The most famous tourist destination of the state. It is synonymous with Lord Jagannath & his siblings Lord Balabhadra & Goddess Subhadra. It’s one of the few destinations where one can combine religious salvation with fun & adventure. We will come to the later in a bit.
Though the temple architecture & the beach of Puri is well researched and part of folklore, the origin of Lord Jagannath is still shrouded in mystery. The most telling one is the passage on Sayana in Rig Veda which concluded that the history of Lord Jagannath is as old as the Rig Veda. Historically speaking Lord Jagannath can be predated to 2 century B.C. when Kharavela was the emperor of Kalinga. The history of Puri is well documented after the 15th century A.D. when Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited Puri and propounded the Govardhana matha and established Puri as the eastern dham.
It is said that Lord Vishnu bathes at Rameswaram, gets dressed and anointed at Dwarka, Meditates at Badrinath & lunches at Puri. Hence the food or Mahaprasada is of special significance & the kitchen fire is called Vaishnava Agni & is never put out.
According to the recently discovered copper plates from the Ganga dynasty, the construction of the temple was initiated during the reign of the then ruler of Kalinga - Anantavarman Chodaganga & was completed in its present form by King Ananga Bhima Deva.
Things to See
Aruna Stambha
A towering pillar around 11 meters high located at the Singhadwarattracts the first attention as one is about to enter the temple. Aruna is the charioteer of the Sun God and this pillar used to be part of the Sun Temple in Konark. However, it was relocated in the 18th century after the Sun temple was abandoned, in order to save it from invaders.
The Neelachakra (Blue Discuss)
Mounted on top of the temple is the most revered symbol of the Jagannath cult. Neelachakra is a disc with eight navagunjaras on the outer circumference each pointing towards the flag. The Neelachakra is made of an alloy of 8 metals called “asta dhatu”, the Neelachakra is different from the Sudarshan chakra which is placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple with the deities. The flag hoisted on the Neelachakra is called “Patitapabana” (purifier of the fallen) and is considered equivalent to the deities residing inside the temple. The flag is replaced every day at sunset between 6pm-7pm and is sold to a lucky devotee. The feet of changing the flag’s rests with two members of the Chola family who have been given exclusive rights to do this ritual by the king. They have been doing this ritual fearlessly for the last 800 years climbing 165 meters bare feet without any support on top of the temple to affix the new flag.
Bimala Temple
One of the four Adi Shakti Peetha’s of the country, it’s said that the feet of Sati fell here. Everything offered to Lord Jagannath has to first offered to Goddess Bimala. The Prasad (Holy food) offered to Lord Jagannath is certified as Mahaprasad only after it’s offered to Goddess Bimala. The temple according to Madala Paanji predates the Jagannath temple, when Puri was regarded as a Shakti Peetha before the Jagannath cult took over, the one we see today is believed to have been built in the 9th Century AD by Yayati Keshari- the Somavanshi Ruler, some of the sculptures may have been from the original temple. Goddess Bimala is worshipped as peaceful form of Shakti and is revered tantric seat. As per the Shakti Peetha tradition- the goddessis accompanied by Bhairav – a form of Lord Shiva- who is her consort. In Puri Lord Jagannath is Bhairav for Goddess Bimala. Thus in Tantric tradition, it is Vimala who is the guardian consort within the temple complex identified with the Goddesses Katyayini.
The presence of Jagannath temple and Goddess Bimala temple within the same premises also denotes the syncritisation of the Shaivite and the Vaishnavite sects
As per the tantric traditions- meat and fish were offered to the Goddess on a daily basis in what was otherwise a pure vegetarian premise. King Narasimha Deva abolished the practice of meat and fish offerings. However the practice was revived and the Goddess is offered meat and fish during the 16 day long Dussehra and the ritual of animal sacrifice is also conducted during that time.
Laxmi Temple
The other most important temple within the Jagmohan temple complex is the temple dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, his orthodox consort as per Jagannath traditions. The beautifully carved temple is located at the bayu kona (corner of the wind) within the premises. Devotees after paying their obeisance to the Goddess sit for while on the steps before proceeding to other parts of the shrine complex.
The Lords Kitchen
One can visit the Lord’s kitchen by buying a ticket worth Rs.5/-. The kitchen is situated in the South East direction of the Garbagriha for the records it’s the largest & biggest kitchen in the world. The length of the kitchen is 150 feet, breadth is 100 feet and height is about 20 feet. It consists of 32 rooms with 250 earthen ovens. Around 600 cooks and 400 assistants are responsible for preparing the Mahaprasada. A lot of legends is associated with this Kitchen adding to the mystic aura of Lord Jagannath -the first one is the Vaishnava Agni as mentioned earlier.
