Welcome to Puri, a breathtaking destination on the east coast of India that will leave you spellbound! Known for its magnificent beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant culture, Puri is the perfect place to unwind and experience the true essence of India.
From the serene Puri Beach to the historic Jagannath Temple, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Puri by exploring its local markets and indulging in delicious street food. Or, simply relax and soak up the sun on the golden sands of its beaches.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Puri has it all. With its warm hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and cultural heritage, Puri promises to be an unforgettable travel experience.
So why wait? Book your trip to Puri today and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in India!
About Puri
Puri is a historic city located on the Bay of Bengal in the state of Odisha, India. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. The city has a population of around 200,000 people and is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Puri has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The city was once the capital of the Kalinga kingdom and was ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, including the Mauryas, the Guptas, and the Eastern Gangas. During this time, Puri developed into a center of art, culture, and religion, with many magnificent temples and palaces built in the city.
One of the most famous landmarks in Puri is the Jagannath Temple, which was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is a major pilgrimage site and attracts millions of devotees every year during the annual Rath Yatra festival.
Puri was also an important center of learning and education during the medieval period, with many famous scholars and philosophers living and working in the city. Today, Puri is a bustling city that is home to a thriving arts and crafts industry, as well as a vibrant tourism sector that supports the local economy.
In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Puri is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The city is a popular destination for eco-tourists, birdwatchers, and nature lovers, who come to explore the many parks and reserves in the area.
Overall, Puri is a city with a rich and vibrant history that is both fascinating and inspiring. Whether you are interested in art, culture, religion, or nature, Puri is a destination that offers something for everyone.
Architecture of Puri
The architecture of Puri is a blend of ancient and modern styles that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse influences over the centuries. Puri is best known for its magnificent temples, which showcase some of the finest examples of classical Odishan architecture.
The most famous temple in Puri is the Jagannath Temple, which is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. The temple is built in the shape of a pyramid and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various gods and goddesses. The temple also features a towering spire that rises high above the city skyline and can be seen from miles away.
Another famous temple in Puri is the Gundicha Temple, which is located in the heart of the city. This temple is known for its unique architecture, which features a series of concentric squares and circles that symbolize the universe. The temple also features a beautiful garden and a pond, which add to its serene and peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to its temples, Puri is also known for its beautiful palaces and mansions, which showcase a blend of Indian and European architectural styles. The most famous of these is the Puri Beach Palace, which was built in the 19th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Finally, Puri is also home to many modern buildings and structures that reflect the city’s growing importance as a cultural and economic center. These include modern hotels, shopping malls, and other commercial buildings that blend seamlessly with the city’s historic architecture.
Overall, the architecture of Puri is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern styles that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse influences over the centuries. Whether you are interested in art, history, or architecture, Puri is a destination that offers something for everyone.
40 Places to Visit in Puri
- Jagannath Temple – A world-famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is a major pilgrimage site and one of the four sacred dhams in Hinduism.
- Gundicha Temple – A beautiful temple located in the heart of Puri, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is associated with the annual Rath Yatra festival.
- Puri Beach – A popular beach destination in Puri, known for its soft sand and beautiful sunrises.
- Chilika Lake – A vast, brackish water lagoon known for its rich biodiversity, migratory birds, and beautiful islands.
- Konark Sun Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 35 kilometers from Puri, known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings.
- Ramchandi Beach – A scenic beach located about 7 kilometers from Puri, known for its beautiful sunset views.
- Balighai Beach – A quiet and secluded beach located about 8 kilometers from Puri, known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.
- Pipili Village – A small village located about 18 kilometers from Puri, known for its beautiful applique work and handicrafts.
- Raghurajpur Art Village – A small village located about 14 kilometers from Puri, known for its beautiful Pattachitra paintings and other traditional art forms.
- Lokanath Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Narendra Tank – A beautiful lake located in the heart of Puri, known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere.
- Markandesvara Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Swargadwar Beach – A beautiful beach located in Puri, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the sea.
- Sudarshan Craft Museum – A museum in Puri that showcases the traditional art and crafts of the region.
- Atharnala Bridge – A beautiful bridge located in Puri, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful views.
- Chaitanya Matha – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Vimala Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to the goddess Vimala.
- Alarnatha Temple – A beautiful temple located about 25 kilometers from Puri, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Sakshi Gopal Temple – A beautiful temple located about 20 kilometers from Puri, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Daria Hanuman Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Bauli Matha – A beautiful monastery located in Puri, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
- Brahmagiri – A small town located about 25 kilometers from Puri, known for its beautiful temples and natural beauty.
