PURI

Puri, a coastal city in Odisha, India, is both a sacred pilgrimage site and a famous tourist attraction. Puri, known for its magnificent Jagannath Temple, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, attracts millions of visitors from around the world.

History
Puri has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, when King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva erected the Jagannath Temple. For ages, the city has served as a major pilgrimage destination, attracting pilgrims from all around India and beyond.

Places To Visit

1. Jagannath shrine: This 12th-century shrine is devoted to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu.

2. Puri Beach: A picturesque beach with golden beaches, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

• Gundicha Temple: The penultimate stop of the Rath Yatra event, where the deities spend seven days.
• Raghurajpur Artist Village is a heritage village known for Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf carvings, and traditional art forms.

Activities

• Temple tours: Visit Jagannath Temple and other neighboring temples.
• Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on Puri Beach.
• Rath Yatra festival: Watch the spectacular procession of Lord Jagannath’s chariot.
• Local cuisine: Sample traditional Odia dishes such as Mahaprasad and Dalma.

Shopping

• Puri Market: Discover native handicrafts, sand art, and religious items.
• Raghurajpur Artist Village: Buy wonderful handcrafted souvenirs and see traditional art forms.

Festival and Events

• Rath Yatra: A big event held in June or July that includes processions and festivities.
• Snana Yatra: This event commemorates Lord Jagannath’s bathing ceremony.
• Puri Beach Festival: A cultural event that highlights native music, dancing, and cuisine.

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar.

• By Train: Puri Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India.
• By Road: Puri is accessible via road from surrounding cities such as Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

Best time to visit
The best time to visit Puri is between October and March, when the weather is mild and perfect for touring. The Rath Yatra festival in June or July is also an important occasion, but it draws big numbers.

Safety & Security
Take standard precautions to guarantee your safety, such as not traveling alone at night and keeping valuables safe. Be cautious in crowded places, especially during celebrations.