Puri is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, known for its ancient temples, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. Puri is also the abode of Lord Jagannath, the supreme deity of the Vaishnava tradition.
Looking for a spiritual pilgrimage, a relaxing vacation, or an adventurous getaway, Puri has something for everyone.
Best Puri Tourist Places and things to do in Puri, such as witnessing the grand Rath Yatra festival, exploring the Shree Jagannath Temple, and enjoying the sun and sand at Puri Beach, Chilika Lake.
Shree Jagannath Temple
Shree Jagannath Temple is one of the most sacred and majestic temples in India, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, the supreme deity of the Vaishnava tradition. The temple dates back to the 12th century and is one of the four holy places (Char Dham) for Hindus.
The temple has a grand entrance, a towering spire, intricate carvings, a sanctum sanctorum, and various shrines. The temple also hosts various rituals and festivals, such as the daily aartis, the prasad distribution, and the famous Rath Yatra (chariot procession) that attracts millions of devotees every year.
Puri Beach
Puri Beach is one of the most beautiful and lively beaches in Odisha, located along the Bay of Bengal. The beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Things to do in Puri Beach
There are many things to do at Puri Beach that can make your visit enjoyable and memorable.
- Take a dip in the sea and enjoy the waves. The water is warm and refreshing, and you can swim, surf, or splash around. Be careful of the currents and tides, and follow the safety instructions of the lifeguards.
- Watch the sunrise and sunset at Puri Golden Beach. The beach offers a stunning view of the sun rising and setting over the horizon, creating a magical spectacle of colors and light. Capture some amazing photos and videos of the scenery.
- Try out various water sports such as surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and more. The beach has several operators that offer these activities for a reasonable price.
Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, located about 50 km from Puri. The lake is a unique and diverse ecosystem that hosts a variety of flora and fauna.
Find dolphins, birds, crabs, prawns, turtles, fish, and plants in and around the lake. You can also visit some of the places and activities that can be explored at the lake, such as the Nalabana Island (bird sanctuary), the Kalijai Island (temple), the Satapada (dolphin site), and boating.
Things to do in Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers many things to do for visitors.
- Boating: Hire a boat from any of the nearby towns or villages and explore the lake at your own pace. See the various islands, wildlife, and scenery that the lake has to offer.
- Birdwatching: Birdwatching at various spots around the lake, such as Nalabana Island, Mangalajodi, Kalijai Temple, and more. See thousands of migratory and resident birds that flock to the lake during winter.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing at Chilika Lake, which is known for its rich fishery resources. Catch various types of fish, such as prawns, crabs, mackerels, mullets, and more.
- Temple Visits: The temples that are located on or near the lake, such as the Kalijai Temple, the Narasimha Temple, the Raghurajpur Temple, and more.
The best places to go and things to do in Puri. Puri is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the aroma of spirituality, the thrill of adventure, and the romance of solitude. Puri is a place where you can create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Plan your trip to Puri today and enjoy its beauty and culture.