- Mahodadhi Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
- Chandrabhaga Beach – A scenic beach located about 30 kilometers from Puri, known for its beautiful sunrises and natural beauty.
- Baleshwar Beach – A beautiful beach located about 15 kilometers from Puri, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views.
- Gopinath Temple – A beautiful temple located in Puri, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Darshan Hall Museum – A museum in Puri that showcases the history and culture of the city.
- Puri Museum – A museum in Puri that showcases the art and crafts of the region.
- Govardhana Matha
- Sudarsana Deula Temple
- Sakhigopal Market
- Art Vision Gallery
- Puri Light House
- Baliharachandi Temple
- Pipili Handicraft Village
- Raghunandan Library
- Lakshmi Temple
- Kausalya Ganga
- Satyabadi
- Konark Beach
These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Puri. Whether you are interested in art, history, religion, or nature, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Make an one day Sightseeing Trip plan in Puri
Morning:
- Visit the Jagannath Temple: This is one of the most famous temples in Puri and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. It is also one of the Char Dhams or the four most sacred places for Hindus. It is recommended to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the morning aarti.
- Take a stroll on the Puri Beach: The beach is located close to the Jagannath Temple and is a popular spot for tourists. Take a walk along the beach, enjoy the sunrise, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
- Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional breakfast of idli, dosa, vada, or sambar at one of the local restaurants near the temple or beach.
Afternoon:
4. Visit the Konark Sun Temple: The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located about 35 km from Puri. It is dedicated to the Sun God and is a stunning example of ancient architecture.
- Lunch: Stop for lunch at a local restaurant near the Sun Temple and try some of the delicious local dishes such as prawn curry, fish fry, or crab masala.
Evening:
6. Return to Puri: Head back to Puri and visit the Raghurajpur Artist Village. This village is famous for its traditional art and handicrafts such as pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, and wooden toys.
- Shopping: After visiting the Raghurajpur Artist Village, head to the Puri market and shop for souvenirs such as seashell jewelry, handicrafts, and textiles.
- Dinner: Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants near the beach.
Night:
9. Relax at your hotel: After a long day of sightseeing, relax at your hotel and get a good night’s sleep.
Note: Please check the latest travel guidelines and protocols related to COVID-19 before planning your trip to Puri.
Weather and Best time to visit Puri
Puri is a popular coastal city located in the state of Odisha in India. The city experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Puri is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Here is a detailed overview of the weather conditions in Puri throughout the year:
- Summer (April to June): The summer months in Puri are hot and humid with temperatures ranging between 27°C to 42°C. It can be quite uncomfortable to travel during this time, especially during the day.
- Monsoon (July to September): Puri receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which starts from July and lasts until September. Although the rain can be heavy, the weather is relatively cooler with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C.
- Winter (October to March): The winter months in Puri are pleasant with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 30°C. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach activities.
Overall, the best time to visit Puri is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with tourists. However, if you don’t mind the rain, you can also plan a visit during the monsoon season when the city is lush green and picturesque.
How To Reach Puri
Puri is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Odisha in India. The city is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. Here are the different ways to reach Puri:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Puri is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is located approximately 60 km away from Puri. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri.
- By Train: Puri has a railway station that is well-connected to major cities in India. The Puri Railway Station is located in the heart of the city and is serviced by several express and passenger trains.
- By Road: Puri is well-connected to major cities in Odisha and neighboring states through a network of state and national highways. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Puri from cities like Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.
- By Sea: Puri also has a sea port, which is located near the city center. However, there are currently no scheduled passenger services available at the port, and it is primarily used for cargo transportation.
Once you reach Puri, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to explore the city and its many attractions. You can also rent a bike or scooter to explore the city at your own pace.
Accommodation options in Puri
Puri is a popular tourist destination in Odisha, and there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options available in Puri:
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Puri has several luxury hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. These hotels are usually located near the beach and offer stunning views of the sea. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Puri include Mayfair Waves, The Hans Coco Palms, and Toshali Sands.
- Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: There are plenty of budget hotels and guesthouses in Puri that offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. These hotels are usually located in the city center and are perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Some of the popular budget hotels in Puri include Hotel Gajapati, Hotel Santana, and Hotel Sonar Bangla.
- Homestays and Guesthouses: If you are looking for a more authentic and personalized experience, you can opt for homestays and guesthouses in Puri. These accommodations are usually run by local families and offer a glimpse into the local way of life. Some popular homestays and guesthouses in Puri include Hotel Shakti International, OYO 22689 Shree Jagannath Palace, and OYO 74274 The Blue Lily.
