.

The main temple consists of four structures: Deula (sanctum), Mukhashala (frontal porch), Nata Mandir (festival hall), and Bhoga Mandap (offering hall). The Deula houses the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra on a platform called Ratnavedi. The Deula has a towering spire called Vimana that rises to a height of 214 feet. On top of the Vimana is a golden wheel called Neela Chakra (Blue Wheel), which is worshipped as a symbol of Lord Jagannath. The Mukhashala is a pillared hall that connects the Deula with the Nata Mandir. The Nata Mandir is a large hall where cultural programs and dances are performed during festivals. The Bhoga Mandap is a smaller hall where food offerings are made to the deities.

The temple complex also has many other shrines and structures dedicated to various gods and goddesses, such as Lakshmi, Saraswati, Shiva, Ganesha, Hanuman, etc. The temple also has several tanks and wells, such as Narendra Sarovar, Markandeya Sarovar, Rohini Kunda, etc., that are considered sacred and have medicinal properties. The temple also has a library called Jagannath Ballav Matha that contains many ancient manuscripts and books.

The temple is a masterpiece of Kalinga style of architecture, which is characterized by its curvilinear and ornate features. The temple is adorned with exquisite carvings, sculptures, paintings, and motifs that depict various themes and stories from Hindu mythology and culture. The temple is also a living example of the syncretism and diversity of Indian religions, as it incorporates elements from Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Shaktism, Buddhism, Jainism, etc.

Rituals of the Temple

The rituals of the Jagannath Temple are elaborate and intricate. The temple follows a daily schedule of 16 services or nitis that are performed by the priests and servitors or sevakas. The nitis include waking up the deities, bathing them, dressing them, offering them food, putting them to sleep, etc. The nitis are performed according to the lunar calendar and vary according to the season and occasion. The nitis are accompanied by various chants, hymns, songs, and instruments that create a divine atmosphere in the temple.

The most important ritual of the temple is the Mahaprasad or the food offering to the deities. The Mahaprasad consists of 56 types of dishes or chhappan bhog that are prepared in the temple kitchen or Rosa Ghara. The kitchen is considered as the largest in the world and can feed up to 100,000 people in a day. The food is cooked in earthen pots using wood fire and water from a sacred well. The food is first offered to Lord Jagannath, then to Goddess Bimala in the inner sanctum, and then to Lord Shiva in the outer complex. After that, the food is distributed among the devotees as prasad or blessed food. The Mahaprasad is believed to have spiritual and healing powers and is considered as a form of grace from Lord Jagannath.

Festivals of the Temple

The festivals of the Jagannath Temple are colorful and vibrant. The temple celebrates many festivals throughout the year that attract millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Some of the major festivals are:

Rath Yatra: This is the most famous and grand festival of the temple, which is also known as the Chariot Festival or Car Festival. It is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha month (June-July). On this day, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra are taken out of the temple in huge wooden chariots or raths that are pulled by thousands of devotees along a 3 km long route to the Gundicha Temple or Mausi Maa Temple. The chariots are decorated with colorful fabrics, flags, flowers, etc., and have different names and features. The chariot of Lord Jagannath is called Nandighosha or Garudadhwaja, which has 16 wheels and is 45 feet high. The chariot of Balabhadra is called Taladhvaja or Langaladhwaja, which has 14 wheels and is 44 feet high. The chariot of Subhadra is called Devadalana or Padmadhwaja, which has 12 wheels and is 43 feet high. The chariot of Sudarshana Chakra is called Chakradhwaja or Svarnadhwaja, which has 10 wheels and is 42 feet high. The Rath Yatra symbolizes the journey of Lord Jagannath to his birthplace and his aunt’s house. It also represents the universal brotherhood and equality of all people before God.

Snana Yatra: This is another important festival of the temple, which is also known as the Bathing Festival or Devasnan Purnima. It is celebrated on the full moon day of Jyeshtha month (May-June). On this day, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra are brought out of the sanctum and placed on a platform called Snana Mandap or Snana Vedi. They are then bathed with 108 pitchers of water from a sacred well called Suna Kua. The water is mixed with sandalwood paste, turmeric powder, flowers, etc., and poured on the idols by the priests. After the bathing ceremony, the idols are dressed in elephant costumes or Gajanana Vesha or Hati Vesha and offered food and worship. The Snana Yatra marks the birthday of Lord Jagannath and also prepares him for his annual outing during

Rath Yatra: The idols stay at the Gundicha Temple for seven days and then return to the main temple on the ninth day in a similar procession. This return journey is called Bahuda Yatra or Ulto Rath. On the way back, the chariots stop at the Mausi Maa Temple or Ardhasani Temple, where the deities are offered Poda Pitha or baked rice cakes, which is a special delicacy of Odisha. The chariots also face each other at a place called Alarnath Temple or Hera Panchami, where Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Jagannath, comes to meet him and express her anger and jealousy for leaving her behind. She also damages a part of his chariot as a mark of her protest. The Rath Yatra is a spectacle of faith and devotion that draws millions of people from all walks of life.

Snana Yatra: The Rath Yatra. After the Snana Yatra, the idols are kept in a secluded chamber called Anasara Ghara or Anavasara Pindi, where they are believed to fall ill and undergo treatment by a special doctor called Daitapati. During this period, which lasts for 15 days, the idols are not visible to the public and are replaced by three paintings or pata chitras on the main altar. This period is also known as Anasara or Anavasara, which means absence or vacation. After the recovery of the idols, they are adorned with new clothes and ornaments and brought out of the chamber on a day called Netrotsava or Nava Yauvana Darshana, which means eye festival or new youth sight. On this day, the devotees get to see the fresh and rejuvenated forms of the deities after a long gap.

Chandan Yatra: This is another significant festival of the temple, which is also known as the Sandalwood Festival or Gandhalepana Yatra. It is celebrated for 42 days starting from Akshaya Tritiya (April-May) to Jyeshtha Purnima (May-June). During this festival, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra along with other deities such as Madanmohan, Rama, Krishna, etc., are taken out in procession to a nearby tank called Narendra Sarovar or Chandan Sarovar. There they are placed on beautifully decorated boats or chapa and taken around the tank. The idols are smeared with sandalwood paste or chandan and offered various items such as flowers, fruits, sweets, etc. The devotees also participate in this festival by rowing the boats, singing songs, dancing, etc. The Chandan Yatra is a celebration of joy and beauty that marks the onset of summer.

These are some of the major festivals of the Jagannath Temple that showcase its rich and diverse culture and heritage. There are many other festivals that are celebrated in the temple throughout the year, such as Basant Panchami, Shivaratri, Holi, Ram Navami, Janmashtami, Dussehra, Diwali, Kartik Purnima, etc., that add to its charm and glory.

Facts of the Temple

The Jagannath Temple is not only a place of worship but also a place of wonder. There are many facts about the temple that defy logic or science and amaze everyone who visits or hears about it. Some of these facts are:

1. The flag that flies atop the Neela Chakra always flaps in the opposite direction of the wind.

2. The Neela Chakra looks the same from all directions and angles.

3. The shadow of the main temple or Vimana never falls on the ground at any time of the day or year.

4. The sound of the ocean waves can be heard inside the temple premises but not outside it.

5. The food cooked in the temple kitchen never goes waste or falls short, no matter how many people eat it.

6. The food cooked in the temple kitchen does not get spoiled even after several hours or days.

7. The birds or planes do not fly over the temple dome or Vimana.

8. The Sudarshana Chakra on top of the temple can be seen from any corner of Puri town.

9. The idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra have no definite shape or form and are made of wood that never decays.

10. The idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana Chakra are replaced every 12 or 19 years by new ones in a secret ceremony called Nabakalebara or New Body.

11. These are some of the facts that make the Jagannath Temple a mysterious and miraculous place that attracts people from all over the world.

The Jagannath Temple is more than just a temple. It is a symbol of faith, culture, and history that has been standing for centuries and witnessing the changes and events of the world. It is a place where you can experience the divine presence of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, who are known as the Lords of the Universe. It is a place where you can witness the grandeur and beauty of the temple architecture and art. It is a place where you can participate in the rituals and festivals that are full of devotion and joy. While you are here, there's also a plenty of beaches you can visit.

If you are looking for a destination that will enrich your mind, body, and soul, then you should visit the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. It is a place that will make you feel blessed and grateful for being alive. It is a place that will make you want to come back again and again.

