Best Places To Visit In Puri

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Puri, a revered coastal city in Odisha, is a prime destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a rich blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here's a breakdown of the must-visit tourist places in Puri:

1. Shree Jagannath Temple:

  • Significance: This 12th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Vishnu) and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. It's a cornerstone of Hindu faith and attracts millions of devotees.

  • Architecture: The temple is a magnificent example of Kalinga architecture, with a towering main structure.

  • Rituals: Daily rituals begin early in the morning with "Mangal Aarati" and continue throughout the day with various food offerings (Bhog) and adornments (Beshalagi). The temple generally remains open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though timings for specific rituals may vary.

  • Note: Only Hindus are permitted inside the temple premises. Non-Hindus can view the temple from a nearby rooftop. Dress modestly and avoid carrying mobile phones, cameras, leather items, or footwear inside.

  • Rath Yatra: The annual Car Festival (Rath Yatra) is a grand spectacle where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are carried in massive chariots through the streets, attracting a global audience.

2. Puri Beach:

  • Features: Known for its golden sands and the majestic view of the Bay of Bengal, Puri Beach is a popular spot for relaxation, swimming, and leisurely strolls.

  • Sand Art: It's famous for the stunning sand art created by internationally acclaimed artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, often depicting cultural and social themes.

  • Swargadwar Beach: A sacred part of Puri Beach, believed to be where Lord Vishnu ascended to heaven. It's also a popular site for performing rituals for departed souls.

3. Konark Sun Temple:

  • Location: Approximately 35 km northeast of Puri.

  • Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It's designed as a gigantic chariot with intricately carved stone wheels and horses.

  • Architecture: Despite being largely in ruins, its intricate artwork, iconography, and themes (including erotic sculptures) are a testament to its architectural brilliance.

  • Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

  • Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indian nationals and SAARC/BIMSTEC visitors; INR 550 for foreign tourists.

4. Chilika Lake:

  • Location: About an hour's drive from Puri.

  • Significance: Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

  • Wildlife: It's home to Irrawaddy dolphins and attracts thousands of migratory birds during winter (from as far as the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, etc.).

  • Activities: Boat rides are popular for dolphin spotting and visiting various islands like Kalijai Island (with its famous temple), Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, Honeymoon Island, and Breakfast Island.

  • Boat Ride Cost (approximate):

    • Basic (Dolphin, Local Birds): ₹1500 for 1.5 hours (per boat, 6 adults & 2 children).

    • Standard (Dolphin, Local Birds, Heaven Island, Mini Kalijai Temple): ₹2500 for 3.5 hours.

    • Premium (Dolphin, Sea Mouth Island, Local Birds, Red Crab): ₹2500 for 3.5 hours.

    • Diamond (Dolphin, Nalabana Bird Sanctuary): ₹3500 for 4 hours.

    • Platinum (Dolphin, Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, Kalijai Temple): ₹5200 for 7 hours.

    • Note: Prices can vary and it's best to confirm with local boat operators.

5. Gundicha Temple:

  • Significance: Also known as the "Garden House of Jagannath," this temple is the destination where Lord Jagannath and his siblings are taken during the annual Rath Yatra.

  • Atmosphere: Surrounded by lush gardens, it offers a serene environment.

6. Raghurajpur Artist Village:

  • Location: Just 14 km from Puri.

  • Art & Culture: A heritage crafts village renowned for its Pattachitra paintings (a traditional art form of Odisha), as well as stone carvings, wooden toys, and other handicrafts. You can witness artisans at work and purchase authentic souvenirs.

7. Pipili:

  • Location: Located on the Puri-Bhubaneswar road, about 45 minutes from Puri.

  • Handicrafts: Famous for its vibrant appliqué work, where colorful fabrics are cut and stitched onto a base cloth to create intricate designs.

Other Notable Places:

  • Atharanala Bridge: A marvel of medieval Odishan architecture, this 13th-century bridge with eighteen arches serves as a gateway to Puri.

  • Markandeshwar Temple: An ancient Shiva temple dating back to the 13th century.

  • Narendra Tank: A large sacred tank, important for various rituals.

Puri offers a truly unique travel experience, blending spiritual devotion with coastal charm and artistic heritage.

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