Puri – The Spiritual and Coastal Gem of Odisha
Puri, a coastal town in the state of Odisha, India, is not just a popular tourist destination; it's a place where the mystical and the divine seem to blend seamlessly. The most famous landmark here is the Jagannath Temple, a towering structure with a fascinating history and some puzzling phenomena that have left even scientists scratching their heads.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this temple is the flag that flies atop its dome. Unlike any other flag, this one defies the laws of nature by fluttering in the opposite direction of the wind. There's no scientific explanation for this, yet it has been a daily occurrence for centuries. Every day, a priest scales the temple’s walls—equivalent to a 45-story building—with no protective gear, just his bare hands, to replace the flag. This ritual is believed to be so sacred that missing it even for a day could result in the temple being closed for 18 years.
Another mystery of the Jagannath Temple is the sudden disappearance of the sound of ocean waves as soon as you step inside the temple from the Singha Dwara entrance. The sound vanishes entirely, only to return once you step outside the temple grounds. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in the evening, and like the flag, it remains unexplained by science.
Puri is indeed a place where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, making it a must-visit destination for anyone intrigued by the unexplained.
History of Puri
Also referred to as the holy land of Lord Jagannatha, Puri is known by many names in our scriptures like Rigveda, Matsya Purana, Brahma Purana, and Narada Purana. For instance, in the Rigveda, Puri is known by the name of Purushamandama-grama which means the creator deity of the world.
Ancient Period
One of the most popular destinations of Puri is the Jagannatha puri Temple. It is believed that the construction of the temple was started in 1136 AD and was completed in the 12th century. One can have a fair amount of idea of the spiritual prowess of this temple by the fact that after its construction, King Anangabhima III decided to dedicate his kingdom to Lord Jagannatha, who was known as Purushottama-Jagannatha during those times.
As per his resolve, he vowed that from then on, he, along with his descendants, would rule under the divine order, acting as Lord Jagannatha's son.
Major Attractions in and Around Puri
1. Sri Jagannath Puri Temple
There is no doubt that Sri Jagannath Puri Temple is one of the most majestic places which you must visit with your loved ones. This truly phenomenal monument was built by the then king of the Ganga Dynasty named Ananta Varman Chodaganga Deva in the 12th century. So, if you are planning a trip to Puri then this travel destination is an absolute must-visit.
2. Lokanath Temple
If the legend is to be believed then it can be said that Lokanath Temple was the hub for worshipping Shiva. And if the legends associated with this place are to be believed then, it was Lord Ram himself who had installed the Lingam in this great temple.
3. Vimala Temple
The Goddess Vimala idol is situated in the Jagannath temple and is a figurine of great reverence. It is regarded in the same light as the main deity of the temple. Moreover, it is also seen as the Shakti Peetha which means that it is one of the shrines particularly dedicated to the supreme Goddess. It is also believed that Goddess Vimala is the tantric manifestation of the Supreme Goddess Mother.
Beaches & Natural Attractions
- Puri Golden Beach – A Blue Flag-certified beach perfect for relaxation and sunrise views.
- Chilika Lake (Satpada) – The largest coastal lagoon in India, famous for Irrawaddy dolphins and birdwatching.
- Baliharachandi Beach – A serene and less crowded beach near Puri.
- Konark Beach – A beautiful coastal stretch near the Sun Temple.
Things to Do in Puri
- Visit the Jagannath Temple and witness the grand Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
- Relax at Puri Beach and enjoy seafood at beachside stalls.
- Explore Chilika Lake on a boat ride and spot Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Shop for Pattachitra paintings and Odisha handicrafts at Raghurajpur.
- Attend the Sand Art Festival at Chandrabhaga Beach.
- Take a day trip to Konark and visit the Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time to Visit Puri
- October to March – The best time for sightseeing and temple visits.
- June to July – For the famous Rath Yatra Festival.
- August to September – Monsoon brings scenic beauty but occasional high tides.
- April to May – Hot summer months, but good for beach lovers.