- Beach Huts and Tents: For a unique and adventurous experience, you can opt for beach huts or tents that are available on the beaches of Puri. These accommodations offer a rustic experience and are perfect for travelers who want to get closer to nature. Some popular beach huts and tents in Puri include Hotel Seagull, Coco Shells, and Beach Huts Puri.
Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available in Puri, and you can choose one that suits your budget and preferences. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Puri As per users Reviews and Ratings
Based on user reviews and ratings, here is a brief overview of the top 10 hotels to stay in Puri:
- Mayfair Waves: This luxury hotel is located near the Puri beach and offers world-class amenities and services. It has a rooftop pool, a spa, and several dining options. Users have rated this hotel highly for its excellent location, attentive staff, and luxurious rooms.
- The Hans Coco Palms: This is another luxury hotel located near the Puri beach. It has a large outdoor pool, a spa, and several dining options. Users have praised this hotel for its beautiful location, friendly staff, and comfortable rooms.
- Toshali Sands: This is a luxury resort located near the Balighai beach in Puri. It has several outdoor pools, a spa, and a range of dining options. Users have rated this resort highly for its peaceful location, spacious rooms, and excellent service.
- Hotel Gajapati: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Puri and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Users have praised this hotel for its excellent location, helpful staff, and budget-friendly prices.
- Hotel Shakti International: This is a mid-range hotel located near the Puri beach. It offers clean and comfortable rooms and has several dining options. Users have rated this hotel highly for its excellent location, friendly staff, and good food.
- OYO 22689 Shree Jagannath Palace: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Puri and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Users have praised this hotel for its excellent location, good service, and budget-friendly prices.
- OYO 74274 The Blue Lily: This budget hotel is located near the Puri beach and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Users have rated this hotel highly for its excellent location, helpful staff, and budget-friendly prices.
- Coco Shells: This is a beachfront property that offers beach huts and tents for a unique and rustic experience. Users have praised this property for its beautiful location, friendly staff, and unique accommodations.
- Hotel Sea Gull: This is a mid-range hotel located near the Puri beach. It offers clean and comfortable rooms and has a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the sea. Users have rated this hotel highly for its excellent location, good food, and friendly staff.
- Hotel Sonar Bangla: This is a mid-range hotel located near the Puri beach. It offers clean and comfortable rooms and has a range of dining options. Users have praised this hotel for its excellent location, good food, and friendly staff.
Where Can I stay in Puri free of Cost
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to find free accommodation in Puri, or anywhere else for that matter, as providing accommodation involves certain costs like maintenance, staff, and utilities, which need to be covered. However, there are some options that can help you reduce your accommodation costs:
- Dharamshalas: Dharamshalas are simple guesthouses run by religious institutions or charities. They offer basic amenities like a bed and bathroom at very low rates, and some even offer free accommodation to travelers. However, you will have to abide by the rules and regulations of the institution.
- Couchsurfing: Couchsurfing is a hospitality exchange platform where travelers can find hosts who are willing to provide a free place to stay. It’s a great way to meet locals and experience the local culture. However, it’s important to verify the host’s profile and reviews before making a booking.
- Volunteer programs: There are several organizations that offer volunteer programs in Puri. In exchange for your time and skills, they offer free accommodation and sometimes even meals. This is a great way to give back to the community while also reducing your accommodation costs.
- Camping: If you have your own camping gear, you can camp on some of the beaches in Puri for a small fee. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors while also keeping your costs low.
Keep in mind that free or very cheap accommodation options may not always be comfortable or secure, and it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a booking.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Puri
Puri is a popular tourist destination in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is famous for its ancient temples, beautiful beaches, and cultural heritage. Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Puri:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Puri is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains can disrupt your travel plans.
- Accommodation: Puri has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
- Transportation: Puri is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar, which is about 60 km from Puri. There are regular trains and buses from major cities in India to Puri.
- Temple etiquette: Puri is home to the famous Jagannath Temple, which is one of the four major pilgrimage sites for Hindus. If you plan to visit the temple, make sure you dress modestly and remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.
- Beach safety: Puri is known for its beautiful beaches, but it is important to exercise caution while swimming. The sea can be rough, and there are strong currents, so it is advisable to swim only in designated areas under the supervision of a lifeguard.
- Local cuisine: Puri is famous for its delicious seafood and street food. But be careful while trying street food and make sure it is cooked properly to avoid getting sick.
- Local customs: Odisha has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Make sure you dress appropriately and behave respectfully towards the locals.
