Puri is a coastal city in Odisha along the Bay of Bengal, just 60 kilometers from the capital. Sri Kshetra and Sri Jagannatha Dhama are the two other names of Puri. There are many touristy spots, but the city is popular for its beaches and holy worshipers. Puri offers you a unique combination of both sightseeing spots and religious places.
If you plan to visit Puri, you will find many places to explore. If you need clarification about where to start and what to visit, we have solved your problem. Here, we have mentioned the best places to visit in Puri. So, learn about each and mark your favorite as your next travel destination.
Top 9 Places to Visit in Puri
Below are the top places to visit in Puri; let's learn about each of them here:
Shree Jagannath Temple
It is a magnificent temple dedicated to the Lord of the Universe. His sister (Goddess Subhadra) and brother (Lord Balabhadra) are worshipped in the temple. The temple was built in the 12th century, but till the 16th century, it has undergone various changes. Now, the temple is standing on a raised platform surrounded by two walls. The inner wall is called Kuruma Bheda, and the outer wall is called Meghnad Pachira. The temple has four gates; Singhadwara is the main gate in the east.
- Timings: From 5 am to 11 pm
- Location: Temple Road, Puri, Odisha 752001, India
Puri Beach
Your visit to Puri will only be complete with a visit to the Puri beach. The beach remains crowded all over the year. Devotees visiting the Shree Jagannath Temple always come to the beach. The roaring waves and clean sandy shore make this beach an incredible place to visit. Most of the tourists visit the beach during sunset and sunrise. The Puri Beach Festival is organized in November, a major attraction for travelers.
- Timings: The best time to visit is 9 am to 2 pm
- Location: Puri, Odisha 752001, India
Raghurajpur Artist Village
It is a heritage crafts village which has more than 120 houses of the artists. Pattachitra is the most famous form of art you will find here. It combines two words: patta, which means cloth, and Chitra, which means painting. So, the pattachitra means painting on the cloth. The paintings you will find here are based on the mythical and religious themes. Artists also paint on the dried palm leaves. There you can also buy toys made of stones.
- Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
- Location: Raghurajpur, Jagannathballava, Odisha 752012, India
Chilika Lake
It is located in three districts (Ganjam, Uri, and Khordha) and is the largest salt-water lagoon in Asia. A narrow neckline separates the lake from the Bay of Bengal. Its many small islands attract tourists due to their lush greenery. It is just 50 kilometers away from Puri. You must visit the lake during winter (November to February) to enjoy the beauty of flocks.
- Timings: Can visit anytime
- Location: Chilika, Satapada, Khordha District, Puri 752001, India
Narendra Tank
It is one of the largest tanks you will find in Odisha. It was built during the 15th century and is considered a holy place. You can find so many small and big temples in the tank's surroundings. Chandana Mandapa is a small temple situated in the middle of the lake on the island. You must visit this place in June and July as various religious activities occur.
- Timings: 8 am to 7 pm
- Location: Puri, Odisha 752001, India
Markandeshwar Temple
It is one of the holy temples of Puri and is situated near the Bindu Sagar. The temple was constructed in the 13th century. In front of the temple, you will find a statue of Natraj which has 10 arms. Also, the images of Goddess Parvati, Sri Ganesh, and Lord Muruga are carved in the temple. The temple owns about fifty-two sacred shrines of Lord Shiva.
- Timings: 5 am to 12 pm; from 4 pm to 9 pm
- Location: Mishra Sahi Rd, Puri, Odisha 752001
Swargadwar Beach
Hindus visit this beach and dip into the sea as people think Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu used to take baths there. Also, it is a religious spot for the Hindus. Swargadwar means a gateway to heaven. Also, a dip into this water is believed to open a way to heaven. Apart from these myths, the natural beauty of this beach is stunning and intact and attracts thousands of travelers from around the globe.
- Timings: 24 hours
- Location: Swargadwar Rd, Puri, Odisha 752001, India
Baliharachandi Beach
It is quiet and an off-beat place to explore in the region. If you want to avoid visiting a loud or bustling place, then you must explore the beauty of this beautiful place. The sandy sea shells add a lot to the beauty of this peaceful beach. Remember that there must be more food stalls so you may need better food there. The beach is a little away from the city, but you must stop there to enjoy a sunset or sunrise. Accommodations are available near the beach.
- Timings: 24 hours; 7 am to 2 pm is the best time
- Location: Sipasurubili, Odisha 752002, Puri, India
Nalbana Bird Sanctuary
The bird sanctuary is a part of Chilika Lake; there, you can find unique species of reptiles and birds. You will find trees and lush green farms there. The birds migrate there throughout the years. It is heaven for the birdwatchers. Many people come here and capture the memories. More than 180 species of birds visit this place. You can find every bird, from pink storks to Goliath herons. Sandpipers, black-headed ibis, flamingos, and black-tailed godwits are the other species you can find there. You can visit this sanctuary any time of the year.
- Timings: Any time/ 24 hours
- Location: Nalaban, Odisha 752030, India
Conclusion:
Puri is the home of Lord Jagannatha and is one of India's most popular pilgrimage sites. The city owns so many temples which are popular for their amazing architecture. Besides that, the rich history, cultural villages, and stunning beaches make this place popular. So, if you plan to explore the city, you will find many places to explore, and each has charm!
