Puri Beach Tour
Where is Puri?
Puri is located in the state of Orissa on the coast of the Bay of Bengal in India. It lies at a distance of 60 km from the capital city of Bhubaneshwar. Puri has acquired utmost popularity on account of its vast expanse of silvery beach. It is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage centres of the country.
How will you gain access?
Bhubaneshwar (56 km) is the closest airport from Puri. The airport operates regular flights connecting the place to all the major destinations of India. Puri has its railway station and is well-linked with almost all the towns and cities of the country. By road, Puri has fabulous connections with the rest of Orissa and Kolkata.
What magnetises people?
» Jagannath Temple – Puri Beach Tour
Built-in the 12th century, the Jagannath Temple is counted among the four major pilgrimage centres of the country. The temple soars up to a height of 65 metres. Non-Hindus, however, are not allowed inside the temple premises.
» Chilka Lake – Puri Beach Tour
Chilka Lake is a major attraction around Puri. The lake, spreading over an area of 1100 sq km, is Asia’s largest freshwater lake. A rich variety of aquatic fauna has found its home at the lake. One can also spot sportive dolphins here. During the winters, migratory birds arrive here in huge numbers.
» Gundicha Ghar
The Gundicha Temple, another attraction at Puri, is named after Lord Krishna’s aunt Gundicha. During the Rath Yatra ceremony, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken out in a Rath (Wooden chariot) from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Ghar.
The Balighai beach is located at a distance of 8 km from Puri. It lies at the mouth of river Nuanai. Lined with lovely Casuarina trees, it is a popular picnic spot.
» Sakshi Gopal
20 km away from Puri, the place called Sakshi Gopal has a life-size image of child Krishna. The place commemorates the incident when Lord Krishna arrived here as a witness to settle a dispute between two Brahmins. It is said that the Lord liked the place so much that he decided to stay here for a while.
What are the beach sports in store?
one can while away one’s time on the beach opting for a boat ride, enjoying the virgin and sensuous beaches. The local fishermen with the catamarans will provide you with memorable catamaran rides. The beach, being shallow, is an ideal spot for walking near the sea. Swimming can be done near the beach, for the waves can prove to be risky.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Good accommodation is easily available at Puri. Hotel Toshali Sands (65 km from the airport) is a 4-star offering 50 luxurious cottages and villas with an exclusive verandah and garden. The luxury group of hotels include some popular names like Hans Coco Palms Beach Resort, Hotel Nilachal Ashok and Mayfair Beach Resort.
What is the best time?
Puri has an excellent coastal type of climate. During the summers, the maximum temperature records 38 degrees while the minimum during the winters is 15.2 degrees centigrade. The best time to visit is between the months of November and February
