Puri is one of the four most important religious centers of the Hindus. It is believed that it was once inhabited by Sabaras (Pre Aryan and pre Dravidian tribes).

The car festival(the Rath-Yatra) that takes place in June -July has given the English language the word “Juggernaut” in view of the massive size of the chariot carrying the deity, Lord Jagannath, the lord of the universe. The temple attracts pilgrim by the thousands throughout the year.

Puri is also a sea resort and a large number of beach hotels have come up in recent years of a wide price-range, making it an attractive holiday destination.

WHAT TO SEE:

BEACHES:
Puri’s golden sand are slightly lesser known than its Jagannatha temple. Miles and miles of sand, blue water of the bay of Bengal, the silver surf breaking on the beaches-the sun, the sea and sand. It’s a rejuvenating experience.

JAGANNATH TEMPLE:
The 65 meters high temple built in the typical Kalinga style of architecture dominates the town visually and spiritually. The temple was constructed in the 12TH century during the reign of the Chodaganga Deva. Within the precincts are other shrines developed to Vimala, Vishnu and Lakshmi. Ananda Bazar a large foods market is another attraction.Entry to the temple is restricted to Hindus only.

GUNDICHA GHAR:
On the Garden House is a much smaller sanctum where the deities from the main Jagannath Temple are brought for a Sojourn of one week during the Rath Yatra festival. It is also known as Lord Jagannath’s aunt’s house.

EXCURSIONS:

SHASHI GOPAL:
A temple devoted to Gopal, the child Krishna, has a beautiful life-size image. The legend relates that when Gopal came here regarding a dispute between two Brahmins, he fell in love with the place and hence the temple.

CHILIKA LAKE:
Nestling in the heart of coastal Orissa, the 100 sq. km lagoon is connected t the bay of Bengal by a narrow mouth. Chilika is the largest inland lake in India. Dotted with numerous islands, which have been given very colorful names such as Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, the lake is rich in aquatic fauna and migratory bird species.

STANDARD SIGHTSEEING TOURS:
Half day sightseeing visiting the place of pilgrimage for the Hindus. The renowned Jagnnath Temple built in the 15th century A.D. and crowned with Vishnu’s wheel and flag dominate the elaborate carving and mouldings are very fine examples of Orissa architecture.

(Note: - Non Hindus are not allowed inside the temple)
Excursion to Konark (64 km.) to see the beautiful sun temple built in the 13th century in honor of the Sun God, containing exquisite carvings, the life size Lions and Elephants Collosal, figures of Warriors on horse, scenes of Battle and the chase-all carved with great imagination and skill, testify of the high standard of ancient Indian art and engineering skill.