10 Puri Tourist Places

Puri is a popular tourist destination in India, known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and religious significance. Some of the most popular tourist places in Puri include.

Puri is a coastal city located in the state of Odisha, India. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and religious significance. The city is home to the famous Jagannath Temple, which is one of the most important Hindu temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.

Puri is also known for its beautiful beaches, the most famous of which is Puri Beach. This beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. The beach is also home to several shacks and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood.

Puri is also a popular destination for spiritual and religious tourism. The city is home to many other temples, including the Gundicha Temple, the Lokanath Temple, and the Vimala Temple.

Puri is also known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are several festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Some of the most famous festivals in Puri include the Rath Yatra, the Snana Yatra, and the Janmashtami.

Puri is also a great destination for nature lovers, it’s surrounded by lush green hills and beautiful beaches, and it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Jagannath Temple:

The most famous and important tourist attraction in Puri, the Jagannath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture and is one of the four sacred shrines of India. The temple is also the site of the annual Rath Yatra festival, where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra are taken out in a procession on huge chariots.

Raghurajpur Heritage Village:

This is a traditional village that is known for its unique architectural heritage and cultural significance. The village is home to a number of traditional houses and temples, as well as a number of craftsmen who still practice traditional crafts such as Pattachitra painting, palm leaf engraving, and stone carving. Visitors can also witness the traditional lifestyle of the village and learn more about the local culture.

Konark Sun Temple:

The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important tourist attractions in Puri. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its architectural beauty and intricate carvings. The temple complex is also home to a number of smaller shrines and temples, as well as a museum that houses a collection of sculptures and artifacts.

Chilika Lake:

Chilika Lake is the largest saltwater lake in Asia and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 160 species of migratory birds visiting the lake every year. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the lake to see the dolphins and other aquatic animals that live in the lake.

Puri Beach:

Puri Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Odisha and is known for its clean sand and clear waters. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.

Shree Gundicha Temple:

This temple is situated just opposite to the Jagannath temple and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath’s aunt. The temple is also known as the “Garden House” of Lord Jagannath. The temple is also the main location for the annual Rath Yatra festival, where the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are parked.

Markandeswar Temple:

Markandeswar temple is one of the ancient temples in Puri and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its architectural beauty and the intricate carvings on the walls and the pillars. The temple is also known for its annual Shivaratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Loknath Temple:

Loknath temple is one of the oldest temples in Puri and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and the intricate carvings on the walls and the pillars. The temple is also known for its annual Shivaratri festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Alarnath Temple:

Alarnath temple is one of the ancient temples in Puri and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and the intricate carvings on the walls and the pillars. The temple is also known for its annual Janmashtami festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Pipili Village:

Pipili is a small village located about 20km from Puri, known for its unique applique work, a traditional art form where colorful fabrics are stitched together to create intricate designs. Visitors can find a wide range of products such as wall hangings, bags, and cushion covers made using this art form. The village is also home to a number of traditional houses and temples, giving visitors a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and culture of the area. Additionally, Pipili is a perfect spot for a nature lover, you can find different species of birds and butterflies in the local environment.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Puri depends on the type of activities and experiences you are looking for.

• October to March: This is the best time to visit Puri if you want to avoid the heat and humidity and enjoy the cooler weather. This period is also the peak tourist season in Puri, and you can expect to find plenty of festivals and events taking place during this time.
• April to June: This is the summer season in Puri, and the weather can be quite hot and humid. However, this is also the time when the famous Rath Yatra festival takes place, which is a major draw for tourists.
• July to September: This is the monsoon season in Puri, and the weather can be quite wet and unpredictable. However, if you don’t mind the rain, this is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the lush green landscape.

It’s also worth noting that Puri is a religious city and the best time to visit would be during the festivals, like the famous Rath Yatra in June-July, during this festival the whole city is decorated and lively.

