About Jagannath Temple, Puri

Jagannath Temple, Puri: An important Hindu temple honoring Lord Jagannath, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, is located in Puri, Odisha, India. It is known as the Jagannath Temple. It was reconstructed in the 10th century after being originally constructed by King Indradyumna of Avanti. It is famous for hosting the annual Ratha Yatra celebration, which draws millions of worshippers from India and around the world. A dress code has lately been enforced by the temple administration, mandating guests to wear “decent clothes” such kurta-pyjamas, dhotis, sarees, and salwar kameez.

History of Jagannath Temple, Puri

The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, India, is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world. It is dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu. The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th century CE by King Anantavarman Chodaganga of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. However, the deities within the shrine are believed to be much older.

According to legend, the temple was built on the site where King Indrayumna of Avanti had a vision of Vishnu. Indrayumna was instructed to build a temple and install the image of Vishnu that he had seen in his vision. However, Indrayumna was unable to find the image. He prayed to Vishnu for guidance, and Vishnu appeared to him in the form of a blue stone. Indrayumna then built a temple and installed the blue stone image of Vishnu, which became known as Nilamadhava.

The Jagannath Temple is a massive complex that covers an area of over 400,000 square feet. The main temple is a four-sided structure with a height of over 190 feet. The temple is surrounded by a high wall and has four gates. The most important gate is the eastern gate, which is known as the Lion’s Gate.

The Jagannath Temple is home to three main deities: Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. Jagannath is a form of Vishnu, Balabhadra is his brother, and Subhadra is his sister. The deities are represented by three wooden images that are carved in a unique style. The images are replaced every 12 years in a ceremony known as the Nabakalebara.

The Jagannath Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India. Millions of Hindus from all over the world visit the temple every year. The temple is also known for its annual Rath Yatra festival, in which the three deities are taken out of the temple and placed on chariots that are pulled through the streets of Puri.

The Jagannath Temple has a long and rich history. It has been invaded and plundered by many different rulers over the centuries, but it has always been rebuilt and restored. The temple is a symbol of the resilience and faith of the Hindu people.

How do I reach Jagannath Temple, Puri

Puri is easily accessible by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, 60 km away. Puri is well-connected to major Indian cities via direct trains from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Lucknow 2.

Best time to visit Jagannath Temple, Puri

Jagannath Temple, Puri is best visited between October and February when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 26°C to 18°C. Avoid visiting during the summer months of April, May, and June as they can be quite hot. The information provided is hoped to help you plan your visit to Jagannath Temple, Puri.

Tourist attractions near Jagannath Temple, Puri

There are several tourist attractions near Jagannath Temple, Puri. Here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Puri Beach: Puri Beach is a well-liked tourist site with sparkling waves and golden beach that is located 2.3 miles from Jagannath Temple.
2. Konark Sun Temple: Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 20 miles from Puri, is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and architectural marvels.
3. Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake, located 30 miles from Puri, is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and home to diverse migratory birds and aquatic animals.
4. Raghurajpur Artist Village: Raghurajpur Artist Village, situated 5 miles from Jagannath Temple, is renowned for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and handicrafts.

Hotels near Jagannath Temple, Puri

hotels near Shree Jagannatha Temple Puri:

1. Hotel Agrawal Pride (300mtrs from Jagannath Temple,Puri) – ₹1,470 per night.
2. Hotel Jagannath Darshan – ₹1,485 per night.
3. Jagannath Ballav Bhakta Niwas – ₹1,163 per night.
4. Hotel ShreehariGrand – ₹2,273 per night.
5. Hare Krushna Lodge – ₹930 per night.

You can also check other hotels near Jagannath Temple in Puri on websites like TripAdvisor, Hotel Jagannath Darshan, MakeMyTrip.com and Goibibo.com.