Puri is a coastal town located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is a famous pilgrimage site and attracts tourists from all over the world due to its historical and cultural significance. Puri is also known for its scenic beaches and rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will discuss in detail about Puri and its tourist information.

History and Culture:

Puri has a rich cultural heritage and is considered to be one of the oldest cities in India. The city has been ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Puri is famous for the Jagannath Temple, which is one of the four holiest shrines in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is known for its annual Rath Yatra, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world.

Tourist Attractions:

  1. Jagannath Temple: The Jagannath Temple is the most popular tourist attraction in Puri. It is a massive temple complex that is spread over an area of 400,000 square feet. The temple is known for its annual Rath Yatra, which takes place in June or July every year.
  2. Puri Beach: Puri Beach is a scenic beach that is located on the Bay of Bengal. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to relax and unwind. The beach is also known for its water sports activities such as surfing and jet skiing.
  3. Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake is the largest saltwater lake in India and is located near Puri. It is a popular destination for bird watching and is home to a wide variety of migratory birds.
  4. Konark Sun Temple: The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located near Puri. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
  5. Raghurajpur Artist Village: Raghurajpur is a small village near Puri that is known for its Pattachitra paintings. These paintings are made on cloth or palm leaf and depict mythological stories and characters.

How to Reach:

Puri is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 60 km from Puri. The city has a railway station, Puri Railway Station, which is connected to major cities in India. Puri is also well connected by road, with buses and taxis available from Bhubaneswar and other nearby cities.

Puri

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Puri is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and mild. During this time, the temperature ranges between 15°C and 30°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, tourists can also visit Puri during the monsoon season (June to September) to witness the lush greenery and waterfalls in and around the city.

Accommodation:

Puri has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. There are luxury hotels, resorts, budget hotels, and guesthouses available in and around the city. Some of the popular hotels in Puri are Mayfair Waves, Toshali Sands, and Puri Beach Resort.

Food:

Puri is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of local and regional flavors. Some of the popular dishes of Puri are:

  1. Khaja: It is a popular sweet dish made from wheat flour and sugar syrup.
  2. Dalma: It is a vegetable and lentil stew, which is a staple food in Odisha.
  3. Macha Ghanta: It is a seafood curry made with fish, prawns, and vegetables.
  4. Chhena Poda: It is a famous dessert made from cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom.
  5. Pitha: It is a type of pancake that is made with rice flour and stuffed with sweet or savory fillings.

Apart from these, tourists can also try street food in Puri, which includes chaat, samosas, and vadas.

Conclusion || Puri

Puri is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the rich cultural heritage of India. From the famous Jagannath Temple to the scenic beaches and the Konark Sun Temple, there is something for everyone in Puri. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, making it a food lover’s paradise. So, pack your bags and head to Puri for an unforgettable holiday experience.