How to Reach Puri
Puri is considered to be one of the most spiritual getaways in India. It is located at an approximate distance of about 1,780, 1,778, 498, 1,451 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. To reach Puri, follow the below-mentioned routes given.
By Air
The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) aka Biju Patnaik Airport which is situated 60 km away. The airport has been named after the former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. It is considered to be the 15th busiest airport in India. Many prominent airlines operate to and fro with overall good flight connectivity. Once you deboard at the airport, you will need to take a cab or some other means of local transportation available to reach your destination.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Puri
By Train
Puri has its own railway station of the same name and has fairly good connectivity with other Indian cities. After deboarding your train, you will need to hire some local means of transportation available at hand to further reach your destination.
By Road
Puri is well connected to other Indian cities via motorable roadways and national highways. So, if you are planning on a road trip, then it would be an overall hassle-free experience for you. You can consider travelling by booking interstate buses, private buses, hiring cabs or if it suits you then, travel in your own car.
- From Bhubaneswar - 70 km via Bhubaneswar Puri Road
- From Cuttack - 90 km via Cuttack-Puri Bypass Road
- From Nayagarh - 115 km via NH57
Conclusion
Visiting Puri is not just a journey to a coastal town; it's an immersive experience that blends spirituality, history, and natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring Jagannath Temple with its mysterious phenomena to the serene beaches that offer a perfect retreat, Puri has something to captivate every traveler. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, a cultural adventure, or simply a peaceful escape, Puri delivers an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Puri
Q1. What is Puri famous for?
A1: Puri is famous for the Jagannath Temple, which is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The town is also known for its beautiful beaches, the annual Rath Yatra festival, and its rich cultural heritage.
Q2. When is the best time to visit Puri?
A2: The best time to visit Puri is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The Rath Yatra festival, usually held in June or July, is also a popular time to visit, though the town can be quite crowded.
Q3. How do I reach Puri?
A3: Puri is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar, about 60 kilometers away. Puri has its own railway station with regular trains from major cities in India. Buses and taxis are also available from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Q4. What are the main attractions in Puri besides the Jagannath Temple?
A4: Besides the Jagannath Temple, Puri is known for its Golden Beach, the Puri Beach Festival, the Konark Sun Temple nearby, and Chilika Lake, which is famous for bird watching and boating.
Q5. Is it necessary to be a Hindu to enter the Jagannath Temple?
A5: Yes, only Hindus are allowed to enter the Jagannath Temple. Non-Hindus can view the temple from the outside, particularly from the Raghunandan Library, which offers a good view of the temple complex.
Q6. What is the significance of the Rath Yatra festival in Puri?
A6: The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most important and celebrated events in Puri. It involves the procession of the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra on massive wooden chariots through the streets of Puri. It symbolizes the annual journey of the deities to their garden temple and is attended by millions of devotees.
Q7. Are there any special rituals or customs associated with the Jagannath Temple?
A7: Yes, several unique rituals are performed at the Jagannath Temple. One of the most fascinating is the daily changing of the flag atop the temple dome, which is done by a priest who climbs the temple without any safety gear. Another unique aspect is the disappearance of the
sound of ocean waves inside the temple premises.
Q8. What kind of food is available in Puri, and are there any local specialties?
A8: Puri offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options. The temple’s Mahaprasad, which is a special offering to Lord Jagannath, is very popular. Local specialties include dishes like Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice), Dalma (a lentil dish), and a variety of seafood.
Q9. Can I visit the beaches in Puri?
A9: Yes, Puri is home to several beautiful beaches. The Golden Beach is the most popular, known for its clean sands and calm waters. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and local seafood at the beachside stalls.
Q10. What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Puri?
A10: Popular souvenirs from Puri include Pattachitra paintings, which are traditional cloth-based scroll paintings, appliqué work, and various handicrafts made from seashells. You can also purchase items related to the Jagannath Temple, like miniature idols and religious artifacts.
