Shri Jagannath Puri Temple: Best Divine Journey to the Abode of the Lord of the Universe

Overview

Shri Jagannath Puri Temple, located in the coastal town of Puri in Odisha, is one of the most revered and ancient Hindu temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is a significant part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, which every devout Hindu aspires to undertake in their lifetime. The temple’s grandeur, spiritual significance, and rich history make it a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike. One Day Jagannath Puri Sightseeing Trip By Private Cab

Built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, the Jagannath Temple is an architectural marvel and a center of worship that has been continuously in use for over a millennium. The temple complex is vast, covering an area of over 400,000 square feet, and is surrounded by a high fortified wall. The main shrine, known as the ‘Vimana,’ towers over the complex at a height of 214 feet, making it visible from miles around. Nandankanan Zoological Park: Famous Wildlife Haven in the Heart of Odisha

The temple is famous for the annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, which attracts millions of devotees from around the world. During this festival, the idols of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, are taken out of the temple and placed in massive, elaborately decorated chariots. These chariots are then pulled through the streets of Puri by devotees, symbolizing the journey of the deities to their aunt’s house.

Location of Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

The Jagannath Temple is situated in the heart of Puri, a coastal city in the state of Odisha. The temple is easily accessible from various parts of the country and is well-connected by road, rail, and air.

The exact address is:
Shri Jagannath Temple
Grand Road, Puri, Odisha – 752001

Puri is located approximately 60 kilometers from the state capital, Bhubaneswar, making it a convenient destination for pilgrims and tourists.

Time/Entry Fees of Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

Shri Jagannath Puri Temple is open to visitors throughout the year, with specific timings for darshan (viewing of the deities) and rituals. The temple follows a strict schedule for its daily rituals, which are performed with great devotion and adherence to tradition.

• Timings:
• The temple opens early in the morning at 5:00 AM with the Mangala Aarti.
• The temple closes at 11:00 PM after the Pahuda ritual (putting the deities to bed).
• Darshan is allowed at specific times between the various rituals.
• Entry Fees:
• Entry to the Jagannath Temple is free for all devotees.
• However, there are specific charges for certain rituals, pujas, and offerings, which vary based on the services you wish to avail.

Please note that the temple strictly prohibits the entry of non-Hindus. There is a viewing platform, the ‘Chakra Narayan’ located near the temple, from where non-Hindus can get a view of the temple complex.

How to Reach Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

By Air:
The nearest airport to Puri is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. The airport has regular flights connecting it to major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri. The drive from the airport to the temple takes about 1.5 hours.

By Rail:
Puri Railway Station is well-connected with major cities across India, including New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. The station is located just 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple, and you can easily reach the temple by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw. There are also frequent train services between Puri and Bhubaneswar, making it convenient for visitors.

By Road:
Puri is well-connected by road, and the NH316 (Bhubaneswar-Puri road) is the most commonly used route for travelers coming from Bhubaneswar. The journey by road from Bhubaneswar to Puri takes about 1.5 hours. State buses, private buses, and taxis are available from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other nearby cities. The bus stand in Puri is located close to the temple, making it easy for visitors to reach.

Things to Do at Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

1. Attend the Rath Yatra:
   The Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, is the most significant event at the Jagannath Temple. Held annually in the month of June or July, it is a grand spectacle where the deities are taken out in chariots. Attending this festival is a spiritual experience and an opportunity to witness the devotion and culture of Odisha.
2. Participate in Daily Rituals:
   The temple conducts several rituals throughout the day, from the early morning Mangala Aarti to the night-time Pahuda. Participating in these rituals or witnessing them is a way to experience the spiritual essence of the temple.
3. Visit the Gundicha Temple:
   Located about 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple, the Gundicha Temple is where the deities reside during the Rath Yatra. The temple is known as the ‘Garden House of Jagannath’ and is surrounded by lush gardens.
4. Explore the Puri Beach:
   Puri Beach is located close to the temple and is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists. The golden sands and the gentle waves of the Bay of Bengal make it an ideal place for relaxation. The beach is also famous for sand art, with artists often creating beautiful sculptures of deities and mythical figures.
5. Visit the Lokanath Temple:
   Another important temple in Puri, the Lokanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located about 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva resides here as a protector of the city.
6. Shop for Handicrafts and Souvenirs:
   The area around the Jagannath Temple is bustling with shops selling traditional Odia handicrafts, including Pattachitra paintings, applique work, and stone carvings. These items make for great souvenirs or gifts.
7. Taste Mahaprasad:
   The Mahaprasad, or holy food offered to Lord Jagannath, is a must-try for visitors. The prasadam is prepared in the temple kitchens, known as Rosaghara, and is available for purchase. The food is vegetarian and is cooked without the use of onions or garlic, in a manner that is believed to be sacred.

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1. Konark Sun Temple:
   Located about 35 kilometers from Puri, the Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of ancient architecture. The temple is shaped like a colossal chariot with intricately carved wheels and is dedicated to the Sun God. It is one of the most visited tourist spots near Puri.
2. Chilika Lake:
   Situated around 50 kilometers from Puri, Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. The lake is a paradise for bird watchers, especially during the winter when it becomes a haven for migratory birds. Boat rides on the lake offer a chance to see the birds and visit the Nalaban Island bird sanctuary.
3. Pipili:
   Pipili is a small town located about 40 kilometers from Puri, known for its vibrant applique work. The town is a great place to shop for traditional Odia handicrafts and textiles.
4. Raghurajpur Artist Village:
   Located about 14 kilometers from Puri, Raghurajpur is a heritage crafts village famous for Pattachitra paintings. Every house in this village is an artist’s studio, and visitors can watch the artisans at work and purchase exquisite pieces of art.
5. Bhubaneswar:
   The capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, is about 60 kilometers from Puri and is home to numerous ancient temples, including the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple. The city is also known for its vibrant culture and bustling markets.

Significance/History of Shri Jagannath Puri Temple

The Shri Jagannath Puri Temple holds immense significance in Hinduism and is one of the four Char Dhams, the other three being Badrinath, Dwarka, and Rameswaram. The temple’s history dates back to the 12th century, when it was built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, although the site itself has been a place of worship since ancient times.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is considered a form of Lord Vishnu, and his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. Unlike the typical stone idols, the deities in Jagannath Temple are made of wood and are replaced every 12 years in a ritual called Nabakalebara. This unique tradition sets the Jagannath Temple apart from other Hindu temples.

The annual Rath Yatra is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, symbolizing the journey of the deities to their aunt’s house. This event draws millions of devotees, who gather in Puri to participate in the pulling of the chariots. The festival is not only a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich heritage of Odisha.

The temple has also been a center of Vaishnavism and has played a pivotal role in spreading the teachings of Lord Jagannath. The rituals and traditions followed in the temple are deeply rooted in the ancient scriptures, and the temple itself has