We hope that this guide has helped you to know more about the Jagannath Temple and its attractions. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to comment below. We would love to hear from you. And if you liked this article, please share it with your friends and family who might be interested in visiting or knowing more about the Jagannath Temple.

Thank you for reading and happy traveling!

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Shree Jagannath Puri Temple – A Complete Visitor’s Guide

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The city of Puri is home to the Jagannath Temple. The Shree Jagannath Puri Temple represents a significant pilgrimage destination in India and is widely regarded as an authentic Chardham site. Here, people worship Lord Jagannath or Jagannatha, the God to whom the temple is dedicated. The term “ Jagannath ” originated from the Sanskrit language, where “ Jagat ” denotes the world and “ Nath ” refers to The Lord . This yields the literal interpretation of Jagannath. The name Jagannath means “ Lord of the Universes. ” 

Puri is renowned as the cultural centre of Odisha. The Shree Jagannath Puri Temple is a popular destination for pilgrims, drawing large crowds year-round. Meanwhile, the golden sand beaches of the region are a haven for those seeking a serene getaway, attracting thousands of holidaymakers and honeymooners.

The feelings of nearly every Odia are intertwined with this particular place. Emotions echo and reverberate in the “ Jay Jagannath ” chant. So, if you haven’t already, get going! Let’s begin learning more about our beloved Mahaprabhu and His abode!

The Original Char Dhams

India boasts numerous pilgrimage sites that are steeped in the rich mythology of the Hindu religion. These sites are dispersed throughout the country’s expansive territory. The Char Dham Yatra holds a significant position among these. The Char Dham, defined initially by Adi Shankaracharya , a prominent Indian saint, and philosopher, comprises four pilgrimage sites: Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram. Among these, three are Vaishnavite, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, while the fourth one is Shaivite, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Puri, as a part of Char Dham

Jagannath Temple at Puri is one of the four major ‘ Char Dham ‘ pilgrimage destinations honouring Lord Jagannath, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The temple’s primary trio of gods worshipped are Mahaprabhu Jagannath , Badathakura Balabhadra , and the Goddess Subhadra . The Supreme Lord lives in his deity form in Puri, Odisha.

Anyone who receives His darshan achieves freedom from this world of things. One receives the pious credit of visiting all the other holy pilgrimage sites by travelling to Jagannath Puri Dham.

One of the other names for the Puri Jagannath Temple is “ Yamanika Tirtha .” It is said that Lord Jagannath’s presence in Puri has rendered “Yama,” the Hindu God of Death, powerless.

So what’s holding you up?

Plan a trip to Puri as soon as possible and see the majestic Shree Jagannath Puri Temple in all its glory!

Your Journey is Incomplete Unless you have Visited:

Jagannath Puri

Badrinath Dham

Dwaraka Dham

Rameshwaram

History of Puri

Any place in India, religious or non-religious, has deep roots in history. There are always interesting historical facts and tales about a place. The same is true for Puri too!

The Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang’s historical evidence indicates that Puri was formerly called Charitra. Under Chodaganga Deva’s reign, Puri became famous as the home of Lord Purusottama , earning it the new moniker of Purusottama Kshetra.

Purusottama Kshetra acquired the name Chhatar under the Mughal and British suzerainty. The name of Purusottam Kshetra was subsequently altered to Purusottam Puri . The city of Puri is called ‘ Pooree ‘ in British records, subsequently acquiring its current name.

During the early 19th century, the province was partitioned into the Southern and Northern Divisions, with the Mahanadi River as the boundary between them. In the mid-19th century, the regions were merged.

Odisha was established as an independent province in 1936. In 1948, the integration of Khandapara, Daspalla, Ranapur, and Nayagarh feudatory states in Odisha resulted in a new district called Puri.

Administration of Shree Jagannath Puri Temple

The Managing Committee and Administrative Structure of the Shree Jagannatha Temple were upgraded in February 2005 following the enactment of the Shree Jagannatha Temple Amending Act of 2004.

A Revenue Divisional Commissioner, an IAS officer, has been designated as the Chief Administrator. The committee established by the Act currently comprises 18 members. The committee is chaired by Sri Dibyasingha Deb , the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri. The committee’s tenure is three years per the Act.

Geography and Climate of Puri

The city of Puri can be found at coordinates 19.8°N 85.85°E and boasts an average elevation of 0 metres (0 feet). Located on the Bay of Bengal coast, the district of Puri benefits from the refreshing sea breeze that provides respite from the hot and humid summers, making it a more bearable destination than Odisha’s inland areas.

From March through June, the climate in this region tends to be humid, with high levels of moisture in the air. The temperature tends to maintain a moderate level during the months spanning from July to August. Conversely, the period from October to January is typically regarded as the winter season.

But whatever the season, you will always have a great time visiting this place, having a darshan of the deities and enjoying the Puri Golden Beach.

Connection of Lord Jagannath with Puri

How did Mahaprabhu Jagannath and his siblings get associated with Puri? Well, we got the tale for you right here!

Read on to know the mysterious ways of the Lord and His will.

Over the course of centuries, a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and historical accounts has coalesced into a grand and intricate cultural tradition centered around the figure of Lord Jagannath. The Skanda Purana (an ancient Hindu text containing numerous mythological sections) recounts a fascinating story behind the root of Lord Jagannath, the Lord of the universe.

According to legendary sources, the Lord was once revered by the Sabakas , a tribal group known as the Daitas . These individuals, who are believed to be of tribal descent, continue to hold a significant role in the various ceremonies and rituals dedicated to Lord Jagannath at the revered Shree Jagannath Puri Temple.

The Tale of Nila Madhaba and Lord Jagannath

In ancient times, there existed a king by the name of Indradyumna . He was renowned for his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu. He harboured an ardent desire to behold the divine form of the deity.

On a certain day, a Brahmin went to the King’s court. He conveyed that Lord Vishnu had taken on the form of Lord Nila Madhava at a distant location.

Then, the King dispatched various priests to embark on a quest and locate the divine Lord Nila Madhava. Every attempt to succeed proved futile, save for the one made by a priest who went by the name of Vidyapati.

As Vidyapati embarked on his quest to locate The Lord Nila Madhava, he chanced upon the home of a prominent local chief Vishwavasu .

Here, he found valuable information regarding the precise whereabouts of the revered deity. 

Despite Vidyapati’s repeated requests, Vishwavasu never led him to Lord Madhava’s place of worship.

Undeterred, Vidyapati continued to dwell in the same village, ultimately taking Lalita, Visvavasu’s daughter, as his wife. Soon after his wedding, he asked his new father-in-law Vishwavasu to lead him to God.

After considerable convincing, his father-in-law finally led him to the Lord’s dwelling. Vidyapati went to where Lord Nila Madhava lived while blindfolded. Still, he was smart enough to sprinkle some mustard seeds all the way to the holy place to mark the route. And when he beheld the divine form of the Lord, he was utterly captivated and left in awe.

After several days, the contented Vidyapati returned to King Indradyumna and recounted the entire tale. Overwhelmed with joy, the King promptly implored Vidyapati to lead him to the abode of the Lord. However, when they arrived, the Lord was nowhere to be seen.

What happened then?

The King, consumed by devastation, returned to his kingdom. Subsequently, a celestial voice spoke to him, saying, “O King, do not despair over your failure to behold me.” Going to Puri Beach, you will see a piece of wood floating in the water. Get the log, carve my idol out of it, then build me a temple.

The King procured the sturdy wooden log and summoned the most skilled architects and sculptors in the land.

Despite their expertise, none could fashion an idol from the log, as none knew of the Lord’s appearance. Despite their best efforts, none of their tools could penetrate the solid wooden log.

After a few days, Vishvakarma , the great Architect of Gods, comes to King Indradyumna dressed as an artist and promises to make the Lord’s images.

However, he insisted on being left alone to finish the idols for at least 21 days. With those words, he shut the door to his chamber and set to work on the wooden block.

You know where this story is heading, right?

The sculptor, Vishwakarma, takes the giant monolithic log and shuts the door. Days pass. After 15 days, there was no sound audible from the chamber. This made the queen restless.

The queen begged the King to open the chamber, terrified that the sculptor was no more.

Who did they see when they opened the doors?