The other unique feature is that all the food is prepared in clay pots placed in a special earthen oven, five in numbers, one on the top of another. Yet the one on the top is cooked first
According to legend, it is believed that the Master Chef of this kitchen is Goddess Laxmi herself. If the food is not upto her standards, then a dog appears out of nowhere in the Kitchen (this even after dogs are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises). If the dog is seen in the kitchen premises, then the entire food is buried and prepared again. The dog is said to be an incarnation of Goddess Kutama Chandi- a tantric goddess in charge of purification of food in the Lords Kitchen.
There are three types of hearths in the kitchen of Srimandir such as Anna Chuli, Ahia Chuli and Pitha Chuli. The rectangular space created between two rice hearths is called Ahia. All types of dal are prepared in the Ahia Chuli. Anna Chuli as the name suggests is the place where all types of rice are prepared & Pitha Chuli is the oven where all types of pancakes are prepared.
The food is prepared with utmost care and love for the lord & that spirit permeates to devotees who consume the Mahaprasada.
Where to Stay
Like any other tourist spot in India…Puri has a lot of options on offer from low budget to high end hotels. But make sure you carry cash with you for room rents etc. Most of the hotel have swiping machines but it might not work some of the times & you would find an ATM outlet not far from wherever you are in Puri.
OTDC Panthanivas
Located right next to the beach at Chakratirtha road – offers very comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The USP of the hotel is that it’s located on the beach but away from the crowds. If you are looking for some quiet moments while still being close to the city this is the place to be. Breakfast is complimentary.
Check in – 10 am, Check out – 10 am
One can book online by logging onto the website – www.otdc.in.
Puri Hotel
Located on the Sea Beach Road of Puri, is one of the oldest hotels & best known hotels in the town- it is prized for its location- right next to the beach and bang on the centre of the most happening part of the town. The hotel has a whole variety of rooms to cater to needs from 10 bedded AC rooms to Suites and Non AC rooms. Most of the rooms are sea facing. They also provide free pick up & drop facility from the railway station. The hotel was a pretty good restaurant and offers good Bengali cuisine.
Check out time – 24 hours
To pick your choice rooms – log onto their website – www.purihotel.in
Phone – 06752 – 222114/ 223809
Fax – 06752- 222744
(M)- +91-8280259999
Email: - purihotel@purihotel.in
They also have a booking office in Kolkata
16K, Fern Road, 2nd Floor
Nr. Ballygunj Bus stand
Kolkata – 700019
Ph – 033-24612240 / 24612249
Fort Mahodadhi Resort
Located on the Sea Beach road near Swargadwar- Mahodadhi – means “The Great Sea”- this erstwhile summer place overlooking the Bay of Bengal was built by the Maharaja of Panchkot (Panchkot is a town located in Purulia district of West Bengal). It has been converted into a heritage hotel by the Kamat Group and is sought after for its beautiful palatial rooms, cuisine and location. Breakfast is complimentary.
Tariff: -
The Heritage hotel provides an option between cottages and rooms. We recommend you to go for the rooms instead. The rooms are plush, huge and very comfortable.
Check in – 8 am, Check out – 8 am
Ph – 06752- 220440 / 220880
(M) - 9090 093 414 / +91 9090093400
Email – gm@fortmahodadhi.in
Website: - www.mahodadhipalace.com
Toshali Sands
Located on the outskirts of Puri along the marine drive connecting Puri & Konark. The resort boasts of comfortable cottages and a private beach and has all the amenities for a leisurely stay. Distance from the railway station is 8KM.Breakfast is complimentary & the resort provides complimentary river cruises,
Check in – 10 am, Check out – 8 am
Ph – 0674 - 2547511 / 2547411
(M) - +91- 9937003223 / 18001234555 (Toll Free)
Email: - bbsr@toshali.in
Where to Eat
We will discount the Mahaprasada, because comparing or commenting on the Lords food is beyond the scope of a mere mortals like us.
However, Lord Jagannath true to his nature always gives space to others and Puri unlike other famous temples city offers a lot of variety when it comes to food. From pure vegetarian restaurants to Chinese food, Puri caters to every palate.
Agarwal’s Pure Veg Restaurant
If you prefer strict vegetarian food – we recommend Agarwal’s pure veg restaurant situated in the Grand Road- also known as Badadanda – same road that leads to the Jagannath Temple. Try the special thali & the masala dosa. The food is prepared without garlic and onion and is not oily and is reasonably priced.
There are other vegetarian hotels located in the vicinity of the temple too.
Wild Grass
Located on the VIP road this restaurant is a delight for fish lovers. Try the Mullet prepared with mustard (Odiya name Khaenga Besara), apart from the customary dishes of prawns, crabs and other varieties of fish. The dishes are reasonably priced and the ambience of the restaurant is very good too with small huts and a small water body. When going to Wild Grass be prepared to wait a bit for the food to arrive.
Lee Garden
What was a quaint little restaurant, started in 1975 by a Chinese gentleman Mr. S.S. Lee has grown today to be the most famous Chinese restaurant in Puri. The ownership rests with the descendants of Mr. Lee, who have converted it into a full-fledged hotel with rooms -which are quite comfortable and spacious and a bustling restaurant. The food is sumptuous, tasty and affordable. The interiors of the restaurant are tastefully done depicting the Chinese taste’s which adds to the ambience and flavour of the restaurant. The Gold coin prawn is a favorite dish amongst the regulars at this restaurant.