- Safety and security: Puri is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take precautions like avoiding dark and isolated areas, keeping your valuables safe, and being aware of your surroundings.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Puri.
Food To Eat in Puri
Puri is known for its delectable seafood and street food. Here are some must-try dishes when in Puri:
- Khaja: Khaja is a sweet made of flour, sugar, and ghee. It is a popular sweet in Puri and is often served as prasad at the Jagannath Temple.
- Dalma: Dalma is a traditional Odia dish made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served with rice and is a staple dish in Puri.
- Macha Bhaja: Macha Bhaja is a dish made with fried fish. It is usually served as a snack and is a popular street food in Puri.
- Chenna Poda: Chenna Poda is a traditional Odia dessert made with cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. It is baked until it turns golden brown and has a caramelized texture.
- Pakhala: Pakhala is a traditional Odia dish made with rice and water. It is usually served with fried fish, papad, and a variety of side dishes.
- Crab Curry: Crab Curry is a popular seafood dish in Puri. It is made with fresh crabs, spices, and coconut milk and is best enjoyed with rice.
- Puri Bhaji: Puri Bhaji is a popular breakfast dish in Puri. It consists of deep-fried puris (Indian bread) served with a spicy potato curry.
- Bara: Bara is a popular street food in Puri made with black gram lentils. It is usually served with a chutney made with mint and coriander leaves.
By trying out these delicious dishes, you can get a taste of the local cuisine and experience the unique flavors of Puri.
Best Places for Shopping in Puri
Puri is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Puri:
- Puri Beach Market: The Puri Beach Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists. You can find a variety of handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs here. Make sure to bargain for the best prices.
- Raghurajpur Artist Village: Raghurajpur is a small village near Puri known for its traditional Pattachitra paintings. You can visit the village and buy these beautiful paintings directly from the artists.
- Pipli Village: Pipli is a small village near Puri famous for its applique work. You can find a variety of handcrafted items like umbrellas, wall hangings, and bags here.
- Sudarshan Crafts Museum: The Sudarshan Crafts Museum in Puri is a great place to buy traditional Odia handicrafts. You can find a variety of items like stone carvings, wooden toys, and palm leaf paintings here.
- Market Road: Market Road is a popular shopping destination in Puri. You can find a variety of items like textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs here. Make sure to bargain for the best prices.
- Puri Handloom Emporium: The Puri Handloom Emporium is a government-run store that sells traditional Odia textiles like sarees and dhotis. You can find a variety of colors and designs here.
By shopping at these places, you can take home some beautiful handicrafts and textiles that are unique to Puri and Odisha.
Things you Can Buy as a Tourist From Puri
Puri is a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Here are some things that you should consider buying as a tourist from Puri:
- Pattachitra Paintings: Pattachitra paintings are a traditional art form of Odisha, and they are known for their intricate designs and bright colors. You can find these beautiful paintings in Puri and nearby Raghurajpur village.
- Odia Handicrafts: Puri and Odisha are known for their beautiful handicrafts made from wood, stone, and other materials. You can find a variety of handcrafted items like wooden toys, stone carvings, and palm leaf paintings.
- Odia Textiles: Odisha is famous for its textiles, especially its sarees and dhotis. You can find a variety of colorful and intricately designed textiles in Puri and nearby places.
- Sea Shells: Puri is a beach town, and you can find a variety of beautiful sea shells on the beach. These make for great souvenirs and can be used for decoration.
- Tribal Jewelry: Odisha is home to many tribal communities, and you can find beautiful tribal jewelry made from materials like beads and silver.
- Applique Work: Pipli village near Puri is famous for its applique work. You can find a variety of handcrafted items like umbrellas, wall hangings, and bags.
By buying these traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, you can take home a piece of Puri and Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
Nightlife in Puri
Puri is not known for its nightlife as it is a religious and cultural destination, and alcohol consumption is not allowed in the town due to its proximity to the Jagannath Temple. However, there are a few places where you can enjoy some nightlife in Puri:
- Sea Beach: The sea beach in Puri is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You can enjoy a walk on the beach or sit by the sea and enjoy the cool breeze.
- Hotels and Resorts: Many hotels and resorts in Puri have their bars and lounges where you can enjoy a drink and some music. However, alcohol consumption is limited to the hotel or resort premises only.
- Cafes and Restaurants: There are several cafes and restaurants in Puri where you can enjoy a quiet evening with friends or family. You can also try some delicious local food while enjoying the ambiance.