But to their surprise, they found three unfinished wooden sculptures in the room, and no sculptor in the room. And from that point forward, people only regard the unfinished idols as Lord Jagannath and his siblings and adore them!

What do the no limbs and round eyes signify for the people?

As mentioned above, the mythology is thought to be the basis for the fact that the trinity’s idols lack limbs and are incomplete. The deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra continue to be adored in that appearance, as the unfinished state of their idols is believed to convey a sense of wholeness and perfection.

The Hands are half-made, and it is believed that God warmly embraces anybody who comes in their direction with faith in him. It is unknown how far their vision extends because their eyes are rounded. They are believed to be able to observe the entire universe with those eyes.

History of Puri Jagannath Temple

Who built the Jagannath temple?

The temple’s main shrine was constructed by Anantavarman of the Chodaganga dynasty in the eleventh century, making it one of the oldest Hindu temples. However, it is said that the shrine’s gods are far older and are connected to King Indrayumna, the famous Satya-yuga king and Lord Ram’s nephew.

Architecture of Jagannath Mandir

The primary temple in Puri is situated on a large elevated platform, considered the foundation of a hill called Nilagiri or Blue Hill. This platform is encircled by approximately 30 additional temples devoted to diverse deities of the Hindu pantheon. The kitchen at the Puri temple elicits a sense of awe in individuals from any part of the world who become aware of it.

Within the temple’s walls lie exquisite examples of Odishan architecture and sculpture. Two rectangular walls encircle the temple. Meghanada Pacheri forms the outer enclosure, while the inner enclosure is known as Kuruma Bedha. 

The Shree Jagannath Puri Temple boasts a flawless pancha-ratha plan. The temple stands as a prime exemplar of the Kalinga style in its entirety, boasting the presence of all four indispensable components. 

• The Vimana or the Sanctum Sanctorum
• The Jagamohana or the Audience Hall
• The Nata Mandapa or the Dancing Hall
• The Bhoga Mandapa or the Hall of offering

There are 4 entrance gates of Puri Jagannath Temple:

• The Eastern Simha Dwara (Lion Gate) – Represents Dharma (Piety)
• The Western Vyaghra Dwara (The Tiger Gate) – Represents Vairagya (Renunciation)
• The Northern Hasti Dwara (Elephant Gate) – Represents Aishwarya (Material Opulence)
• The Southern Ashwa Dwara (Horse Gate) – Represents Jnana (Knowledge)

The magnificent Aruna Stambha, a towering pillar that reaches a height of approximately 11 metres, is situated just outside the premises and is a sight not to be missed! The pillar, which was once a part of the Sun Temple in Konark, symbolises the charioteer of the Sun God. In the 18th century, the temple was abandoned and faced the threat of invasion. As a result, it was relocated to a safer location to ensure its preservation.

Deities at Shree Jagannath Puri Temple

All three Gods are crafted from the wood of the neem tree (Melia Azadirachta Indica). The deities Jagannatha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra each have a distinct colour associated with them. These colours are black, white, and yellow, respectively.

The gods have been given a wide range of interpretations by various religious groups and philosophical strands. According to social anthropologists, the three colours are believed to symbolise the three distinct races of humanity: Negroids, Europeans, and Mongoloids.

The circular shape of Lord Jagannath’s eyes contrasts with the oval shape of the eyes of Devi Subhadra and Lord Balabhadra. The countenances of the divine trio are distinct in their features.

Lord Balabhadra’s head bears a scalloped appearance with a semi-circular lobe that resembles the hood of a serpent. Maa Subhadra’s head, on the other hand, is reminiscent of a tiara, while Lord Jagannath’s head is marked by a straight line.

But the universal truth is, no one can explain why it is that the deities with big heads, no ears, no proper hands, and no legs are a beacon of hope to the devotees all around the world.

A glimpse of those Chakanayana (Big circular round eyes of Jaga) mesmerise everyone!

In accordance with the phases of the moon, the Divinities are adorned in various attires, of which 21 hold notable historical significance. All aspects pertaining to Lord Jagannath are characterised by a sense of grandeur and greatness, it is “ Bada “.

People call Lord Jagannth as “ Bada Thakura ”. The temple is commonly referred to as “ Bada Deula ”. The road that runs in front of the temple is “ Bada Danda ”.

Rituals at Shree Jagannath Puri Temple

The Temple’s rituals and systems have remained largely unaltered since its construction. A distinctive form of worship is observed here for the Lord of the Universe.

He and his siblings receive familial love and care. Every morning, they are awakened by music and a religious ritual known as arati . They are required to change their attire and perform oral hygiene.

The individuals undergo bathing and dressing procedures before the morning darshan. Then they change attire before partaking in a light breakfast called Gopal Ballabh , which typically includes fruits, curd, and green coconut.

At 10 am, a second breakfast known as Raj Bhoga is served, followed by Betel nuts to facilitate digestion. At 1 pm, the deities partake in an elaborate lunch known as Madhyana Dhupa .

In 1910, the mid-day meal comprised 435 dishes. A divine feast indeed!

Every big meal needs to be followed by a short nap, and the Gods are no different. The deities are placed on cots within the sanctum sanctorum to rest undisturbed.

At 6 pm, the deities are awakened for Sandhya Dhupa and darshan . Subsequently, they attire themselves for the Chandana Lagi ritual, which involves the administration of a refreshing sandalwood paste, and prepare for the evening. The deities partake in a late evening meal known as Badasinghar Bhoga at 10:30 pm. The cots are replaced with more comfortable couches before bedtime. 

The temple servitor, known as a sevak, uses a veena to accompany a recitation of the Gita Govinda , a 12th-century poem by Jayadeva , in order to lull the deities to sleep. The divine siblings, including the Lord of the Universe, are in a peaceful slumber until the following day. What a joy when you know that he spends His day just like any other living being, right?

What is Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival)

Brace yourselves as we proceed to the most exciting part of Shree Jagannath Puri Temple, “Rath Yatra”! The Rathyatra Puri, also referred to as the Chariot Festival, is a significant event at the Jagannath temple. This festival begins on Ashada Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi. It concludes on Ashada Shukla Paksha Dasami Tithi, per the Shri Mandir Panji.

After a lengthy stay of 15 days in the home of Anasar (15 days reclusion period of the deities due to fever by bathing on Snana Purnima), the world-famous Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra lasts for 9 days. During the annual Rath Yatra festival, devotees from all over the world gather to get the divine darshan of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Sister Subhadra, and the celestial Wheel Sudarshan as they ride in their chariots along the Bada Danda.

Akshaya Tritiya is a significant occasion where the customary Ratha Anukula ritual (initiation ceremony for chariot construction) is performed to mark the commencement of chariot construction.

Snana Purnima

The three deities are ceremonially bathed on the auspicious day of Snana Purnima or Jyestha Purnima . During the annual ceremony, Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, Sudarshana, and Madana-Mohana are escorted to the Snana Bedi, where they are bathed with 108 pots of holy water drawn from a well on the north side of the temple.

After the bathing ceremony, it is believed that the deities undergo a period of fever and then withdraw to their private chambers. They remain out of sight for a period of fifteen days. The period is called Anasara.

Who can you witness and pray to when the Lords are in Anasar

The devotees can witness three paintings hung on the bamboo screen for the duration of these fifteen days (Ashadha Krishna Paksha). People also call it Pati Diyan or Anasara Pati .

In addition to the three paintings, metal statues of Rama, Dola Govinda, and Narasimha are positioned in front of Balabadhra, Bhudevi and Sridevi in front of Subhadra, and Krishna and Madanamohana in front of Jagannatha. The set of artworks comprising 3 paintings and 7 metal pictures is collectively known as Dashavatara Murti or Dashavatara Thakura. Every ceremony typically carried out in the Sanctum Sanctorum is here. During the Anasara period, worshippers could have a darshan of these deities.

What are the three Raths

Obviously, you must be longing to know about the Chariots or Rathas on which the deities embark for this splendid & magnificent journey! Three grand and ornately adorned Chariots or Rathas are pulled from the Shree Jagannath Mandir to the Gundicha temple during the annual Ratha Yatra. These Chariots are known by the following names:

(Lord Balabhadra’s Chariot)

Dwarpadalana

( Maa Subhadra’s chariot)

( Lord Jagannatha’s Chariot)

What happens on the day of the Rath Yatra

There are a lot of pre and post-yatra rituals and ceremonies that take place on the occasion of Rath Yatra.

