Puri is revered as one of India’s holiest pilgrimage sites and celebrated for its golden beaches, Puri offers an experience that is both divine and delightful. This vibrant coastal city of Odisha, is a destination where the spiritual and the scenic blend seamlessly. You can be drawn to Puri by the sacred aura of Jagannath or the lively energy of the waves crashing at its shores.
Divine Landmarks: Jagannath Puri and the Rath Yatra
At the heart of Puri’s spiritual identity stands the magnificent 12th-century marvel, Jagannath Temple. Dedicated to a form of Lord Vishnu called Lord Jagannath, it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. The temple’s towering spires, intricate Kalinga architecture, world’s largest temple kitchen (where Mahaprasad is prepared earthen pots by hundreds of cooks), the Ananda Bazaar (where devotees can savor this sacred food), and vibrant rituals draw millions of devotees each year. The temple’s unique features like its shadowless structure and the flag atop the spire that always flutters against the wind add to its mystical allure.
Pic credit of Jagannath Rath Yatra @ rathyatra.org
One of the most spectacular events is the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, held on the second day of Ashadha Shukla. This ancient chariot festival is the largest of its kind in the world. As a part of the Rath Yatra, three colossal wooden chariots carry Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra idols through the city’s grand avenue to the Gundicha Temple. During the return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra, the deities pause at the Mausi Maa Temple for a special offering of Poda Pitha, a traditional pancake. The sight of thousands of devotees pulling the chariots, singing, and dancing in devotion is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Puri Beach: Where Serenity Meets Celebration
A paradise of golden sands and gentle waves, the Puri beach is just a short walk from the temple. The Beach that stretches along the Bay of Bengal is the largest and most popular beach in Odisha. Being the east coast of India, early mornings are perfect for visiting the beach to witness an awe-inspiring sunrise. For a panoramic view, climb the Beach lighthouse, open in the late afiernoons. In the evenings, the beach becomes a lively place where local fishermen haul in their catch and tourists enjoy a nice seafood snack while soaking in the sea breeze.
The Puri Beach Festival, held annually, transforms the shore into a stage celebrating Odisha’s rich culture through music, dance, and art. Here, you can also see the widely popular sand art by internationally acclaimed artist Sudarsan Pattnaik.
More Places to Explore Around Puri
While Puri is mostly about beaches and temples, some other gems include:
- Konark Sun Temple: Renowned for its intricate stone carvings and one of India’s architectural wonders, this chariot-shaped 13th-century temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, just a short drive from Puri, is a haven for birdwatchers and boaters. Spot migratory birds, playful dolphins, and visit the scenic Kalijai Island.
- Raghurajpur Artist Village: Only 14 km from Puri, this heritage village is famous for Pattachitra paintings and traditional crafis. Watch artisans at work, buy unique souvenirs, and even try your hand at painting.
- Pipili: Known for its vibrant appliqué handicrafis, Pipili is a great stop for shopping colourful umbrellas, wall hangings, and bags.
- Ramchandi Temple: Located on the banks of the Kushabhadra River, this temple is a peaceful spot for picnics and photography.
- Swargadwar Beach: Believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu ascended to heaven. For a stroll in the evening with a divine atmosphere it is the perfect place to be.
How to Reach
Puri is well-connected to major cities across India:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km from Puri.
- By Train: Puri Railway Station is centrally located and connects to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Chennai.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis ply between Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri. The drive from Bhubaneswar takes about 1.5 hours, making it easy to include Puri in an Odisha itinerary.
From the airport and railway station, taxis and buses are readily available to reach the city.
Where to Stay in Puri: Hotels like Chanakya BNR and Mayfair Heritage offer easy access to Jagannath Mandir Puri Odisha. Beachfront resorts and hotels along Marine Drive provide stunning sea views and quick access to Puri Beach.
Opt for cycle rickshaw and auto-rickshaw rides, which are widely available and pocket-friendly for short distances. For exploring nearby attractions like Konark, Chilika Lake, or Raghurajpur, hire a taxi or book a day tour through your hotel.
What to Eat in Puri: The Mahaprasad from the Jagannath Temple includes rice, dal, vegetables, and sweets, all cooked in earthen pots and served with divine blessings. Sample local street foods like khaja, pakhala bhata, vegetable pakodas, and chhena poda (a baked cheese dessert) at the beach stalls and city markets. Seafood lovers can relish the fresh prawns, crabs, and pomfrets available at Puri Beach shacks.
Conclusion
Puri is a destination that effortlessly weaves together the sacred and the scenic. From the spiritual grandeur of Jagannath Puri and the vibrant spectacle of the Puri Rath Yatra, to the golden sands of Puri Beach and the artistic heritage of Raghurajpur, every moment here feels both divine and delightful. With its easy accessibility, warm hospitality, and a wealth of experiences, Puri invites you to immerse yourself in a journey that nourishes both soul and senses.
By: Anushka Singhal