Puri Travel Guide

Puri Travel Guide

When one lists the names of tourist places in Orissa, Puri unquestionable tops the list. A captivating coastal town situated on the Bay of Bengal, Puri can be best described as a cultural hub of India. It is a place where you will find the sea in complete harmony with a land dotted with impressive temples of superb architectural work. Popularly known as the abode of Lord Jagannath it is the most revered pilgrim destinations in the country. It is located at a distance of 60km from the city of Bhubaneshwar.


According to common belief one’s pilgrimage expedition is considered complete only when he/she has visited the temples of Puri. With the spectacular sea forming the backdrop, and a number of temples worth a stopover, Puri has always fascinated tourist and will continue to do so in the years to come.


In the list of tourist attractions in Puri, the Jagannath Temple tops. It is regarded as the most sacred temple in the country having scores of religious implications for the ardent Hindus. The establishment of the temple dates back to the 12th century and the person behind the foundation of the temple is Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev. There is an interesting legend associated with the Jagannath Temple that revolves around the story of King Indradyumna and his dream. It is one of the tallest temples in India and the gigantic feature of the temple creates an intriguing aura. On the walls and roofs of the temples are superb carvings that stupefies tourist and leaves them dazed. The temple is the abode of the images of Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra and brother Balabhadra.


During the eminent festival of Rath Yatra, the three images are taken out in a chariot which then proceeds in the form of procession through the streets of Puri. This festival symbolises or marks Lord Jagannath’s return to his kingdom on earth. The temple premise also houses a number of small temples worth a glance.


There is the Gundicha Temple, Swargadwar Beach and Chilka Lake some other prominent tourist places that deserve your attention. The Gundicha Temple is dedicated to maternal aunt of Lord Jagannath and it is here that the three idols of the Jagannath Temple are brought during the annual rath yatra. A visit to the Chilka Lake is a must. Reputed for being the largest lake not only of India but of Asia, the lake lies at a close proximity to Puri. Cruising in the Lake will bring you close to nature and introduce you to various aquatic lives and rare species of birds.


Well connected, Puri can be reached through air, rail or by road. Plan a trip to Puri with Puri travel guide, to experience an aura of spirituality unmatched and to enjoy at the same time, nature’s bounty.  

Last Updated: 04/09/2012