Now, let us briefly examine each one of them.

Devotees glimpse the Lord in His youthful form after fifteen days of seclusion “ Anasara “. On the second day of Ashadha Shukla tithi, following the morning rituals of the deities, including Mangala Alati, Abakash, Ballabha, and Khechedi bhoga, the Mangalarpana ritual takes place. The four deities participate in a ceremonial procession known as “ Pahandi ” and subsequently sequentially embark on the sacred chariots, accompanied by other gods.

Chera Panhara

The Chera Panhara ritual takes place once the deities board the chariots. The Gajapati Maharaja of Puri cleans the chariot with a gold-handled broom while sprinkling perfumed water and sandalwood powder.

The Yatra on Bada Danda

The Gods then leave the Shri Mandira and head for Gundicha . The temple is located two miles northeast of the Jagannatha Temple. Therefore, the festival is also referred to as Gundicha Jatra .

Lakhs and thousands of devotees aggressively pull the enormous chariots toward the Gundicha temple while blowing trumpets, banging drums, beating cymbals and dancing in front of the chariots. Millions of devotees gather at Bada Danda to witness this event. Artists and performers present their art in front of the chariots as an act of devotion to the Lord.

Devotees engage in a large-scale Sankirtana ceremony in the presence of the Ratha. The devotees’ fervour is driven by their desire to catch a glimpse of their beloved deity, Jaga Kalia (the Dusky Jaga), Chaka Dola (the Round-Eyed one), and Bada Thakura (Great God).

The chariots represent Sandhini Shakti, and their mere touch is believed to bestow the compassion of Lord Shree Jagannatha upon devotees. The verse in question is as follows:

“Ratha tu vamanam drustva punarjanma na vidyate”

The three Rathas in all their glory, among a sea of devotees and chants of the Daitas, pulled down on the Badadanda…you just cannot forget this view! This is one majestic sight to behold! One of the best times to visit Puri is during the Rath Yatra. If you do proper planning and arrangements, you can see this once-in-a-year phenomenon with your own eyes.

Baladeva’s chariot, Taladhwaja, is positioned ahead, while Subhadra Devi’s chariot follows behind. The Nandighosha Ratha, dedicated to Lord Jagannatha, is the final one to arrive. Thus, the deities arrive at the Gundicha temple. They remain there for a week and then return to Shri Mandira during Bahuda Jatra .

What happens when they reach the Gundicha Temple

The chariots of the gods remain in front of the Gundicha temple. Subsequently, bathing and additional ceremonial practices are carried out, and the deities repose for the night, bedecked in Dashavatar costumes. The deities proceed to the Gundicha Temple the following evening, accompanied by Goti Pahandi and Bije , and assume their designated positions.

Hera Panchami is a significant festival observed on the fifth day of the Ratha Yatra. On the sixth day following the Hera Panchami rituals, the Chariots pivot towards the south, also called Dakshina Moda.

Bahuda Yatra

The procession of deities from Gundicha temple to Shree Jagannath Puri Temple on the 9th day is called Bahuda Yatra. Bahuda yatra is observed on Asadha Shukla Dashami with specific rituals.

Poda Pitha (Odia delicacy made up of rice, urad dal, coconut, jaggery and nuts), a special type of pitha (type of homemade cakes or pancakes, popular in regions like Odisha, West Bengal & Assam), is presented to the deities at Mausi Maa Mandira during the return journey to Shri Mandira. The Laxminarayan Bheta ritual is also conducted during the Bahuda Yatra.

This ritual takes place on Asadha Shukla Paksha Ekadasi Tithi after Madhyanna Dhupa (mid-day bhoga). During the Suna Besha of Mahaprabhu, the deities are adorned with gold ornaments while on chariots.

The Adharpana ritual is conducted on Ashadha Shukla Dwadashi , following the Suna Besha. Nine earthen pitchers filled with drinks were placed adjacent to the lips of the three deities. Immediately after that, the Daitapatis and Sevaks crash and spill the pitchers on the Rathas.

During Rath Yatra, many ghosts and spirits are believed to follow the Lords in anticipation of consuming the holy drink to achieve salvation. 

Niladri Bije

The occasion of Niladri Bije happens on Asadha Trayodashi when the deities are reinstated at the Ratna Bedi (the pedestal in the main temple where the 4 idols sit facing towards the east). As a means of gaining entrance to the temple, Lord Jagannath presents Goddess Laxmi with Rasagullas.

Rath Jatra celebration in different parts of the world

Since 1968, the ISKCON Hare Krishna movement has brought the Ratha Yatra festival to major cities worldwide, making it a familiar sight to many. The celebration of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra spans across continents. It is observed in 192 countries, equivalent to the total number of member states in the United Nations.

Thanks to the benevolence of Lord Jagannath, the annual Ratha Yatra is now celebrated in over 170 cities worldwide , including Moscow, New York, London, Rome, Zürich, Kolkata, Mumbai, Karachi, Berlin, and numerous others.

Nabakalebara and its significance

The distinctiveness of Lord Jagannatha of Puri is attributed to His unique physical appearance and the rituals of worship associated with Him. The ceremony is rooted in the belief that the same eternal law governing the human body’s perishable nature and the soul’s enduring nature also applies to Lord Jagannatha.

‘ Nabakalebara ‘ combines two Odia words, ‘ Naba ‘, which translates to ‘ new ‘ and ‘ Kalebara ‘, which means ‘ body ‘.

The Jagannatha Temple in Puri is the site of a unique and infrequent ceremony during Joda Asadha , also known as the intercalary month of Asadha.

The highly anticipated ceremony occurs at intervals of 8, 12, or 19 years , as determined by the astrologer’s calculations. This event spans three to four months, commencing in either March or April and concluding in July.

The ceremonial proceedings typically commence following Ram Navami, during the Chaitra Sukla Dasami, the 10th day of the bright full moon in the Odia month of Baisakh.

Na jāyate mriyate vā kadāchin nāyaṁ bhūtvā bhavitā

vā na bhūyaḥ

Ajo nityaḥ śhāśhvato yaṁ purāṇo na hanyate hanyamāne śharīre

According to the sloka, the soul is eternal and does not undergo birth or death. It is believed that once in existence, the soul continues to exist indefinitely without any cessation. The soul is considered an eternal, ageless, and immortal entity not subject to birth or death. According to the belief, it is said that the essence of a being is not annihilated even after the physical body ceases to exist.

Puri Beach or Sea Beach at Puri

Now let’s move on to the next best tourist destination in Puri besides the Shree Jagannath Temple, the Puri sea beach! In addition to the renowned Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach stands out as a significant tourist destination. The beach is widely regarded as one of the safest in the country, providing beachgoers ample opportunities to enjoy a relaxing swim in the sea.

You can have a great time bathing in the cool waters of the Bay of Bengal. Also, bathing in the Bay of Bengal at Puri’s sea beach is regarded as one of the most important rituals of the char dham Yatra. Moreover, visiting the Puri beach at night is a mesmerising experience!  

How far is the beach from?

(From Jagannath Temple)

(From Bus stand – VIP Road)

(From Railway Station)

Golden Beach Puri

The beautiful town of Puri boasts a stunning 8-kilometre-long stretch of pristine sea beach. The Golden Beach stretches along the Puri Sea for an idyllic 870 metres , from Gandhi Park to the back of the Mayfair Hotel. This golden beach is enclosed on both ends with proper fencing to ensure that only ticket-holding visitors get entry. Visitors can purchase tickets at the entrance counter.

Puri’s golden beach has the esteemed “ Blue Flag ” from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-profit and non-governmental organisation based in Copenhagen, Denmark. This recognition is a testament to the beach’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Men’s and women’s restrooms, changing rooms, drinking water dispensers, lifeguards, and seating areas are just some amenities tourists can enjoy. The primary draw for children is a compact play area. The Puri Golden Beach is a perfect destination for those seeking to enjoy quality time with their family & loved ones and watch the sunrise and sunset.

Visitors must pay an entry fee of Rs 20 for three hours and Rs 50 or 100 for the entire day, per the authority’s regulations. Children under the age of 10 are granted complimentary admission.

One noteworthy beach feature is the acclaimed sand artist Padma Shri Sudarshan Pattnaik , who showcases his exceptional sand art at a designated beach area.