- Jagannath Temple: The Jagannath Temple in Puri is a must-visit attraction, and you can attend the evening aarti ceremony here. The temple is beautifully lit up at night, and you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Cultural Shows: Many hotels and resorts in Puri organize cultural shows in the evening, where you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
Although Puri is not known for its nightlife, you can still enjoy some of the town’s offerings and have a good time.
Activities and Things to do in Puri
Puri, a popular pilgrimage destination in Odisha, offers several activities and things to do for tourists. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Puri:
- Visit Jagannath Temple: The Jagannath Temple is one of the most famous temples in India and is the main attraction in Puri. Visit the temple, attend the aarti, and witness the unique rituals and customs.
- Relax on Puri Beach: Puri Beach is one of the most popular beaches in India. Spend some time relaxing on the beach, enjoy a camel ride, and try some local snacks.
- Explore Konark Sun Temple: The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located near Puri. Explore the temple’s architecture and marvel at the intricate carvings.
- Raghurajpur Artist Village: Visit the Raghurajpur Artist Village, where you can see the traditional Pattachitra paintings being made and buy some souvenirs.
- Try Odia Cuisine: Odisha has a unique cuisine, and Puri is no exception. Try some local dishes like fish curry, chenna poda, and rasgulla.
- Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, is located near Puri. Take a boat ride on the lake, watch migratory birds, and explore nearby islands.
- Visit Pipli Village: Pipli village is famous for its applique work. You can buy some beautiful handcrafted items like umbrellas, wall hangings, and bags.
- Sudarshan Crafts Museum: Visit the Sudarshan Crafts Museum, which showcases the traditional handicrafts of Odisha.
By indulging in these activities, you can experience Puri’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Lesser Known facts about Puri
Puri, located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is a popular tourist destination known for its Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach. Here are some lesser-known facts about Puri:
- Puri is one of the four holy pilgrimage sites (Char Dham) for Hindus, the other three being Badrinath, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram.
- The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the tallest temples in India, with a height of about 214 feet.
- The temple flag atop the Jagannath Temple is said to flap in the opposite direction of the wind. This phenomenon is believed to be a divine miracle.
- The Puri Beach is one of the few beaches in the world where you can witness the sunrise and the sunset at the same spot.
- The sand on Puri Beach is said to have medicinal properties and is used to cure various ailments.
- The Ratha Yatra festival, which takes place annually in Puri, is one of the largest chariot festivals in the world, and millions of people attend it every year.
- The Raghurajpur Artist Village near Puri is home to more than 300 artists who specialize in Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, and other traditional art forms.
- Puri is also known for its unique style of handloom sarees called the Sambalpuri sarees, which are famous for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Puri is home to the Sudarshan Crafts Museum, which houses a large collection of traditional handicrafts of Odisha.
- Puri is also a popular destination for eco-tourism, with several wildlife sanctuaries and reserves located nearby, such as the Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary and Chilika Lake.
These lesser-known facts about Puri add to the town’s charm and make it an even more fascinating destination to visit.
FAQ about Puri
Here are some frequently asked questions about Puri:
What is the best time to visit Puri?
- The best time to visit Puri is between November and February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
What is the distance between Puri and Bhubaneswar?
- Puri is about 60 km away from Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha.
How can I reach Puri?
- Puri is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport, which is about 60 km away. Puri also has a railway station, and several trains connect it to major cities in India.
Is it safe to visit Puri?
- Yes, Puri is a safe place to visit. However, like any other tourist destination, tourists should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.
What are the popular tourist attractions in Puri?
- The popular tourist attractions in Puri are the Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Konark Sun Temple, Raghurajpur Artist Village, and Chilika Lake.
What is the dress code to visit the Jagannath Temple?
- Visitors to the Jagannath Temple are required to dress modestly and cover their heads. Men are not allowed to wear shirts, and women are not allowed to wear sarees or any other dress that covers their head.
What is the Ratha Yatra festival?
- The Ratha Yatra festival is an annual festival held in Puri, during which the deities from the Jagannath Temple are taken out in a grand procession on chariots. The festival is attended by millions of people from all over the world.
What are the famous food items in Puri?
- Some of the famous food items in Puri are fish curry, chenna poda, rasgulla, dahibara-aludum, and khaja.
Is photography allowed inside the Jagannath Temple?
- No, photography is not allowed inside the Jagannath Temple.
What are some activities to do in Puri?
- Some activities to do in Puri are visiting the Jagannath Temple, relaxing on Puri Beach, exploring Konark Sun Temple, trying Odia cuisine, and visiting the Raghurajpur Artist Village.
