Location : Orissa
Tourist Attractions : Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach
Local Tongue : Oriya, Hindi
STD Code : (91) - 6752
Best time to Visit : October to March
About Puri
Situated in the South Indian state of Orissa, Puri is one of the most
sacred Hindu cities, being the abode of Lord Jagannath. Thousands of
devotees start thronging the Jagannath temple and other nearby places of
revere since the break of dawn and the buzz continues till late in the
evening. Puri is also home to an enchanting beach, which besides attracting
devotees also draws a number of tourists for its salubrious climate and
quaint atmosphere. The chequered history of Puri witnessed it being
conquered and ruled by numerous dynasties such as Kalinga and Maurya, before
being captured by the British during the early part of the 19th century.
Climate & Best time to Visit
Puri being a sea side city experiences a humid climate. Summer season can
be extremely hot, especially during the peak months, while monsoons
experience torrential rainfall accompanied with high levels of humidity.
Winters from October to March is the time when the conditions are
comfortable and best for a visit.
Religious Attractions in Puri
Jagannath Temple
Built during the 12th century, the Jagannath temple is a fine illustration
of the Kalinga style of architecture. The intricately carved gopuram of the
temple rises to a height of 214 feet, making it the tallest temple in
Orissa. Four towering gateways minutely carved and colorfully decorated
seperate the inside sanctum and the outside world. The rath yatra (chariot
procession), held during the month of July every year is a major event and
is attended by thousands of devotees from across the globe. The event marks
the homecoming of Lord Jagannath.
Gundicha Temple
The Gundicha temple is located near the Jagannath temple, at the spot from
where the Rath yatra of Puri originates. The place holds special
significance for Hindus as Lord Jagannath is said to have stayed here for
nine days.
Other
Attractions in Puri
Atharnala Bridge
The magnificent bridge connects Puri with rest of the cities in Orissa. The
perfection in the architecture is sometimes hard to believe considering the
13th century period when it was built. A number of devotees can be seen
around the area during morning, offering prayers to the rising sun.
Chilka Lake
A major tourist attraction in Puri is the Chilka Lake, which is also one of
the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The shimmering waters of the lake and
the surrounding lush greenery make it an ideal picnic spot, attracting a
number of tourists and holidaymakers every day. The shops located nearby
provide eatables and other necessities.
Puri Beach
The location of Puri, besides the sea, blesses it with some of the finest
beaches found anywhere in the country. The golden sands and cool climate of
the area draws a number of tourists to enjoy a day of fun and frolic besides
the beach. The beach festival is held in the month of October/November every
year.
Stay At
Puri is a major pilgrimage and tourist destination which receives a regular
influx of tourists throughout the year. The city offers all kinds of
accommodation including budget and luxury. Some of the best rated hotels in
Puri are Hotel Vijoya International (3 star, situated on Chakratirtha Road
just 65 km from airport, 0.5 km from railway station & 1.5 km from bus
stand), Sterling Resort (3 star equivalent, situated in Sipesarubali Village
just 65 km from airport, 5 km from railway station & 4 km from bus
stand), Hans Coco Palms (3 star, situated in Swargadwar just 65 km from
airport, 0.5 km from railway station & 3 km from bus stand), Toshali
Sands (4 star, situated on Puri - Konark Marine Drive just 65 km from
airport, 8 km from railway station & 3 km from Puri Beach) and Mayfair
Beach Resort (3 star, situated on Chakratirtha Road just 65 km from airport,
0.5 km from railway station & 1.5 km from bus stand).
Getting There
By Air : Bhubaneshwar is the nearest airport, which is
connected to major Indian cities through regular flights. From Bhubaneshwar,
you can board a bus or hire a taxi to reach Puri.
By Rail : Puri has its own railway station which connects
it with major Indian cities through regular trains.
By Road : Puri is connected to rest of the cities
inOrissa through National Highway No. 5. State transport buses operate
regularly between Puri and major neighbouring cities including Cuttack and
Bhubaneshwar.
Distance from Major Cities
- Delhi : 1306 Km
- Bhubaneshwar : 61 Km
- Calcutta : 397 Km
- Hyderabad : 817 Km
- Mumbai : 1367 Km
- Vishakhapatnam : 354 Km