Must do activities at Puri Golden Beach

This beach is a popular tourist place in Puri that attracts many vacationers daily. It is bustling with activity from dawn to dusk and is frequented by individuals of all ages. Visiting the Golden Beach Puri market, open around the clock, is also fun. People can take home artefacts and gifts like shell jewels, art, idols, etc.

There’s always a lot of action on the beach because of the huge market where you can buy almost everything. You can reach Golden Beach from the Jagannath temple using local transport facilities like Rickshaws, autos, taxis etc. The fare is very minimal, and the ride is joyous!

Golden Beach caters to a wide range of interests, from those seeking a serene and calming atmosphere to those searching for thrilling outdoor activities. With various activities ranging from speed boats, surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, water scooters, parasailing, and even the option to simply relax and enjoy a peaceful evening on the beach, the possibilities for entertainment and leisure are limitless.

Water Sports price activity list

• ATV – 300/- self-drive
• Jetski – 500/person for one round
• Speedboat – 1000/- to 1200/- for 6 persons
• Parasailing – Single – 1500/-
• 2 persons – 2500/-

Famous Food in Puri

Puri’s local cuisine reflects the town’s diverse and charming character, offering a range of sweet and savoury flavours to tantalise the taste buds. At Puri, one can indulge in an elaborate affair of Mandir Mahaprasad and local cuisine that is truly satisfying. The city takes great care to offer a unique Odia twist to its cuisine, ensuring that all travellers have a memorable culinary experience.

Let us look at the various types of bhoga, local foods and cuisines that one can indulge in Puri!

Ananda Bajar – Abhada

Mahaprasad refers to the assortment of 56 delectable food items traditionally offered to Lord Jagannath. The culinary delights are prepared in a unique kitchen within the temple premises. The kitchen boasts an impressive capacity to prepare meals for hundreds of thousands of devotees who visit the temple.

The Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath is widely regarded as a spiritual sustenance that fortifies the soul, cleanses the sacraments, and prepares the departing soul for its ascent!

Anand Bazar is a bustling marketplace located within the premises of the revered Shree Jagannath Puri Temple. Here, devotees can purchase the sacred Mahaprasad as a divine offering to the deity.

Two types of Mahaprasad are available, namely, Sankudi Mahaprasad and Sukhila Mahaprasad . Both types are available at Ananda Bazaar, located within the Grand Temple. In addition to Sankudi and Sukhila Mahaprasad, there is another variety of dry Mahaprasad known as Nirmalya or Kaibalya .

You cannot miss the experience of tasting Mahaprasad. It’s heaven!

Tanka Torani

Tanka Torani is a dish that leaves a lasting impression on the taste buds of those who visit the Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri. The pleasure fest is undoubtedly a favourite among locals and tourists, and its appeal is unquenchable with just a single glass. 

Tanka Torani is a popular beverage available in earthenware vessels within the Shree Jagannath Puri Temple premises.

It is also available in small stalls outside the temple, providing a refreshing respite for devotees waiting in lengthy queues. It is a fermented rice drink made with curd, condiments, and spices.

Tanka Torani is one of those dishes that, once experienced, is impossible to forget!

Khaja holds immense significance as it forms an essential component of the Mahaprasad offered to the revered trio of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Suvadra. The Lord and his favourite delicacy are highly regarded across the city. You can easily spot this popular sweet in various locations, including the Grand Road or Bada Danda, before the revered Shree Jagannath Puri Temple .

Additionally, you can find it in the lively shopping districts near the renowned Swargadwara.

Malpua of Puri is a delectable delicacy served as a morning offering to Lord Jagannath at the Puri Temple. This sweet treat is renowned for its unique preparation method, which sets it apart from other regional variations across India.

The Shree Jagannath Puri temple offers a delectable local sweet dish called Ukhuda as a part of the bhoga for Lord Jagannath. This delectable dish features puffed rice that has been fried to perfection and sweetened with the use of jaggery.

Chenna Poda

This delectable sweet dish, Lord Jagannath’s favourite, is traditionally prepared for festivals and requires several hours of cooking. 

Rasabali, a delectable dessert hailing from the Oriya cuisine and commonly savoured in Puri, features farmer’s cheese that has been deep-fried to a rich, reddish hue.

Sara papudi

One of the divine dishes served at the Shree Jagannath Puri Temple is called Sara papudi. Sara papudi is a dessert that is renowned for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and is typically made using thick creams. In Odia, “sara” means “cream,” which is where the dish gets its name. This dessert is also available for purchase at the local markets of Puri.

Seafood near Puri sea beach

Puri’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with seafood being a prominent feature.

Marine Drive, a scenic road that runs parallel to the beach from Penthakata to Swargadwara, is home to a plethora of street stalls and small roadside eateries.

These charming establishments offer a delectable array of authentic seafood dishes made from fresh prawns, crabs, and various types of fish. Puri also boasts diverse dining options, ranging from upscale hotel restaurants to popular fast-food chains.

The diverse range of restaurants will tantalise your taste buds with their mouth-watering dishes.

Must buy items in Puri

• Pattachitra Paintings (traditional paintings on cloth or canvas)
• Sea Shell Crafts (jewelry, home decor, and showpieces)
• Appliqué Work – Chandua (wall hangings, bedspreads)
• Puri Sand Art Souvenirs
• Palm Leaf Manuscripts
• Odisha Handloom Sarees
• Palm Leaf Paintings
• Stone Carvings (statues, decorative items, and architectural elements)
• Canopies, awnings, stone bowls and plates
• Sandalwood Products (incense sticks, carved figurines, perfumes, and essential oils)

Incredible and mysterious facts about Puri Jagannath Mandir

• It has been observed that the flag situated atop the temple flutters in a direction that is contrary to the direction of the breeze.
• No matter where one stands in Puri, the Sudarshana Chakra atop the temple appears constantly oriented towards the observer.
• Coastal regions typically experience a consistent pattern of sea-to-land breezes during the day, followed by land-to-sea breezes in the evening. The situation with Puri, though, is the opposite.
• Regardless of the time of day, the main dome of Jagannath Mandir Puri casts no visible shadow. Perhaps it was a remarkable architectural achievement or a manifestation of divine will.
• Cooking is done in exactly seven pots stacked on each other and heated with firewood. Miraculously, the pot on top is cooked first, and the remaining pots follow suit!
• Upon entering the temple through the Singha Dwara entrance, one may notice a striking absence of sound from the ocean after just one step. However, upon exiting, the sound is distinctly audible. The phenomenon is particularly noticeable during the evening hours.

Puri Heritage corridor/Shree Mandir Parikrama Prakalpa

The Shree Mandira Parikrama is a planned 75-metre corridor that will encircle the revered Shree Jagannath Puri Temple. Also known as the Shree Jagannatha Heritage Corridor , this is a part of the larger umbrella project to revitalise the temple’s vicinity.

• The major aim of this initiative is to clear the area surrounding the Meghanada Pacheri (the outer wall of the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri) so that tourists & pilgrims can walk freely and safely. 
• This will give devotees and pilgrims a clear and uninterrupted view of the Temple, Neelchakra, and Meghanada Pacheri, enhancing their overall spiritual experience.
• In addition to its spiritual significance, the Shree Mandira Parikrama will also fulfil the practical needs of pilgrims by providing necessary amenities.
• Furthermore, it will enhance the safety and security measures of the temple and its devotees.

Upcoming ABADHA projects planned by Odisha Govt in Puri

As a part of its ongoing efforts to elevate Puri into a world-class heritage city, the state government of Odisha has announced implementing six additional projects under the Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture or the ABADHA scheme. These projects aim to enhance the city’s infrastructure and further its development.

In the year 2023, the Chief Minister of Odisha has given the green light to several projects as part of the ABADHA scheme. These include the development of the heritage security zone, the Shree Setu project, the Musa River revival plan, the Jagannath Ballav pilgrim Centre, housing projects, the Puri Lake development project, the upgradation of Raghunandan Library, the Acharya Harihar Square redevelopment project, the Atharnala heritage project, the Matha Development Initiative, and the development of heritage lakes.

How to Reach Puri

Bhubaneswar to Puri distance is approximately 60 kilometres along the national highway. People can access Puri from major and minor cities conveniently through scheduled bus services. For example, if you plan a trip from Kolkata to Puri, you can do so by road! There are a lot of buses from Kolkata to Puri. The distance between Puri & Kolkata by bus is roughly 515 kilometres.

