Puri

Introduction and history: Puri is one of oldest and important tourist destinations in Orissa, which is famous for the Lord Jagannath temple. Puri also hosts the site of the Govardhana matha, one of the four cardinal institutions established by Adi Shankaracharya. In 1903, Sri Yukteswar established an ashram in Puri. In summary it is an ancient city, having a lot of spiritual history.

What to see and when to go: The Temple of Lord Jagannath was built during the 12th century, by Chodaganga Deva sprawls for many kilometres around. It is the tallest temple (65 metres) in Orissa.In front of the main gate the monolithic pillar, called Aruna Stambha. The temple is mainly famous for its annual ‘Ratha Yatra’, when the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, are brought out of the temple, and placed in a chariot procession. There are also a number of holy tanks like Narendra, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga and Indradyumna. There are many Monasteries locally known as Mathas also of tourist interest. Puri beach is another major attraction. October to April is the best time to visit Puri.

Accommodation: Puri offers multiple accommodation facilities starting with luxurious resorts facing the beach. Budget accommodation is available starting as low as 350 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, which is 100 Kilometers away from Puri. It has a well connected railway station and national highway (NH-5) passing thro the place. For local travel taxis can be hired on demand.

Related links:
• Official information: http://puri.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.orissatourism.gov.in

See also (nearby places): Konark, Chilika, Bhubaneswar and Gopalpur Beach are nearby tourist attractions.