Puri Festival

Puri is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and religious traditions, and as such, there are a number of festivals that take place throughout the year. Some of the most famous festivals in Puri include:

• Rath Yatra: This is one of the most famous festivals in Puri and is celebrated in June-July. It is also known as the “Chariot Festival,” and it is celebrated in honor of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. The idols of the three deities are taken out in a grand procession on huge chariots, which are pulled by thousands of devotees. The festival is celebrated with great fanfare, and it attracts tourists and devotees from all over the world.
• Snana Yatra: This festival is celebrated in June-July, and it marks the bathing of the deities at the Jagannath Temple. The idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are bathed with 108 pots of scented water and sandalwood paste, and then they are placed on the “Anasara Pindi” (a special platform) for a period of 15 days.
• Janmashtami: This is a festival that celebrates the birthday of Lord Krishna and it is celebrated in August. It is celebrated with great fervor and devotion in Puri and the Jagannath Temple. The temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and special prayers and rituals are performed.
• Dussehra: This festival is celebrated in September-October and it marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king, Ravana. The festival is celebrated with great fanfare in Puri, and it is also celebrated in the Jagannath Temple.
• Diwali: This is the festival of lights and it is celebrated in October-November. It is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm in Puri, and the city is decorated with lights and flowers.

These are some of the major festivals celebrated in Puri, but there are many other smaller festivals and events that take place throughout the year. To know more about the festivals you can check with the local tourist office or check with your hotel or resort.

How to reach Puri

Puri is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from various parts of the country. Here are a few options to reach Puri:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Puri is the Bhubaneswar airport, which is located about 60 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, and there are regular flights to and from these cities. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri.
• By Train: Puri has its own railway station, and there are several trains that connect Puri to other major cities in India. Some of the major trains that run to and from Puri are Purushottam Express, Konark Express, and Dhauli Express.
• By Road: Puri is well-connected by road, and there are several bus services that run to and from the city. Buses are available from major cities like Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Cuttack, and there are also long-distance buses that run to and from other parts of the state and country.
• By Car: You can also drive to Puri, the city is well connected by road, and the National Highway 16 connects it to other major cities in the region.

Once you reach Puri, you can take a rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to move around the city. The city is small and easy to navigate and you can also walk around the city.

Nearby Attractions

Puri is a popular tourist destination and there are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore. Some of the most popular nearby attractions include:

• Dhauli Peace Pagoda: This is a Buddhist Peace Pagoda, and it is located about 8 km from Puri. The Pagoda was built by the Japanese monk, Shanti Swarup Bhikshu, and it is a symbol of peace and non-violence. The pagoda is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and it offers a peaceful atmosphere.
• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: These are ancient caves located about 60 km from Puri, which were carved out of rocks in the 2nd century BC. The caves are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures, and they offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

These are some of the popular nearby attractions that you can visit during your stay in Puri. You can also check with the local tourist office for more information on nearby attractions and things to do in the area.

Where to Stay

Puri is a popular beach town in the Indian state of Odisha. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. If you are planning to visit Puri and looking for a place to stay, here are some options you can consider:

1. Beach Resorts: There are several beach resorts in Puri that offer a luxurious and comfortable stay. Some of the popular options include Mayfair Waves, Hans Coco Palms, and Sterling Puri.
2. Budget Hotels: If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, there are several budget hotels and guest houses in Puri. Some of the popular ones include Hotel Holiday Resort, Hotel Golden Dust, and Hotel Shreehari Grand.
3. Homestays: You can also opt for homestays in Puri, which will give you an opportunity to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Some of the popular homestays in Puri include Konark Nest and Puri Beach Homestay.
4. Heritage Hotels: Puri also has some beautiful heritage hotels that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history and culture. Some of the popular options include Toshali Sands, Hotel Gajapati, and Hotel Sagar Kanya.

When choosing a place to stay, consider factors such as location, budget, and amenities. Also, make sure to book in advance, especially during the peak season, as accommodation options tend to get filled up quickly.

Puri Puja timing

Puri is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site and home to the famous Jagannath Temple. The temple is known for its grand festivals and daily rituals, including the daily puja timings. The puja timings at the Jagannath Temple in Puri are as follows:

1. Mangala Arati: 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM
2. Mailam: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
3. Abakash: 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
4. Surya Puja: 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
5. Gopala Ballava Puja: 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
6. Sakala Dhupa: 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
7. Madhyana Dhupa: 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
8. Sandhya Arati: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
9. Bhoga Mandap: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
10. Badasinghara Besha: 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
11. Shayana Vesha: 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Please note that these timings are subject to change during festivals and special occasions. It is always advisable to check the temple’s official website or contact them directly to confirm the puja timings before visiting.