Puri serves as a railway terminus on the East Coast Railway. Direct express and superfast train services are from various destinations such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Okha, Ahmedabad, Tirupati, and others to Puri. Several significant trains include Kolkata (Howrah), Puri Howrah Express, Jagannath Express, Purushottam Express, and others.

In addition, there are special trains available if you want to schedule your travel during Rath Yatra. These trains allow people to reserve their seats with less time to the big occasion. We recommend that you monitor the announcement for updates.

Howrah to Puri Vande Bharat Express

The 22895/22896 Vande Bharat Express will shorten your trip from Kolkata to Jagannath Dham Puri by over seven hours, covering the 500 km between Howrah and Puri in only 6.5 hours. 

This express will operate on six of the seven days of the week, except for Thursdays. A ticket on the Vande Bharat Express from Howrah to Puri in an air-conditioned chair car costs Rs 1,265. In contrast, an executive chair car ticket costs Rs 2,130. The 22895 Vande Bharat train will depart Howrah at 6.10 am and reach Puri at 12.35 pm. In the return direction, the 22896 Vande Bharat will depart Puri at 1.50 pm and arrive at Howrah at 8.30 pm.

The nearest airport to Jagannath Puri is in Bhubaneswar, which is around 50 to 60 km away. Passengers can procure a taxi or intercity bus service from the airport to Puri.

Local transport in Puri

There are many transport options from the railway station, bus stop, or vehicle stand of Puri to Jagannath Mandir, including cycle-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, city buses (popularly called Mo Bus) and rented motorbikes. When it comes to affordable transportation, cycle rickshaws are a top choice. Temple buses are also plying up and down between the vehicle stand and Mandira.

What all are allowed into Puri Mandir? Where to keep your belongings

• The Temple has a strict policy that only individuals of the Hindu faith can enter and do the Jagannath darshan Puri.
• If you require police assistance, kindly contact the Temple Outpost at Lion’s Gate.
• Additionally, visitors cannot bring personal belongings such as mobile phones, shoes, cameras, leather articles, umbrellas, radios, intoxicants, arms, and ammunition inside the temple premises.
• It is important to note that visitors also cannot bring outside food materials into the Temple.
• People cannot smoke within the Temple premises, under any circumstances.
• It is important to maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the Temple premises by refraining from any activities that may cause pollution or damage. Additionally, visitors cannot touch any idols or deities inside the Temple as a sign of respect and reverence.
• There is a convenient facility where individuals may securely deposit their belongings for safekeeping near the primary entrance.

Temples to Visit near by Puri

Ramachandi Temple

One of the most notable temples of Puri is the Ramchandi Temple, situated near Ramchandi Beach. Apart from the temple, this is also one of the popular tourist places in Puri. The distance between Puri and Maa Ramchandi temple is approx 38 km.

Lokanath Temple

The Lokanath Temple is a revered 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the five renowned temples in Puri that are devoted to the deity. The distance between Puri and Lokanath temple is approx 1.7 km.

Vimala Temple

The Vimala Temple is located in the southern region of the inner ring of the Jagannath Temple. It is positioned on the western corner of the Jagannath Tower and is adjacent to the revered Rohini Kunda pond.

Gundicha Temple

The Gundicha Temple is a renowned mandir located approximately 2.6 km from the Shree Jagannath Puri temple. This is the place where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra take up their annual residence in separate chariots during the Car Festival or Rathyatra.

Alarnath Mandir

The deity Lord Vishnu is revered as Alarnath and is depicted with four hands holding a conch shell, disc, club, and lotus in the Lord Alarnath temple situated in Brahmagiri, approximately 25 kilometres from Puri.

Markandeshwar Temple

The Markandeshwar temple is located at a distance of approx 700 m from Jagannath temple, is among the top five most notable Puri tour places and is also recognised as one of the 52 sacred sites for the worship of Lord Shiva.

Mausima Temple

The sacred town of Puri, situated in the heart of Grand Road, approx 2.1 km from Puri Jagannath Mandir, is home to a revered temple dedicated to Mausi Maa. This temple is believed to be associated with the maternal aunt of Lord Jagannath’s mother.

Sakshi Gopal Temple

The temple is dedicated to worshipping Lord Krishna, Radha, the beloved companion of Lord Krishna in Hindu mythology, is positioned to his left. The temple is approx 18.5 km away from the Jagannath Temple, Puri.

Astachandi Temple

The Astachandi Temple, situated at the entrance of Puri Town in Kumbharpada.  Situated midway between Bhubaneshwar and Puri, the temple can be found on the right-hand side of Atharnala Bridge in Puri.

Golden Triangle of Odisha

The Golden Triangle of Odisha, comprising Puri, Konark, and Bhubaneswar , is a highly sought-after family holiday destination that caters to the diverse interests of all members.

The distance from Bhubaneswar to Puri and vice versa is approx 60 km . The distance from Puri to Konark and vice versa is approx 33 km .

The Golden Triangle boasts a rich historical heritage, stunning temple architecture, vibrant living temples, golden sand beaches, and breathtaking natural scenery. These are just a few highlights that make this destination a must-visit for travellers seeking a truly unforgettable experience.

Undoubtedly, Odisha is considered one of the finest family holiday destinations.

Puri boasts a plethora of attractions that cater to both family vacationers and spiritual seekers. From breathtaking pilgrimage sites to scenic spots, this charming city has no shortage of places to explore. The city has many ancient temples, stunning beaches, significant historical sites, and charming cultural villages and towns. Puri offers a distinctive blend of spiritual and tourist attractions.

So the next time you want to go for a vacation, visit Puri and soak in all the goodness & spirituality that the city offers!

Till then, Jay Jagannath 

About the Author

Saswata Subhadarsini

A voracious reader and enthusiastic writer, I have a knack for concocting a plethora of creative write-ups. I'm a trend-savvy researcher, always on the hunt for inspiration to create unique and captivating content. I fancy myself a genre chameleon, flitting from intellectually stimulating pieces to captivating works of fiction. Whenever not weaving my thoughts into words, I indulge in my love of painting, cooking, dancing and some good old Netflix binge!

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2 thoughts on “ shree jagannath puri temple – a complete visitor’s guide ”.

Very nicely described. Rich content , all sort of informations starting from mythology, spiritualism to logistics on lord Jagannath and Puri.Great work.

Beautiful piece on the Lord Jagannath! Loved the lucid way of expressing used by the author.

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Sri Jagannath Puri Temple

Label : Top Attraction

Tags : Temple

Timings : All days of the week : 5.30 AM to 10 PM, Ideally visited before 10 AM

Time Required : 30 minutes to 1 hour

Entry Fee : Free

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Sri Jagannath Puri Temple, Puri Overview

Located in the sacred town of Puri, the Jagannath Temple or the pride of India was built in the 11th century by King Indradyumna. This glorious temple is the abode of Lord Jagannath who is a form of Lord Vishnu. It is the most revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and is included in the pious Char Dham Yatra with Badrinath, Dwarka and Rameshwaram. Apart from the main shrine that rises high, many minor temples within the complex will make you feel like you have entered God's home itself.

The splendid Oriya architecture of the Jagannath Puri Temple is an icing on the cake. The four gates are beautifully designed with intricate carvings. The scrumptious Mahaprasad of the temple is something you should not miss. In one of the largest kitchens of India, the lip-smacking food is cooked in earthen pots for thousands every day and offered to devotees. The vibrant religious festivals of the town allures tourists in large numbers. The most awaited of them is the Rath Yatra celebrated with immense gusto. The colourful ambience, interesting rituals, vim and vigour of the pilgrims is worth witnessing. Be it the sanctity, the delicious food, the serenity or the exuberance towards God, Jagannath Puri temple seems to tick all the boxes and hence, is a place worth including on your bucket list.   Some facts about Jagannath Puri Temple

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Q. Please give the suggestion whether the Gate being Closed for Darshan of Sri Jagannath Temple between 25th June 2019 till 28th June 2019, because my family are interested to Visit Puri for Darshan on the said Period.

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Jagannath Puri Odisha

Jagannath Puri is a city located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha . It is famous for the Jagannath Temple , which is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath , a form of Lord Vishnu, and hosts the annual Rath Yatra festival, during which the deities are taken out in a procession on chariots. The city is also known for its beaches, especially Puri Beach , which attracts many tourists.