Dalma
Named after a popular Odiya dish- (yellow lentils cooled with vegetables and flavoured with spices) -Located on the VIP road serves Odiya cuisine, try the bamboo roasted mutton (locally called baunsha poda mutton) and various fish curries on offer. One can even get the famous Odiya dish Pakhala bhaata (rice fermented overnight with water, curd and other spices). The Pakhala bhaata thali on offer is quite good.
Bhojohori Manna
The famous Bengali restaurant chain has an outlet at Gopal Ballav road. Try out the signature dishes Dab chingri (Prawns served inside tender coconut shell), Mutton dakbangla (A mutton curry preparation), mango chutney, Posto. The space is a bit crowded so be prepared to wait for your turn. The staff is friendly and the ambience is good though the space is a bit a cramped.
Try out the local roadside food – if you are a fish lover for snacks. If you are lucky the vendor would have a freshly fried tuna or a bhetki on offer. But just ensure the fish or prawns is fresh.
Also there is a non-descript outlet at Chandanpur by the roadside located on the old road to Puri from Chandanpur- the outlet serves vegetarian fare. The main attraction is the grinded beaten rice (locally called chuda ghasa) and dalma as an accompaniment to the dish. if you love to experiment with new dishes go for it. But just be careful that the chuda ghasa is a pretty heavy dish. So ask the waiter specifically for low portion of it. Besides the chuda ghasa and dalma, the outlet serves very good vegetarian fare ...the aroma of the food reminds one of the Mahaprasada. The sweet dishes – rasaballi –it is essentially deep fried flattened reddish brown patties of chhena (farmer cheese) that are soaked in thickened, sweetened milk (rabri). Flattening the chhena into palm-sized patties is done in order to allow them to absorb the milk more readily. The thickened milk is also usually lightly seasoned with crushed cardamoms. If you intend to have chuda ghasa and dalma along with sweets go there in the evenings, so that you get freshly prepared dishes.
There are many roadside stalls which claim to be the original one…however the original one is a bigger shop and the most unique identification of the stall is that you will find two huge ram lamb died to a post in the front of the shop.
Essential Information
Puri – see’s tourists flocking all through the year. The weather of Puri is like any coastal town warm & humid during the day but pleasant and airy in the evenings. It rains pretty heavily here, so if you are planning to come during the rainy seasons, do carry your umbrellas and rain coat gears. Winters are moderate & are the best time to visit, a light jacket or a woolen would suffice.
The temperature varies from 24 degrees Celsius to 39 degrees Celsius in the summers & varies from 17 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius in the winters, during the rainy season the temperature is hovers around 25 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius.
Puri is the terminal station of the East Coast Railways and is well connected with the station hosting over 92 trains every day.
The Nearest Airport- Bhubaneswar Airport- Puri is 60KM from the airport & is well connected with a 4 lane highway.
When visiting the temple …keep enough small change, denomination ranging from Rs.10/- note to Rs.50/-, it will be easier to tip off the panda’s and other places where you might not want to but pay under compulsion.
Normally Puri is a safe place but still avoid going to secluded spots at the beach especially after 8pm.
People of Puri are used to tourists; they can converse in English, Hindi, Bengali apart from Odiya.
For adventure seekers-places around Puri provides a thrilling experience of being one with the nature. One can rent a bicycle for approximate- Rs.100/ day or rent a bike for approximately Rs. 200 to Rs 500/- (depending on the category of the two wheeler) + Petrol per day
Basic Information | Puri – see’s tourists flocking all through the year. The weather of Puri is like any coastal town warm & humid during the day but pleasant and airy in the evenings. It rains pretty heavily here, so if you are planning to come during the rainy seasons, do carry your umbrellas and rain coat gears. Winters are moderate & are the best time to visit, a light jacket or a woolen would suffice. | The temperature varies from 24 degrees Celsius to 39 degrees Celsius in the summers & varies from 17 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius in the winters, during the rainy season the temperature is hovers around 25 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. |
|---|---|---|
How to get there | Puri is the terminal station of the East Coast Railways and is well connected with the station hosting over 92 trains every day. | The Nearest Airport- Bhubaneswar Airport- Puri is 60KM from the airport & is well connected with a 4 lane highway. |
Safety & Communication | Normally Puri is a safe place but still avoid going to secluded spots at the beach especially after 8pm. | People of Puri are used to tourists; they can converse in English, Hindi, Bengali apart from Odiya. |
Anything Else | For adventure seekers-places around Puri provides a thrilling experience of being one with the nature. One can rent a bicycle for approximate- Rs.100/ day or rent a bike for approximately Rs. 200 to Rs 500/- (depending on the category of the two wheeler) + Petrol per day | |