Explore the Shree Jagannath Temple and encounter the old ways of life around the temple complex

Puri is famous for its sea beach and the Jagannath Temple. An ideal destination for a weekend escape, Puri is one of the most sought after tourist spots of India. The city also houses the World Heritage Sun Temple. Read on for more information.

Puri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimages of Hindu. With the historic antiques and the majestic architectures, this coastal city of Odisha attracts a large number of tourists. It is a popular weekend getaways for neighbouring state dwellers. Puri is a fast developing city of Odisha and it is bestowed with all the virtues which will make your holiday a memorable one. Puri welcomes both the pilgrims and fun seekers with open arms. It is a temple town and the Shree Jagannath Temple is a source of happiness to many lives. With brightly painted houses and some colonial buildings, the city is narrowly packed. Puri has its own charm.

Originally it was a forested area, where a tribal group, Sabaras used to dwell. They worshipped Jagannath as Nilamadhab. Later, Brahmins adopted the deity. Puri is rich in culture and tradition. The beautiful and huge Jagannath Temple is a treat to the visitor's eyes. Here, the Jagannath, Balaram and goddess Subhadra are worshipped. Unlike other temples in India where idols are made of stones, here the deity's idols are made of wood. The temple was constructed in the 12th century. The annual Rath Yatra is the major attraction of the place. Thousands and Thousands of devotees and general tourists visit Puri during this festival time. Every year this festival is held and it is a grand celebration of Odisha. The three deities are hauled on huge and ornamented temple cars or chariots to Gundicha Temple ( 3 km away from the main temple).

Puri Beach festival is a feast for the art lovers. The beach festival is held on the beautiful Swargadwara, the Puri beach. The Puri Beach festival is organised by Hotel and Restaurant Association of India co-sponsored by Government of India and the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata. The performances of classical dance and music, the folk dances of India, the exhibition of handicrafts, handloom and sand art makes the festival a delightful one.

The World Heritage Site Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, Gundicha Temple, District Museum Puri, Chandrabhaga Sea Beach, Swargadwara and Mausi Ma temple are some of the must-visit places in Puri.

The sea beaches of Puri are within walking distances but tourists mostly prefer cycle-rickshaws. Most of the best hotels are located near Swargadwara beach. The city has accommodations to suits every traveller's pocket. If you want to stay near the temple, Dharmashalas are available. During Rath Yatra, Dol Purnima (Holi) and Jhulan festival it is always recommended to book room before reaching the place. Now, there are some dozens of Mathhs ( religious institutions) around the temple, while taking a walk around them you will encounter the old ways of life. The houses around the temple complex are built in a peculiar style with religious and stone carvings on the walls. However, Puri is a great place to fulfil your religious pursuits with a fun filled holiday. A go-to destination for any kind of travellers. October to March is the best time to explore Puri. For more details like how to reach and where to stay, you can check Puri Tourism.

Sandeep is an experienced travel consultant, who enjoys travelling and loves to write about the destinations he has been to and shares his experience. He also writes about travel tips, world's best holiday destinations, best hotels in a destination,