Jagannath Puri story

There are various stories and legends associated with Jagannath Puri , but the most well-known one is the story of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra . According to the legend, Lord Krishna, during his earthly life, expressed his desire to spend his last days on Earth in Puri.

The legend goes that after Lord Krishna’s death, his body was cremated and his bones were taken by his devotees to Puri, where they were enshrined as the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in the Jagannath Temple. The idols are made of wood and are replaced every twelve years in a ritual called Navakalevara.

Another popular story associated with Jagannath Puri is the story of the Rath Yatra, which is a procession during which the idols of the deities are taken out on chariots. It is believed that the tradition of Rath Yatra dates back to the time of Lord Krishna, who used to take his devotees on a chariot ride.

According to the legend, one day, Lord Krishna’s friend, Sudama, came to visit him, but Lord Krishna was so overwhelmed by his love for Sudama that he forgot to ask him to stay for dinner. Sudama then left, feeling disappointed. Later, Lord Krishna, realizing his mistake, decided to make it up to Sudama by taking him on a chariot ride. The tradition of Rath Yatra is believed to have originated from this incident, and it is seen as a symbol of the love and devotion between Lord Krishna and his devotees.

Puri Jagannath Temple

Puri Jagannath Temple is one of the most popular temples in India. It is located in Puri, Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is believed to be a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the four important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, known as the Char Dham. It is also known as the world’s largest Hindu temple .

Jagannath temple, puri photos

Jagannath Puri Temple History

The history of Jagannath Temple in Puri dates back to the 12th century when it was built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.

Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several renovations and expansions. The temple’s central structure, the Vimana or Bada Deula, is about 214 feet high and is made of Khondalite stone. The temple also has four entrance gates, one for each direction, and is surrounded by a wall.

One of the unique features of the Jagannath Temple is that it has no idol or image of the deities. Instead, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are made of wood and are replaced every twelve years in a ritual called Navakalevara.

The temple is also known for its Rath Yatra festival, during which the deities are taken out in a procession on chariots. The festival is believed to have started in the 12th century and is considered one of the largest religious festivals in India.

The temple has a rich cultural and religious significance, and it attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year. The temple administration is managed by a body of priests and administrators, and the state government provides support for the temple’s maintenance and development.

Puri Jagannath Temple Timings

Puri Jagannath Temple is open for darshan from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm every day. However, the temple timings may change on festival days or special occasions.

The temple has various rituals and pujas that are performed throughout the day. Some of the main ones are:

Mangala Aart i: This is the first aarti of the day, performed at 5:30 am after the opening of the sanctum.

Sahanamela: This is a free darshan for pilgrims who can go up to the inner sanctum or Ratnavedi without paying any fees. It is held from 8:00 am to 9:00 am on most days, except on some festive days when it is held after evening puja.

Sakala Dhupa: This is the morning food offering to the deities, also known as Raja Bhoga or Kotha Bhoga. It consists of various delicacies such as Pitha Puli, Hansakeli, Kanti, Enduri, Matha Puli, Kakatua Jhili, Bundia, Kadali Bhaja, Ada Pachedi, etc. It is performed from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

Madhyana Dhupa: This is the afternoon food offering to the deities, also known as Bhoga Mandap. It consists of a huge quantity of rice, dal, curries, cakes, etc. It is prepared for different maths and for sale to the public. It is performed from 10:30 am to 11:00 am

Sandhya Dhupa: This is the evening food offering to the deities, also known as Sandhya Aarti. It consists of various items such as Khaja, Gaja, Ladoo etc. It is performed from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Badasinghara Besha: This is the night dress of the deities, also known as Chandana Lagi. It consists of silk clothes and flower garlands. It is performed from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Badasinghara Dhupa: This is the last food offering of the day to the deities, also known as Pahili Bhoga. It consists of Pakhala (watered rice), Kadalibhaja (fried plantain), Kanji (rice gruel) etc. It is performed from 10:30 pm to 11:00 pm

Pahuda: This is the final ritual of the day when the deities are put to sleep with Puspanjali (flower offering), Muda (bed), and Sodha (cleaning). It is performed at 11:30 pm.

If you want to visit Puri Jagannath Temple, you need to follow some rules and dress codes. You need to wear a decent outfit and remove your shoes before entering the temple premises. You also need to be a Hindu as non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.

What is the mystery of Jagannath Temple?

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is shrouded in mystery and has many legends and stories associated with it. Here are some of the mysteries or interesting facts related to the temple:

• The idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are made of neem wood, which is not usually used for making idols. It is said that the wood for the idols is chosen by an aged carpenter who goes into the forest and selects it without using any tools.
• The Sudarshana Chakra, a weapon of Lord Vishnu, is placed on the top of the temple, and it can be seen from anywhere in Puri. The mystery surrounding the Sudarshana Chakra is that it can only be seen from one side. No matter from which direction you view the temple, the Chakra appears to be facing you.
• The temple kitchen is known to be the largest kitchen in the world, where food is cooked for thousands of devotees every day. The mystery surrounding the kitchen is that the food is cooked in pots that are stacked one on top of the other, and the food at the bottom gets cooked first, while the food at the top gets cooked last.
• The temple is also known for its secret chambers or bhandaaras, which are said to contain treasures and artifacts worth billions of rupees. Some of these chambers are said to have never been opened, and their contents remain a mystery.

Puri station to Jagannath temple distance

The distance between Puri Station and Jagannath Temple is 3.33 km. The best way to get from Puri Station to Jagannath Temple is to take a taxi which takes 2 minutes and costs ₹80 – ₹100. You can also walk from Puri Station to Jagannath Temple which takes 25 minutes.

Jagannath Puri nearest airport

Jagannath Puri does not have an airport, but the nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport located 65 km away. Bhubaneswar Airport is well-connected with Kolkata, Delhi, Vishakapatnam, Raipur, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and major Indan Cities.

Jagannath Puri nearest railway station

The nearest railway station to Jagannath Puri is Puri Railway Station, located just 3.33 km from the Jagannath Temple. Puri Railway Station is a busy station handling around 92 trains daily and serving about 138,000 passengers. It has direct express and superfast trains to Mumbai, Kolkata, Okha, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Tirupati, and other cities. Some of the major trains are Jagannath Express, Kolkata (Howrah) Puri Howrah Express, and Purushottam Express.

Another railway station near Jagannath Puri is Khurda Road Junction & Bhubaneswar Railway Station, which is 44 km from Khurda road to Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to puri.

Best time to visit jagannath puri

The best time to visit Jagannath Puri is between August and February when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 16°C and 28°C. This is a good time to enjoy the beach and visit temples.

The summer season from March to May is not a very good time to visit Jagannath Puri as the weather is very hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 45°C.

The monsoon season from June to July is also not very favorable as Puri receives heavy rainfall and thunderstorms which may cause inconvenience for travelers.

Jagannath Puri nearby places to visit

There are many places to visit near Jagannath Puri that are worth exploring. Some of them are

• Jagannath Temple
• Narendra Tank
• Mausima Temple
• Gundicha Temple
• Lokanath Mandir
• Puri Golden Beach
• Sudarshan Craft Museum
• Kaktpur Mangala Temple
• Konark sun temple
• Konark Museum
• Chandrabhaga Beach
• Ramachandi Temple & Beach (Boating)
• Swargadwar Beach Craft Market
• Sankaracharya Matha, Balihar Chandi (Optional)
• Bramhagiri Temple
• Chilika Lake & Sanctuary
• Satapada Dolphin Site
• Siruli Mahavir
• Chilka Bird Sanctuary
• Linngaraj Temple
• Rajarani Temple
• Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves
• Nandan Kanan Zoo
• Bhubaneswar Museum.

Things to do in Jagannath Puri

There are many things to do in Jagannath Puri that can make your trip memorable and enjoyable.

Visit the Lord Jagannath Temple : This is the main attraction of Puri and one of the most revered temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is a form of Lord Vishnu, and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The temple has unique architecture and rituals that attract millions of pilgrims every year.

Enjoy the Puri Beach : This is one of the most popular beaches in Odisha and attracts many tourists and pilgrims. It offers a scenic view of the Bay of Bengal and has many activities such as camel rides, surfing, sand art etc. You can also watch the sunrise and sunset from the beach and relax on the golden sand.

