One of the four 'Dhams'-Puri-is situated on the shoreline of the Bay of Bengal and is just 60 kms from Bhubaneshwar. This coastal town of Orissa is considered by Hindus to be the abode of Lord of the world, Jagannatha. Hence, it got the name Jagannatha Puri. Puri is blessed with Golden sand beaches for which it has been famous all over the world. Though life here revolves around the Jagannatha Temple, the place has been attracting tourists who love to swim in the sea and laze around on its golden sands. The beaches of Puri show divergent colours- calmness gives peace to mind while the crashing breakers reminds of the turbulent life within this calmness. The sunrays falling on seawater gives an illusion of a rainbow on water surface. This pilgrimage town is also the home of artisans and craftsmen who produce a wide range of unique handicrafts.
Location
60-km from Bhubaneswar, Orissa
Best time to visit
Proximity to the sea gives Puri an excellent coastal type climate, with temperatures ranging from 17 degrees in winters to 32 degrees during summers.
Attractions
Sri Jagannath Temple - The temple stands majestically on an elevated platform in the heart of the city and was built in the twelfth century by the Ganga King Chodagangadeva.
The beach - The wide and long beaches provide an excellent opportunity for the tourist to witness the colourful sunset and sunrise. One can also see the traditional fishermen in hundreds, plying their catamarans & sail boats and drawing into their nets a rich catch of Prawn, Pom fret ect.
Bada Danda - Known as the grand Road, this place is ideal for a leisurely stroll and shopping for souvenirs and momento es. The southern end of the beach has the Swargadwara, Gateway to heaven where one can pick seashell items miniature stone sculptures and woodcarvings.
Travel Tips
Beware of touts and the sweeping under currents while on the beach.
Shopping
The Ananda bazaar is the biggest food market of the world. The hand carved statuettes of the deities on wood, paintings, art & craftwork and hand woven cloth reminds of the old charm, which the shops have retained since ages. While walking down the shopping bazaar it is difficult to miss the delightful trinkets made from the seashells. The Patta- painting on cloth canvas and colourful applique work are worth taking home and they also make ideal gift items.
Excursions
Balighai : Just 8 Km away from the crowds of Puri, on the mouth of River Nuanai- Balighai has excellent beach and the Sea Turtle Research center.
Raghurajpur : This craftsmen's village is famous for Patta chitra or the patta paintings and is 14 Km from Puri.
Sakshigopal : The pilgrims to Puri visit the shrine of Lord Sakshigopal 20 Km from the city.
Ramgarh Lake : A huge artificial lake created by constructing a high bund amidst tree covered hills. While the temple of Jamwa Mata and the ruins of the old fort are some of its antiquities, its beautiful landscape, especially during in oils pools, makes it an idyllic picnic spot.
Chilika Lake : Situated southwest of Puri, Chilka is the largest fresh water lake in Asia. Chilka is also known as 'Honeymoon Island' and 'Breakfast Island'. One can enjoy boating on the shimmering blue waters and in leisure one can enjoy fishing. There are about 160 variety of fishes in the lake.
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