The Jagannath Puri Temple, also known as the Shri Mandir, is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The temple, situated in the coastal town of Puri in the state of Odisha, India, is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and is a part of the Char Dham yatra.
History of Jagannath Puri Temple
The current temple structure dates back to the 12th century and was constructed by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. However, the temple’s origin is steeped in mythology, with many believing that the temple was originally erected by King Indradyumna, a legendary figure from the Puranas.
Where is Jagannath Puri Temple?
Jagannath Puri Temple is located in the coastal city of Puri in the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated on the eastern coast of India, overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Best Time to Travel to Jagannath Puri Temple
The best time to visit the Jagannath Puri Temple is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing. However, for those wishing to witness the grandeur of the Rath Yatra festival, a trip in June or July is recommended.
How to Reach Jagannath Puri Temple? | Various Ways to Reach Jagannath Puri Temple?
| Mode | Route | Distance | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport is the nearest airport | Approximately 60 km from Puri | Approximately 1.5 hours by road | Varies depending on departure location |
| Train | Puri has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across India | – | Varies depending on departure location | Varies depending on class of travel and departure location |
| Road | Puri is connected by road to cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack | – | Varies depending on departure location | Varies depending on mode of road transport |
Why is Jagannath Puri Temple Famous?
Jagannath Puri Temple is renowned for its annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, which attracts millions of devotees and tourists from around the world. The festival involves the procession of the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra in gigantic, ornately decorated chariots.
Major Attractions & Tourist Places Around Jagannath Puri Temple
Apart from the Jagannath Temple, Puri boasts other attractions like the golden sandy Puri Beach, Gundicha Temple, and the Sunara Gaurang Temple. The nearby Chilika Lake and Konark Sun Temple are also popular tourist destinations.
Road distance between Jagannath Puri Temple and these places?
- Bhubaneswar – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 67 km
- Cuttack – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 91 km
- Kolkata – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 502 km
- Hyderabad – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,111 km
- Delhi – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,752 km
- Mumbai – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,772 km
- Bengaluru – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,521 km
- Chennai – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,195 km
- Ahmedabad – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,893 km
- Jaipur – Puri (Jagannath Puri Temple): 1,745 km
12 Months Temperature Data in Puri
| Month | Average Temperature(°C) |
|---|---|
| January | 17 |
| February | 22 |
| March | 26 |
| April | 29 |
| May | 30 |
| June | 30 |
| July | 28 |
| August | 28 |
| September | 28 |
| October | 26 |
| November | 22 |
| December | 18 |
Related FAQ
Can non-Hindus enter the Jagannath Temple?
Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the Jagannath Temple.
When does the Rath Yatra take place?
The Rath Yatra typically takes place in June or July, with the exact dates varying each year according to the Hindu calendar.
Are there any specific rituals to follow in the temple?
Yes, devotees usually perform a ritual known as ‘Parikrama’ (circumambulation) and participate in the daily aartis (prayer services).