Explore the Konark Sun Temple : This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of ancient architecture. It is located near Konark Beach and is dedicated to the Sun God. It has a magnificent stone chariot with twelve wheels and seven horses that symbolize the movement of the sun across the sky. It also has intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various aspects of life and culture.

Visit the Sudarshan Craft Museum : This is a museum that showcases the art and craft of Odisha, especially the wooden carvings of Lord Jagannath and his siblings. It also has a workshop, a library, and a Buddhist temple. You can learn about the history and techniques of wood carving and buy some souvenirs from the museum shop.

See the Sakshigopal Temple : This is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. It is located 20 km from Puri and has a legend associated with it. It is believed that Lord Krishna appeared here as a witness (sakshi) to fulfill the promise of a poor Brahmin boy who married a rich girl.

Experience the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary : This is a wildlife sanctuary that covers the Chilika Lake, which is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. It is home to many migratory birds, dolphins, turtles, crabs, and fish species. It also has many islands and temples to visit. You can take a boat ride on the lake and spot some rare wildlife.

Golden Beach Puri : A clean and beautiful beach with golden sand and clear water. It is also known as Swargadwar Beach and is considered a sacred place for Hindus.

Puri Light House : A landmark that offers a panoramic view of the sea and the city. It is also a good spot for watching the sunrise and sunset.

Konark Beach: A scenic beach that is famous for its proximity to the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a good place for swimming and surfing.

Boat Tours & Water Sports : You can enjoy boat tours, stand-up paddleboarding, dolphin and whale watching, river rafting, and tubing at various places near Puri.

Kayaking: You can also try kayaking, which is a fun and easy way to explore the water. One of the best places to try kayaking near Puri is Palolem Beach, which is about 100 km away. You can also find kayaking options at Dona Paula and Hollant Beach.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling : If you want to experience the underwater world, you can also go for scuba diving and snorkeling near Puri. You can find some of the best diving sites at Netrani Island, which is about 200 km away from Puri. You can also try snorkeling at Tarkarli Beach, which is about 150 km away.

Overall, the Jagannath Temple in Puri is a place of great cultural and religious significance, and its mysteries and legends only add to its charm and allure.

Best Packages

Puri Sightseeing tours 2 days

1 Night/2 Days (12000 INR/ 2 Person)

Puri Family Tour Package

2Nights / 3Days (27000 INR / 5 Person)

Puri Tour Package for Couple

4Nights / 5Days (32000 INR)

Puri Tour Plan for 4 days

3Night / 4Days (25000 INR / 2 Person)

Senior Citizen Tour

3 Night 4 Days Price : 25000 / 2 Person

Biraja Temple Tour

3 Nights 4 Days (28000 / 2 Person)

Best of Puri in 5 days tour

5days / 4Nights (44000 INR /4 person)

Gangasagar & Puri Tour

6 Nights 7 Days Tour Package

Puri Tour Package for 3 days

2Nights / 3Days (17000 INR / 2 Person)

Corporate Tour

2 nights 3 days tour package

Chilika lake

Konark temple nearby places to visit on a 1day trip

Golden Beach Puri

Puri tour plan Questions & Answers

Lingaraj temple

Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves

Puri Jagannath Temple Plunges Into Darkness For 20 Minutes Amid Power Outage

Puri: A sudden power outage caused 20 minutes of blackout at Shree Jagannath Temple of Odisha’s Puri on Wednesday evening.

According to sources, the power outage took place around 9 pm when the main temple was closed for Banakaligi Niti and Anasara Pindi, the wood replacement work, and devotees were having darshan of other deities on the shrine premises.

To the surprise of locals, the power backup system of the temple also did not work even as the temple administration made all attempts to switch it on. Devotees were seen taking the help of earthen diyas to navigate through the darkness near Singhadwara, Baisi Pahacha and other areas of the temple.

Some areas of the temple were later lighted up with the help of mini inverters, eyewitnesses told the media.

As the temple sees many visitors from outside the state and abroad, the incident has raised question on administration’s failure to provide uninterrupted power supply to the 12th-century shrine.

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Modi vs Patnaik-Pandian & the quiet Odia

V oting for 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147-member Vidhan Sabha elections got underway yesterday (May 13) — over four phases — on the backdrop of a failed coalition attempt between incumbent BJD and principal opposition BJP. An unusual camaraderie between the two has transformed into intensely contested electoral battles. Congress, a distant third, is relevant mostly in tribal southern Odisha.

Naveen Patnaik’s return will make history — India’s longest-serving CM. If BJP wins the 147-member assembly, Odisha will for the first time see a saffron party form govt. BJP was junior partner in Naveen-led govt from 2000 to 2009.

BJP’s aggressive campaign saw its tally increase from one LS seat in 2014 to eight in 2019; its vote share leapt from 16.9% to 38.4% in five years. Yet, it couldn’t dent BJD in the assembly, winning only 23 seats (32.5% votes), while BJD won 112 seats (44.7%). The state also witnessed split voting with many opting for BJP in LS and BJD in Vidhan Sabha.

Frenemies | But BJP and BJD relations turned more than cordial the past five years. Naveen unquestioningly supported BJP at the Centre. In return, BJP went easy on the regional party, Modi praising Naveen’s governance in Rajya Sabha in Feb 2022.

Modi and Amit Shah have held no political event in Odisha in the last five years. Weeks before the election schedule, PM visited twice — in Feb and March — but refrained from criticising Naveen, calling him “dear friend” and “Odisha’s popular CM”.

In March, talk of a possible BJP-BJD coalition gained ground — an unusual pact had it happened between a party and its main opposition — would’ve instantly vacated opposition space to Congress’s advantage. Hectic parleys ended on an abrupt note with BJD saying it couldn’t agree with BJP on the matter of ‘Odia Asmita’ (self-respect), which over the past two months has unfolded into a key poll issue.

Pandianomics | BJP and Congress have both targeted Naveen’s close associate, bureaucrat-turned-BJD politician VK Pandian. Pandian joined Naveen as his private secretary in 2011. In his fifth term as CM, Naveen introduced his 5T governance charter, which stands for ‘teamwork, technology, transparency, time and transformation’. Pandian was appointed its chief.

Over time, most departments were brought under 5T. After opting for early retirement last year, the IAS officer took a political plunge and was given cabinet rank. Also BJD’s star campaigner, second only to Naveen, he is the only senior campaigning statewide. BJP’s made Pandian its prime target, alleging govt’s been “outsourced” to an outsider, given Naveen age. If BJD does well, Pandian will earn political legitimacy. Its failure will be seen as Pandian’s ‘unacceptability’ among people.

Temple twist | Naveen put unusual focus on uplift of places of worship leading up to Puri’s 12th century Jagannath temple. These were first regarded as complementary to Modi govt initiatives such as Kashi Vishwanath corridor.

But, inauguration of the ₹800 crore Puri heritage corridor project in Jan around the same time of the Ayodhya inauguration, was dubbed by BJP as an attempt to divert people’s attention for political gain. BJP has objected to razing ancient mutts as part of the Puri project — as an act that erases history. As polls kick off, BJP has intensified its ‘fault finding’ in Naveen’s Puri exercise.

Scheme for scheme | Despite BJD’s unwavering support for Modi govt on controversial issues, Naveen chose not to implement the Ayushman Bharat health insurance. Instead, Odisha rolled out Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana offering cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family (₹10 lakh for women). BJD’s made the scheme’s ‘success’ a major poll plank. As a counter, BJP’s targeted BJD for not implementing Ayushman Bharat.

In its Odisha poll manifesto, BJP’s pledged to buy paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal, around 40% above current MSP — a significant move in the largely agrarian state where paddy’s the main crop. BJD has promised free electricity upto 100 units, Congress has pledged 200 units free and PM Surya Ghar is BJP’s free power scheme. BJP’s promise of ₹50,000 cash voucher for women and BJD’s pledge of ₹20,000 crore support to women SHGs are other competing promises.

Congress draws attention to BJP-BJD ‘tacit understanding’ — similar to its Telangana approach last year, where the party talked up the BRS-BJP relationship ahead of the assembly election. Mega crowds at rallies aside, the electorate remains uncharacteristically quiet. Question on everyone’s mind is whether Naveen’s juggernaut will continue to roll, or will a saffron surge stop him?

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